Job 36:22

Authorized King James Version

Behold, God exalteth by his power: who teacheth like him?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֶן

H2005

lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if

אֵ֭ל

H410

Behold God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

יַשְׂגִּ֣יב

H7682

exalteth

to be (causatively, make) lofty, especially inaccessible; by implication, safe, strong; used literally and figuratively

בְּכֹח֑וֹ

H3581

by his power

vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)

מִ֖י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

כָמֹ֣הוּ

H3644

as, thus, so

מוֹרֶֽה׃

H3384

who teacheth

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?