Job 20:22

Authorized King James Version

In the fulness of his sufficiency he shall be in straits: every hand of the wicked shall come upon him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בִּמְלֹ֣אות

H4390

In the fulness

to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)

שִׂ֭פְקוֹ

H5607

of his sufficiency

chastisement; also satiety

יֵ֣צֶר

H3334

he shall be in straits

to press (intransitive), i.e., be narrow; figuratively, be in distress

ל֑וֹ

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

יַ֖ד

H3027

every hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

עָמֵ֣ל

H6001

of the wicked

toiling; concretely, a laborer; figuratively, sorrowful

תְּבֹאֶֽנּוּ׃

H935

shall come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Job Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?