Job 9:20

Authorized King James Version

If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
אֶ֭צְדָּק
If I justify
to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)
#3
פִּ֣י
myself mine own mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#4
יַרְשִׁיעֵ֑נִי
shall condemn
to be (causatively, do or declare) wrong; by implication, to disturb, violate
#5
תָּֽם
me if I say I am perfect
complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear
#6
אָ֝֗נִי
i
#7
וַֽיַּעְקְשֵֽׁנִי׃
it shall also prove me perverse
to knot or distort; figuratively, to pervert (act or declare perverse)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection