Job 40:5

Authorized King James Version

Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אַחַ֣ת

H259

Once

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

דִּ֭בַּרְתִּי

H1696

have I spoken

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אֶֽעֱנֶ֑ה

H6030

but I will not answer

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

וּ֝שְׁתַּ֗יִם

H8147

yea twice

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אוֹסִֽיף׃

H3254

but I will proceed no further

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

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 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 might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?