Job 37:22

Authorized King James Version

Fair weather cometh out of the north: with God is terrible majesty.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִ֭צָּפוֹן
out of the north
properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)
#2
זָהָ֣ב
Fair weather
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#3
יֶֽאֱתֶ֑ה
cometh
to arrive
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
אֱ֝ל֗וֹהַּ
with God
a deity or the deity
#6
נ֣וֹרָא
is terrible
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#7
הֽוֹד׃
majesty
grandeur (i.e., an imposing form and appearance)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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