Job 26:12

Authorized King James Version

He divideth the sea with his power, and by his understanding he smiteth through the proud.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭כֹחוֹ
with his power
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
#2
רָגַ֣ע
He divideth
properly, to toss violently and suddenly (the sea with waves, the skin with boils); figuratively (in a favorable manner) to settle, i.e., quiet; speci
#3
הַיָּ֑ם
the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#4
וּ֝בִתְובֻנָת֗וֹ
and by his understanding
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice
#5
מָ֣חַץ
he smiteth
to dash asunder; by implication, to crush, smash or violently plunge; figuratively, to subdue or destroy
#6
רָֽהַב׃
through the proud
bluster(-er)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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