Job 8:17

Authorized King James Version

His roots are wrapped about the heap, and seeth the place of stones.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
גַּ֭ל
the heap
something rolled, i.e., a heap of stone or dung (plural ruins), by analogy, a spring of water (plural waves)
#3
שָֽׁרָשָׁ֣יו
His roots
a root (literally or figuratively)
#4
יְסֻבָּ֑כוּ
are wrapped about
to entwine
#5
בֵּ֖ית
the place
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#6
אֲבָנִ֣ים
H68
of stones
a stone
#7
יֶחֱזֶֽה׃
and seeth
to gaze at; mentally to perceive, contemplate (with pleasure); specifically, to have a vision of

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