Job 9:18

Authorized King James Version

He will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with bitterness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יִ֭תְּנֵנִי
H5414
He will not suffer
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#3
הָשֵׁ֣ב
H7725
me to take
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#4
רוּחִ֑י
H7307
my breath
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#5
כִּ֥י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
יַ֝שְׂבִּעַ֗נִי
H7646
but filleth
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#7
מַמְּרֹרִֽים׃
H4472
me with bitterness
a bitterness, i.e., (figuratively) calamity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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