Job 38:19

Authorized King James Version

Where is the way where light dwelleth? and as for darkness, where is the place thereof,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵי
where? hence how?
#2
זֶ֣ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#3
הַ֭דֶּרֶךְ
Where is the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#4
יִשְׁכָּן
dwelleth
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
#5
א֑וֹר
where light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#6
וְ֝חֹ֗שֶׁךְ
and as for darkness
the dark; hence (literally) darkness; figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness
#7
אֵי
where? hence how?
#8
זֶ֥ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#9
מְקֹמֽוֹ׃
where is the 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

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