Job 32:1

Authorized King James Version

So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽיִּשְׁבְּת֡וּ

H7673

ceased

to repose, i.e., desist from exertion; used in many implied relations (causative, figurative or specific)

שְׁלֹ֤שֶׁת

H7969

So these three

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

הָאֲנָשִׁ֣ים

H582

men

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

הָ֭אֵלֶּה

H428

these or those

מֵעֲנ֣וֹת

H6030

to answer

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

אִיּ֑וֹב

H347

Job

ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

ה֖וּא

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

#10

צַדִּ֣יק

H6662

because he was righteous

just

#11

בְּעֵינָֽיו׃

H5869

in his own eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?