Job 40:15

Authorized King James Version

Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִנֵּה
lo!
#2
נָ֣א
'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction
#3
בְ֭הֵמוֹת
Behold now behemoth
a dinosaur
#4
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#5
עָשִׂ֣יתִי
which I made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
עִמָּ֑ךְ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#7
חָ֝צִ֗יר
grass
grass; also a leek (collectively)
#8
כַּבָּקָ֥ר
as an ox
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
#9
יֹאכֵֽל׃
with thee he eateth
to eat (literally or figuratively)

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