Job 26:7

Authorized King James Version

He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נֹטֶ֣ה
He stretcheth out
to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)
#2
צָפ֣וֹן
the north
properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
תֹּ֑הוּ
over the empty place
a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain
#5
תֹּ֥לֶה
and hangeth
to suspend (especially to gibbet)
#6
אֶ֝֗רֶץ
the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
בְּלִי
upon nothing
(as indefinitely) nothing whatever
#9
מָֽה׃
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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