Job 38:12

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou commanded the morning since thy days; and caused the dayspring to know his place;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֲֽ֭מִיָּמֶיךָ
since thy days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#2
צִוִּ֣יתָ
Hast thou commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#3
בֹּ֑קֶר
the morning
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
#4
יִדַּ֖עְתָּהַ
to know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
שַּׁ֣חַר
and caused the dayspring
dawn (literal, figurative or adverbial)
#6
מְקֹמֽוֹ׃
his place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

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

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