Job 37:3

Authorized King James Version

He directeth it under the whole heaven, and his lightning unto the ends of the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּֽחַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#2
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#3
הַשָּׁמַ֥יִם
under the whole heaven
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
#4
יִשְׁרֵ֑הוּ
He directeth
to be straight or even; figuratively, to be (causatively, to make) right, pleasant, prosperous
#5
וְ֝אוֹר֗וֹ
and his lightning
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
כַּנְפ֥וֹת
unto the ends
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
#8
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
of the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection