Job 36:21

Authorized King James Version

Take heed, regard not iniquity: for this hast thou chosen rather than affliction.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִ֭שָּׁמֶר
Take heed
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#2
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#3
תֵּ֣פֶן
regard
to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
אָ֑וֶן
not iniquity
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
זֶ֝֗ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#9
בָּחַ֥רְתָּ
for this hast thou chosen
properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select
#10
מֵעֹֽנִי׃
rather than affliction
depression, i.e., misery

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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