Job 21:6

Even when I remember I am afraid, and trembling taketh hold on my flesh.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

זָכַ֥רְתִּי

H2142

Even when I remember

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

וְנִבְהָ֑לְתִּי

H926

I am afraid

to tremble inwardly (or palpitate), i.e., (figuratively) be (causative, make) (suddenly) alarmed or agitated; by implication to hasten anxiously

וְאָחַ֥ז

H270

taketh hold on

to seize (often with the accessory idea of holding in possession)

בְּ֝שָׂרִ֗י

H1320

my flesh

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

פַּלָּצֽוּת׃

H6427

and trembling

affright

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?