Job 5:7

Authorized King James Version

Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
אָ֭דָם
Yet man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#3
לְעָמָ֣ל
unto trouble
toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind
#4
יוּלָּ֑ד
is born
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#5
וּבְנֵי
as
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#6
רֶ֝֗שֶׁף
the sparks
a live coal; by analogy lightning; figuratively, an arrow, (as flashing through the air); specifically, fever
#7
יַגְבִּ֥יהוּ
upward
to soar, i.e., be lofty; figuratively, to be haughty
#8
עֽוּף׃
fly
to fly; also (by implication of dimness) to faint (from the darkness of swooning)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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