Job 27:6

Authorized King James Version

My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach me so long as I live.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּצִדְקָתִ֣י
My righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#2
הֶ֭חֱזַקְתִּי
I hold
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#3
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
אַרְפֶּ֑הָ
fast and will not let it go
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
#5
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
יֶחֱרַ֥ף
shall not reproach
to pull off, i.e., (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e., defame;
#7
לְ֝בָבִ֗י
my heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#8
מִיָּמָֽי׃
me so long as I live
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of righteousness 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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