Job 9:12

Authorized King James Version

Behold, he taketh away, who can hinder him? who will say unto him, What doest thou?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵ֣ן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
יַ֭חְתֹּף
Behold he taketh away
to clutch
#3
מִ֣י
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#4
יְשִׁיבֶ֑נּוּ
who can hinder
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#5
מִֽי
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#6
יֹאמַ֥ר
him who will say
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
אֵ֝לָ֗יו
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
מַֽה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#9
תַּעֲשֶֽׂה׃
unto him What doest
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection