Job 22:2

Authorized King James Version

Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַלְאֵ֥ל
unto God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#2
יִסְכֹּ֖ן
be profitable
to be familiar with; by implication, to minister to, be serviceable to, to cherish, be customary
#3
גָּ֑בֶר
Can a man
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
#4
כִּֽי
as
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
יִסְכֹּ֖ן
be profitable
to be familiar with; by implication, to minister to, be serviceable to, to cherish, be customary
#6
עָלֵ֣ימוֹ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
מַשְׂכִּֽיל׃
he that is wise
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection