Job 28:22

Authorized King James Version

Destruction and death say, We have heard the fame thereof with our ears.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲבַדּ֣וֹן
H11
Destruction
abstract, a perishing; concrete, hades
#2
וָ֭מָוֶת
and death
death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
#3
אָ֣מְר֑וּ
say
to say (used with great latitude)
#4
בְּ֝אָזְנֵ֗ינוּ
thereof with our ears
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)
#5
שָׁמַ֥עְנוּ
We have heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#6
שִׁמְעָֽהּ׃
the fame
something heard, i.e., a sound, rumor, announcement; abstractly, audience

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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