Job 34:10

Authorized King James Version

Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָכֵ֤ן׀
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
אַ֥נֲשֵׁ֥י
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)
#3
לֵבָ֗ב
of understanding
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#4
שִׁמְע֫וּ
Therefore hearken
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#5
לִ֥י
H0
#6
חָלִ֖לָה
far be it
literal for a profaned thing; used (interj.) far be it!
#7
לָאֵ֥ל
from God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#8
מֵרֶ֗שַׁע
that he should do wickedness
a wrong (especially moral)
#9
וְשַׁדַּ֥י
and from the Almighty
the almighty
#10
מֵעָֽוֶל׃
that he should commit iniquity
(moral) evil

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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