Job 4:16

Authorized King James Version

It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice, saying,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יַֽעֲמֹ֤ד׀
It stood still
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#2
וְֽלֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
אַכִּ֬יר
but I could not discern
properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (
#4
מַרְאֵ֗הוּ
the form
a view (the act of seeing); also an appearance (the thing seen), whether (real) a shape (especially if handsome, comeliness; often plural the looks),
#5
תְּ֭מוּנָה
thereof an image
something portioned (i.e., fashioned) out, as a shape, i.e., (indefinitely) phantom, or (specifically) embodiment, or (figuratively) manifestation (of
#6
לְנֶ֣גֶד
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
#7
עֵינָ֑י
was before mine eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#8
דְּמָמָ֖ה
there was silence
quiet
#9
וָק֣וֹל
a voice
a voice or sound
#10
אֶשְׁמָֽע׃
and I heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

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 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