Job 38:38

Authorized King James Version

When the dust groweth into hardness, and the clods cleave fast together?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּצֶ֣קֶת
groweth
properly, to pour out (transitive or intransitive); by implication, to melt or cast as metal; by extension, to place firmly, to stiffen or grow hard
#2
עָ֭פָר
When the dust
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
#3
לַמּוּצָ֑ק
into hardness
properly, fusion, i.e., literally, a casting (of metal); figuratively, a mass (of clay)
#4
וּרְגָבִ֥ים
and the clods
a lump of clay
#5
יְדֻבָּֽקוּ׃
cleave fast together
properly, to impinge, i.e., cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection