Job 22:9

Authorized King James Version

Thou hast sent widows away empty, and the arms of the fatherless have been broken.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֭לְמָנוֹת
widows
a widow; also a desolate place
#2
שִׁלַּ֣חְתָּ
Thou hast sent
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#3
רֵיקָ֑ם
away empty
emptily; figuratively (objective) ineffectually, (subjective) undeservedly
#4
וּזְרֹע֖וֹת
and the arms
the arm (as stretched out), or (of animals) the foreleg; figuratively, force
#5
יְתֹמִ֣ים
of the fatherless
a bereaved person
#6
יְדֻכָּֽא׃
have been broken
to crumble; transitively, to bruise (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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