Job 5:21

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue: neither shalt thou be afraid of destruction when it cometh.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּשׁ֣וֹט

H7752

from the scourge

a lash (literally or figuratively)

לָ֭שׁוֹן

H3956

of the tongue

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

תֵּֽחָבֵ֑א

H2244

Thou shalt be hid

to secrete

וְֽלֹא

H3808

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

תִירָ֥א

H3372

neither shalt thou be afraid

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

מִ֝שֹּׁ֗ד

H7701

of destruction

violence, ravage

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יָבֽוֹא׃

H935

when it cometh

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

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

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 does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?