Job 37:8

Authorized King James Version

Then the beasts go into dens, and remain in their places.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתָּב֣וֹא
go
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#2
חַיָּ֣ה
Then the beasts
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#3
בְמוֹ
into
in, with, by, etc
#4
אָ֑רֶב
dens
ambuscade
#5
וּבִמְע֖וֹנֹתֶ֣יהָ
in their places
an abode, of god (the tabernacle or the temple), men (their home) or animals (their lair); hence, a retreat (asylum)
#6
תִשְׁכֹּֽן׃
and remain
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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