Job 5:20

Authorized King James Version

In famine he shall redeem thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּֽ֭רָעָב
In famine
hunger (more or less extensive)
#2
פָּֽדְךָ֣
he shall redeem
to sever, i.e., ransom; generally to release, preserve
#3
מִמָּ֑וֶת
thee from death
death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
#4
וּ֝בְמִלְחָמָ֗ה
and in war
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
#5
מִ֣ידֵי
from the power
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
#6
חָֽרֶב׃
of the sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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