Job 29:21

Authorized King James Version

Unto me men gave ear, and waited, and kept silence at my counsel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִֽי
H0
#2
שָׁמְע֥וּ
Unto me men gave ear
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#3
וְיִחֵ֑לּוּ
and waited
to wait; by implication, to be patient, hope
#4
וְ֝יִדְּמ֗וּ
and kept silence
to be dumb; by implication, to be astonished, to stop; also to perish
#5
לְמ֣וֹ
at
to or for
#6
עֲצָתִֽי׃
my counsel
advice; by implication, plan; also prudence

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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