Job 24:5

Authorized King James Version

Behold, as wild asses in the desert, go they forth to their work; rising betimes for a prey: the wilderness yieldeth food for them and for their children.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵ֤ן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
פְּרָאִ֨ים׀
Behold as wild asses
the onager
#3
בַּֽמִּדְבָּ֗ר
in the desert
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#4
יָצְא֣וּ
go they forth
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#5
בְּ֭פָעֳלָם
to their work
an act or work (concretely)
#6
מְשַׁחֲרֵ֣י
rising betimes
properly, to dawn, i.e., (figuratively) be (up) early at any task (with the implication of earnestness); by extension, to search for (with painstaking
#7
לַטָּ֑רֶף
for a prey
something torn, i.e., a fragment, e.g., a fresh leaf, prey, food
#8
עֲרָבָ֥ה
the wilderness
a desert; especially (with the article prefix) the (generally) sterile valley of the jordan and its continuation to the red sea
#9
ל֥וֹ
H0
#10
לֶ֝֗חֶם
yieldeth food
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#11
לַנְּעָרִֽים׃
for them and for their children
(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit

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