Job 38:18

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth? declare if thou knowest it all.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִ֭תְבֹּנַנְתָּ
H995
Hast thou perceived
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#2
עַד
H5704
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#3
רַחֲבֵי
H7338
the breadth
a width
#4
אָ֑רֶץ
H776
of the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#5
הַ֝גֵּ֗ד
H5046
declare
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#6
אִם
H518
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#7
יָדַ֥עְתָּ
H3045
if thou knowest
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#8
כֻלָּֽהּ׃
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

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