Job 22:12

Authorized King James Version

Is not God in the height of heaven? and behold the height of the stars, how high they are!

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲֽלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אֱ֭לוֹהַּ

H433

Is not God

a deity or the deity

גֹּ֣בַהּ

H1363

in the height

elation, grandeur, arrogance

שָׁמָ֑יִם

H8064

of heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וּרְאֵ֤ה

H7200

and behold

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

רֹ֖אשׁ

H7218

the height

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

כּוֹכָבִ֣ים

H3556

of the stars

a star (as round or as shining); figuratively, a prince

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

רָֽמּוּ׃

H7311

how high

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

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 sovereignty 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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?