Job 9:21

Authorized King James Version

Though I were perfect, yet would I not know my soul: I would despise my life.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תָּֽם
Though I were perfect
complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear
#2
אָ֭נִי
i
#3
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
אֵדַ֥ע
yet would I not know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
נַפְשִׁ֗י
my soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#6
אֶמְאַ֥ס
I would despise
to spurn; also (intransitively) to disappear
#7
חַיָּֽי׃
my life
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

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 life 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 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 life. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection