Job 33:8

Authorized King James Version

Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֭ךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#2
אָמַ֣רְתָּ
Surely thou hast spoken
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
בְאָזְנָ֑י
in mine hearing
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)
#4
וְק֖וֹל
the voice
a voice or sound
#5
מִלִּ֣ין
of thy words
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
#6
אֶשְׁמָֽע׃
and I have heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

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