Job 3:16

Authorized King James Version

Or as an hidden untimely birth I had not been; as infants which never saw light.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
א֤וֹ
H176
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#2
כְנֵ֣פֶל
H5309
untimely birth
something fallen, i.e., an abortion
#3
טָ֭מוּן
H2934
Or as an hidden
to hide (by covering over)
#4
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#6
כְּ֝עֹֽלְלִ֗ים
H5768
I had not been as infants
a suckling
#7
לֹא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
רָ֥אוּ
H7200
which never saw
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#9
אֽוֹר׃
H216
light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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