Job 37:4

Authorized King James Version

After it a voice roareth: he thundereth with the voice of his excellency; and he will not stay them when his voice is heard.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַחֲרָ֤יו׀
After
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#2
יִשְׁאַג
roareth
to rumble or moan
#3
קוֹלֽוֹ׃
it a voice
a voice or sound
#4
יַ֭רְעֵם
he thundereth
to tumble, i.e., be violently agitated; specifically, to crash (of thunder); figuratively, to irritate (with anger)
#5
קוֹלֽוֹ׃
it a voice
a voice or sound
#6
גְּאוֹנ֑וֹ
of his excellency
the same as h1346
#7
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
יְ֝עַקְּבֵ֗ם
and he will not stay
to seize by the heel; figuratively, to circumvent (as if tripping up the heels); also to restrain (as if holding by the heel)
#9
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
יִשָּׁמַ֥ע
is heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#11
קוֹלֽוֹ׃
it a voice
a voice or sound

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection