Job 33:27

Authorized King James Version

He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not;

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָשֹׁ֤ר׀

H7789

He looketh

to spy out, i.e., (generally) survey, (for evil) lurk for, (for good) care for

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

אֲנָשִׁ֗ים

H582

upon men

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

וַיֹּ֗אמֶר

H559

and if any say

to say (used with great latitude)

חָ֭טָאתִי

H2398

I have sinned

properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn

וְיָשָׁ֥ר

H3477

that which was right

straight (literally or figuratively)

הֶעֱוֵ֗יתִי

H5753

and perverted

to crook, literally or figuratively

וְלֹא

H3808

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

שָׁ֥וָה

H7737

and it profited

properly, to level, i.e., equalize; figuratively, to resemble; by implication, to adjust (i.e., counterbalance, be suitable, compose, place, yield, et

#10

לִֽי׃

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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

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

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?
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?
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?