Job 37:18

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou with him spread out the sky, which is strong, and as a molten looking glass?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּרְקִ֣יעַ
Hast thou with him spread out
to pound the earth (as a sign of passion); by analogy to expand (by hammering); by implication, to overlay (with thin sheets of metal)
#2
עִ֭מּוֹ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#3
לִשְׁחָקִ֑ים
the sky
a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
#4
חֲ֝זָקִ֗ים
which is strong
strong (usu. in a bad sense, hard, bold, violent)
#5
כִּרְאִ֥י
looking glass
a mirror (as seen)
#6
מוּצָֽק׃
and as a molten
properly, to pour out (transitive or intransitive); by implication, to melt or cast as metal; by extension, to place firmly, to stiffen or grow hard

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