Job 37:7

He sealeth up the hand of every man; that all men may know his work.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּיַד

H3027

the hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אָדָ֥ם

H120

of every man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

יַחְתּ֑וֹם

H2856

He sealeth up

to close up; especially to seal

לָ֝דַ֗עַת

H3045

may know

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אַנְשֵׁ֥י

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מַעֲשֵֽׂהוּ׃

H4639

his work

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?