Job 29:9

Authorized King James Version

The princes refrained talking, and laid their hand on their mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שָׂ֭רִים
The princes
a head person (of any rank or class)
#2
עָצְר֣וּ
refrained
to inclose; by analogy, to hold back; also to maintain, rule, assemble
#3
בְמִלִּ֑ים
talking
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
#4
וְ֝כַ֗ף
their hand
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
#5
יָשִׂ֥ימוּ
and laid
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#6
לְפִיהֶֽם׃
on their mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

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