Job 26:4

To whom hast thou uttered words? and whose spirit came from thee?

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֶת

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

מִ֭י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

הִגַּ֣דְתָּ

H5046

To whom hast thou uttered

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

מִלִּ֑ין

H4405

words

a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic

וְנִשְׁמַת

H5397

and whose spirit

a puff, i.e., wind, angry or vital breath, divine inspiration, intellect. or (concretely) an animal

מִ֝י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

יָצְאָ֥ה

H3318

came

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

מִמֶּֽךָּ׃

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 26 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?