Job 39:4

Authorized King James Version

Their young ones are in good liking, they grow up with corn; they go forth, and return not unto them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יַחְלְמ֣וּ

H2492

are in good liking

properly, to bind firmly, i.e., (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream

בְ֭נֵיהֶם

H1121

Their young ones

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יִרְבּ֣וּ

H7235

they grow up

to increase (in whatever respect)

בַבָּ֑ר

H1250

with corn

grain of any kind (even while standing in the field); by extension the open country

יָ֝צְא֗וּ

H3318

they go forth

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

וְלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁ֥בוּ

H7725

and return

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

לָֽמוֹ׃

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?