Job 28:24

For he looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven;

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ה֭וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

לִקְצוֹת

H7098

to the ends

a termination

הָאָ֣רֶץ

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

יַבִּ֑יט

H5027

For he looketh

to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care

תַּ֖חַת

H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַשָּׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

under the whole heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

יִרְאֶֽה׃

H7200

and seeth

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?