Job 31:6

Authorized King James Version

Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִשְׁקְלֵ֥נִי
Let me be weighed
to suspend or poise (especially in trade)
#2
בְמֹאזְנֵי
balance
(only in the dual) a pair of scales
#3
צֶ֑דֶק
in an even
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
#4
וְיֵדַ֥ע
may know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
אֱ֝ל֗וֹהַּ
that God
a deity or the deity
#6
תֻּמָּתִֽי׃
mine integrity
innocence

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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