Job 27:20

Authorized King James Version

Terrors take hold on him as waters, a tempest stealeth him away in the night.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּשִּׂיגֵ֣הוּ
take hold
to reach (literally or figuratively)
#2
כַ֭מַּיִם
on him as waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#3
בַּלָּה֑וֹת
Terrors
alarm; hence, destruction
#4
לַ֝֗יְלָה
in the night
properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity
#5
גְּנָבַ֥תּוּ
stealeth him away
to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive
#6
סוּפָֽה׃
a tempest
a hurricane

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection