Job 32:9

Authorized King James Version

Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
רַבִּ֥ים
Great men
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#3
יֶחְכָּ֑מוּ
are not always wise
to be wise (in mind, word or act)
#4
וּ֝זְקֵנִ֗ים
neither do the aged
old
#5
יָבִ֥ינוּ
understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#6
מִשְׁפָּֽט׃
judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Job Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection