Job 31:28

This also were an iniquity to be punished by the judge: for I should have denied the God that is above.

Word-by-Word Analysis

גַּם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

ה֭וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

עָוֹ֣ן

H5771

This also were an iniquity

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

פְּלִילִ֑י

H6416

to be punished by the judge

judicial

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כִחַ֖שְׁתִּי

H3584

for I should have denied

to be untrue, in word (to lie, feign, disown) or deed (to disappoint, fail, cringe)

לָאֵ֣ל

H410

the God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

מִמָּֽעַל׃

H4605

that is above

properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 31 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?