Job 31:20

Authorized King James Version

If his loins have not blessed me, and if he were not warmed with the fleece of my sheep;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִם
H518
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
בֵרֲכ֣וּנִי
H1288
have not blessed
to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as
#4
חֲלָצָ֑ו
H2504
If his loins
the loins (as the seat of vigor)
#5
וּמִגֵּ֥ז
H1488
with the fleece
a fleece (as shorn); also mown grass
#6
כְּ֝בָשַׂי
H3532
of my sheep
a ram (just old enough to butt)
#7
יִתְחַמָּֽם׃
H2552
me and if he were not warmed
to be hot (literally or figuratively)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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