volume 11, issue 2, 2019, pages 87-102

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64438/sbsDRDG6999
Published online: 2019-12-01
Published in print: 2019-12-30

Abstract: Contrary to the usual translation as a rhetorical question, Job 1:10a is better understood as an ironic assertion. It may remain questionable whether אלה should be considered in some cases as a non-interrogative and non-negative particle in Classical Hebrew rather than as a combination of ה + אל. However, it is beyond doubt that not rarely אלה does not open up an interrogative clause but has an asseverative or presentative function. Among the criteria that have been suggested in recent research as indication of a non-interrogative use of אלה, two are of particular relevance: the fronting of the subject before the verb in verbal clauses and the sequence rhetorical question(s) – אלה-clause. Both criteria apply to the clause in Job 1:10a, which for that reason is best translated as a statement. Satan, through repetitions, contrasting comparisons and exaggeration, subtly transforms the statement about God’s blessing of Job into an ironic critique of divine care and Job’s piety.