Job 38:41

Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִ֤י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

יָכִ֥ין

H3559

Who provideth

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

לָעֹרֵ֗ב

H6158

for the raven

a raven (from its dusky hue)

צֵ֫יד֥וֹ

H6718

his food

(generally) lunch (especially for a journey)

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יְ֭לָדָו

H3206

when his young ones

something born, i.e., a lad or offspring

אֶל

H410

unto God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

אֵ֣ל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יְשַׁוֵּ֑עוּ

H7768

cry

properly, to be free; but used only causatively and reflexively, to halloo (for help, i.e., freedom from some trouble)

#10

יִ֝תְע֗וּ

H8582

they wander

to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both

#11

לִבְלִי

H1097

for lack

properly, failure, i.e., nothing or destruction; usually (with preposition) without, not yet, because not, as long as, etc

#12

אֹֽכֶל׃

H400

of meat

food

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?