Job 39:20

Authorized King James Version

Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הְֽ֭תַרְעִישֶׁנּוּ
Canst thou make him afraid
to undulate (as the earth, the sky, etc.; also a field of grain), particularly through fear; specifically, to spring (as a locust)
#2
כָּאַרְבֶּ֑ה
as a grasshopper
a locust (from its rapid increase)
#3
ה֖וֹד
the glory
grandeur (i.e., an imposing form and appearance)
#4
נַחְר֣וֹ
of his nostrils
a snorting
#5
אֵימָֽה׃
is terrible
fright; concrete, an idol (as a bugbear)

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 glory 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection