Job 33:6

Authorized King James Version

Behold, I am according to thy wish in God's stead: I also am formed out of the clay.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
אֲנִ֣י
i
#3
כְפִ֣יךָ
Behold I am according to thy wish
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#4
לָאֵ֑ל
in God's
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#5
מֵ֝חֹ֗מֶר
out of the clay
properly, a bubbling up, i.e., of water, a wave; hence, a chomer or dry measure
#6
קֹרַ֥צְתִּי
stead I also am formed
to pinch, i.e., (partially) to bite the lips, blink the eyes (as a gesture of malice), or (fully) to squeeze off (a piece of clay in order to mould a
#7
גַם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#8
אָֽנִי׃
i

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 sovereignty 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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