Job 27:23

Authorized King James Version

Men shall clap their hands at him, and shall hiss him out of his place.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִשְׂפֹּ֣ק
Men shall clap
to clap the hands (in token of compact, derision, grief, indignation, or punishment); by implication of satisfaction, to be enough; by implication of
#2
עָלֵ֣ימוֹ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
כַפֵּ֑ימוֹ
their hands
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
#4
וְיִשְׁרֹ֥ק
at him and shall hiss
properly, to be shrill, i.e., to whistle or hiss (as a call or in scorn)
#5
עָ֝לָ֗יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
מִמְּקֹמֽוֹ׃
him out of his place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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