Job 9:31

Authorized King James Version

Yet shalt thou plunge me in the ditch, and mine own clothes shall abhor me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֭ז
Yet
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
בַּשַּׁ֣חַת
me in the ditch
a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction
#3
תִּטְבְּלֵ֑נִי
shalt thou plunge
to dip, to immerse
#4
וְ֝תִֽעֲב֗וּנִי
shall abhor
to loathe, i.e., (morally) detest
#5
שַׂלְמוֹתָֽי׃
and mine own clothes
a dress

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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