Job 34:26

Authorized King James Version

He striketh them as wicked men in the open sight of others;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּֽחַת
them as
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#2
רְשָׁעִ֥ים
wicked men
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
סְפָקָ֗ם
He striketh
to clap the hands (in token of compact, derision, grief, indignation, or punishment); by implication of satisfaction, to be enough; by implication of
#4
בִּמְק֥וֹם
in the open
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#5
רֹאִֽים׃
sight
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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