Job 40:22

Authorized King James Version

The shady trees cover him with their shadow; the willows of the brook compass him about.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יְסֻכֻּ֣הוּ
cover
properly, to entwine as a screen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, (figuratively) protect
#2
צֶאֱלִ֣ים
The shady trees
the lotus tree
#3
צִֽלֲל֑וֹ
him with their shadow
shade
#4
יְ֝סֻבּ֗וּהוּ
compass him about
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
#5
עַרְבֵי
the willows
a willow (from the use of osiers as wattles)
#6
נָֽחַל׃
of the brook
a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)

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

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