Job 38:24

Authorized King James Version

By what way is the light parted, which scattereth the east wind upon the earth?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵי
By what
where? hence how?
#2
זֶ֣ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#3
הַ֭דֶּרֶךְ
way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#4
יֵחָ֣לֶק
parted
to be smooth (figuratively)
#5
א֑וֹר
is the light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#6
יָפֵ֖ץ
which scattereth
to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)
#7
קָדִ֣ים
the east wind
the fore or front part; hence (by orientation) the east (often adverbially, eastward, for brevity the east wind)
#8
עֲלֵי
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
אָֽרֶץ׃
upon the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

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