Job 28:17

Authorized King James Version

The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יַעַרְכֶ֣נָּה

H6186

cannot equal

to set in a row, i.e., arrange, put in order (in a very wide variety of applications)

זָ֭הָב

H2091

The gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

וּזְכוֹכִ֑ית

H2137

and the crystal

properly, transparency, i.e., glass

וּתְמ֖וּרָתָ֣הּ

H8545

it and the exchange

barter, compensation

כְּלִי

H3627

of it shall not be for jewels

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

פָֽז׃

H6337

of fine gold

pure (gold); hence, gold itself (as refined)

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

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?