Job 21:18

Authorized King James Version

They are as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carrieth away.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִהְי֗וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

כְּתֶ֥בֶן

H8401

They are as stubble

properly, material, i.e., (specifically) refuse haum or stalks of grain (as chopped in threshing and used for fodder)

לִפְנֵי

H6440

before

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

ר֑וּחַ

H7307

the wind

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

וּ֝כְמֹ֗ץ

H4671

and as chaff

chaff (as pressed out, i.e., winnowed or (rather) threshed loose)

גְּנָבַ֥תּוּ

H1589

carrieth away

to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive

סוּפָֽה׃

H5492

that the storm

a hurricane

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?