Job 38:17

Have the gates of death been opened unto thee? or hast thou seen the doors of the shadow of death?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲנִגְל֣וּ

H1540

been opened

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

לְ֭ךָ

וְשַׁעֲרֵ֖י

H8179

Have the gates

an opening, i.e., door or gate

מָ֑וֶת

H4194

of death

death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin

וְשַׁעֲרֵ֖י

H8179

Have the gates

an opening, i.e., door or gate

צַלְמָ֣וֶת

H6757

of the shadow of death

shade of death, i.e., the grave (figuratively, calamity)

תִּרְאֶֽה׃

H7200

unto thee or hast thou seen

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?