Job 38:28

Authorized King James Version

Hath the rain a father? or who hath begotten the drops of dew?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֲיֵשׁ
Hath
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
#2
לַמָּטָ֥ר
the rain
rain
#3
אָ֑ב
H1
a father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#4
א֥וֹ
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#5
מִי
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#6
ה֝וֹלִ֗יד
or who hath begotten
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#7
אֶגְלֵי
H96
the drops
a reservoir
#8
טָֽל׃
of dew
dew (as covering vegetation)

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