Job 32:21

Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

נָ֭א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

אֶשָּׂ֣א

H5375

Let me not I pray you accept

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

פְנֵי

H6440

person

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

אִ֑ישׁ

H376

any man's

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אָ֝דָ֗ם

H120

unto man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אֲכַנֶּֽה׃

H3655

neither let me give flattering titles

to address by an additional name; hence, to eulogize

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?