Job 6:16

Authorized King James Version

Which are blackish by reason of the ice, and wherein the snow is hid:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַקֹּֽדְרִ֥ים
Which are blackish
to be ashy, i.e., dark-colored; by implication, to mourn (in sackcloth or sordid garments)
#2
מִנִּי
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#3
קָ֑רַח
by reason of the ice
ice (as if bald, i.e., smooth); hence, hail; by resemblance, rock crystal
#4
עָ֝לֵ֗ימוֹ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
יִתְעַלֶּם
is hid
to veil from sight, i.e., conceal (literally or figuratively)
#6
שָֽׁלֶג׃
and wherein the snow
snow (probably from its whiteness)

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