Job 36:30

Authorized King James Version

Behold, he spreadeth his light upon it, and covereth the bottom of the sea.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
פָּרַ֣שׂ
Behold he spreadeth
to break apart, disperse, etc
#3
עָלָ֣יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
אוֹר֑וֹ
his light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#5
וְשָׁרְשֵׁ֖י
the bottom
a root (literally or figuratively)
#6
הַיָּ֣ם
of the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#7
כִּסָּֽה׃
upon it and covereth
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

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 divine revelation 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

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection