Job 24:23

Authorized King James Version

Though it be given him to be in safety, whereon he resteth; yet his eyes are upon their ways.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִתֶּן
Though it be given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
ל֣וֹ
H0
#3
לָ֭בֶטַח
him to be in safety
properly, a place of refuge; abstract, safety, both the fact (security) and the feeling (trust); often (adverb with or without preposition) safely
#4
וְיִשָּׁעֵ֑ן
whereon he resteth
to support one's self
#5
וְ֝עֵינֵ֗יהוּ
yet his eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
דַּרְכֵיהֶֽם׃
are upon their ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection