Job 5:8

Authorized King James Version

I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אוּלָ֗ם
I would seek
however or on the contrary
#2
אֲ֭נִי
i
#3
אֶדְרֹ֣שׁ
properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
אֵ֑ל
unto God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#6
וְאֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
אֱ֝לֹהִ֗ים
and unto God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#8
אָשִׂ֥ים
would I commit
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#9
דִּבְרָתִֽי׃
my cause
a reason, suit or style

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection