Job 35:2

Authorized King James Version

Thinkest thou this to be right, that thou saidst, My righteousness is more than God's?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֲ֭זֹאת
this (often used adverb)
#2
חָשַׁ֣בְתָּ
Thinkest
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
#3
לְמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
thou this to be right
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#4
אָ֝מַ֗רְתָּ
that thou saidst
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
צִדְקִ֥י
My righteousness
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
#6
מֵאֵֽל׃
is more than God's
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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