Job 5:12

Authorized King James Version

He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform their enterprise.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מֵ֭פֵר

H6565

He disappointeth

to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate

מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת

H4284

the devices

a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)

עֲרוּמִ֑ים

H6175

of the crafty

cunning (usually in a bad sense)

וְֽלֹא

H3808

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

תַעֲשֶׂ֥ינָה

H6213

cannot perform

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

יְ֝דֵיהֶ֗ם

H3027

so that their hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

תּוּשִׁיָּֽה׃

H8454

their enterprise

support or (by implication) ability, i.e., (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding

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 does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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?