Job 20:28

The increase of his house shall depart, and his goods shall flow away in the day of his wrath.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִ֭גֶל

H1540

shall depart

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

יְב֣וּל

H2981

The increase

produce, i.e., a crop or (figuratively) wealth

בֵּית֑וֹ

H1004

of his house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

נִ֝גָּר֗וֹת

H5064

and his goods shall flow away

to flow; figuratively, to stretch out; causatively, to pour out or down; figuratively, to deliver over

בְּי֣וֹם

H3117

in the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

אַפּֽוֹ׃

H639

of his wrath

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?