Job 9:22

Authorized King James Version

This is one thing, therefore I said it, He destroyeth the perfect and the wicked.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַחַ֗ת
This is one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#2
הִ֥יא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
כֵּ֥ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#5
אָמַ֑רְתִּי
thing therefore I said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
תָּ֥ם
the perfect
complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear
#7
וְ֝רָשָׁ֗ע
and the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#8
ה֣וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#9
מְכַלֶּֽה׃
it He destroyeth
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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