Job 4:15

Then a spirit passed before my face; the hair of my flesh stood up:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְ֭רוּחַ

H7307

Then a spirit

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

פָּנַ֣י

H6440

before my face

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

יַֽחֲלֹ֑ף

H2498

passed

properly, to slide by, i.e., (by implication) to hasten away, pass on, spring up, pierce or change

תְּ֝סַמֵּ֗ר

H5568

stood up

to be erect, i.e., bristle as hair

שַֽׂעֲרַ֥ת

H8185

the hair

hairiness

בְּשָׂרִֽי׃

H1320

of my flesh

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

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

How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
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?