Job 35:16

Authorized King James Version

Therefore doth Job open his mouth in vain; he multiplieth words without knowledge.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְ֭אִיּוֹב
Therefore doth Job
ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience
#2
הֶ֣בֶל
in vain
emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
#3
יִפְצֶה
open
to rend, i.e., open (especially the mouth)
#4
פִּ֑יהוּ
his mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#5
בִּבְלִי
without
properly, failure, i.e., nothing or destruction; usually (with preposition) without, not yet, because not, as long as, etc
#6
דַ֝֗עַת
knowledge
knowledge
#7
מִלִּ֥ין
words
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
#8
יַכְבִּֽר׃
he multiplieth
properly, to plait together, i.e., (figuratively) to augment (especially in number or quantity, to accumulate)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection