Job 40:21

Authorized King James Version

He lieth under the shady trees, in the covert of the reed, and fens.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּֽחַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#2
צֶאֱלִ֥ים
under the shady trees
the lotus tree
#3
יִשְׁכָּ֑ב
He lieth
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#4
בְּסֵ֖תֶר
in the covert
a cover (in a good or a bad, a literal or a figurative sense)
#5
קָנֶ֣ה
of the reed
a reed (as erect); by resemblance a rod (especially for measuring), shaft, tube, stem, the radius (of the arm), beam (of a steelyard)
#6
וּבִצָּֽה׃
and fens
a swamp

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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