Job 38:1

Authorized King James Version

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּֽעַן
answered
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#2
יְהוָ֣ה
Then the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
אִ֭יּוֹב
Job
ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience
#5
מִ֥נ׀
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#6
הַסְּעָרָ֗ה
out of the whirlwind
a hurricane
#7
וַיֹּאמַֽר׃
and said
to say (used with great latitude)

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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Job.

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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection