Job 3:11

Authorized King James Version

Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָ֤מָּה
H4100
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#2
לֹּ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
מֵרֶ֣חֶם
H7358
I not from the womb
the womb
#4
אָמ֑וּת
H4191
Why died
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#5
מִבֶּ֖טֶן
H990
of the belly
the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything
#6
יָצָ֣אתִי
H3318
when I came out
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#7
וְאֶגְוָֽע׃
H1478
why did I not give up the ghost
to breathe out, i.e., (by implication) expire

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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