Job 24:8

Authorized King James Version

They are wet with the showers of the mountains, and embrace the rock for want of a shelter.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִזֶּ֣רֶם
with the showers
a gush of water
#2
הָרִ֣ים
of the mountains
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#3
יִרְטָ֑בוּ
They are wet
to be moist
#4
וּֽמִבְּלִ֥י
properly, failure, i.e., nothing or destruction; usually (with preposition) without, not yet, because not, as long as, etc
#5
מַ֝חְסֶ֗ה
for want of a shelter
a shelter (literally or figuratively)
#6
חִבְּקוּ
and embrace
to clasp (the hands or in embrace)
#7
צֽוּר׃
the rock
properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge; also an edge (as precipitous)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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