Job 36:20

Authorized King James Version

Desire not the night, when people are cut off in their place.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תִּשְׁאַ֥ף
Desire
to inhale eagerly; figuratively, to cover; by implication, to be angry; also to hasten
#3
הַלָּ֑יְלָה
not the night
properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity
#4
לַעֲל֖וֹת
are cut off
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#5
עַמִּ֣ים
when people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#6
תַּחְתָּֽם׃
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection