Job 21:7

Authorized King James Version

Wherefore do the wicked live, become old, yea, are mighty in power?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַדּ֣וּעַ
what (is) known?; i.e., (by implication) (adverbially) why?
#2
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
Wherefore do the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
יִחְי֑וּ
live
to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive
#4
עָ֝תְק֗וּ
become old
to remove (intransitive or transitive) figuratively, to grow old; specifically, to transcribe
#5
גַּם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#6
גָּ֥בְרוּ
yea are mighty
to be strong; by implication, to prevail, act insolently
#7
חָֽיִל׃
in power
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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