Job 8:18

If he destroy him from his place, then it shall deny him, saying, I have not seen thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

יְבַלְּעֶ֥נּוּ

H1104

If he destroy

to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy

מִמְּקֹמ֑וֹ

H4725

him from his place

properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

וְכִ֥חֶשׁ

H3584

then it shall deny

to be untrue, in word (to lie, feign, disown) or deed (to disappoint, fail, cringe)

בּ֝֗וֹ

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

רְאִיתִֽיךָ׃

H7200

him saying I have not seen

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?