Job 37:21

Authorized King James Version

And now men see not the bright light which is in the clouds: but the wind passeth, and cleanseth them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֤ה׀
H6258
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
לֹ֘א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
רָ֤אוּ
H7200
And now men see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#4
א֗וֹר
H216
light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#5
בָּהִ֣יר
H925
not the bright
shining
#6
ה֭וּא
H1931
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#7
בַּשְּׁחָקִ֑ים
H7834
which is in the clouds
a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
#8
וְר֥וּחַ
H7307
but the wind
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#9
עָ֝בְרָ֗ה
H5674
passeth
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#10
וַֽתְּטַהֲרֵֽם׃
H2891
and cleanseth
to be pure (physical sound, clear, unadulterated; levitically, uncontaminated; morally, innocent or holy)

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

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