Job 38:16

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea? or hast thou walked in the search of the depth?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֲ֭בָאתָ
Hast thou entered
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#2
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#3
נִבְכֵי
into the springs
a fountain
#4
יָ֑ם
of the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#5
וּבְחֵ֥קֶר
in the search
examination, enumeration, deliberation
#6
תְּ֝ה֗וֹם
of the depth
an abyss (as a surging mass of water), especially the deep (the main sea or the subterranean watersupply)
#7
הִתְהַלָּֽכְתָּ׃
or hast thou walked
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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