Job 6:4

Authorized King James Version

For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the terrors of God do set themselves in array against me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
חִצֵּ֪י
For the arrows
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#3
שַׁדַּ֡י
of the Almighty
the almighty
#4
עִמָּדִ֗י
are within
along with
#5
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
חֲ֭מָתָם
me the poison
heat; figuratively, anger, poison (from its fever)
#7
שֹׁתָ֣ה
whereof drinketh up
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#8
רוּחִ֑י
my spirit
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#9
בִּֽעוּתֵ֖י
the terrors
alarms
#10
אֱל֣וֹהַּ
of God
a deity or the deity
#11
יַֽעַרְכֽוּנִי׃
do set themselves in array
to set in a row, i.e., arrange, put in order (in a very wide variety of applications)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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