The Function of bfyh in Jonah 4 and Its Translation 393 Here bfyh modifies another infinitive absolute ˆwjf, which in turn modifies the finite verb tkaw. The infinitive absolute ˆwjf still maintains its verbal meaning “grind”. Therefore, bfyh clearly functions as a conventional adverb here, while ˆwjf is an infinitive absolute with an adverbial function that retains verbal characteristics. Outside of the book of Jonah the conventional adverb bfyh means “very” or “thoroughly”. Since it does not retain its original lexical meaning of “be good, just, or right”, it cannot be analyzed as a predicate. The three cases in Jonah are only syntactically different from others in that they are placed in the initial position of clause. This is probably due to the fact that they are the focus of the question or the answer (23). In addition, if bfyh is understood as a predicate, the subject would be the verb phrase (˚l hrj). Yet the infinitive absolute does not occur as a predicate of the subject in the form of a verb phrase. Therefore, the rendering of bfyh as a degree adverb best reflects its structure and function in Biblical Hebrew. The word bfyh can be interpreted in different ways to fit in the meaning of the context. Yet linguistic considerations based on the evidence from the Hebrew Bible suggest that we can better understand the function of bfyh as a degree adverb rather than a type of predicate. According to this interpretation, Yahweh is not indifferent to Jonah’s emotions ruthlessly imposing his own agenda on his servant. On the contrary, Yahweh understands Jonah’s feelings and cares about his distress. As noted by J. Sasson, here Yahweh “sympa- thizes with Jonah’s despair” (24). Department of Christian Studies Yoo-ki KIM Seoul Women’s University Seoul 139-774, Republic of Korea SUMMARY Most modern translations render bfyh in Jonah 4,4 as a predicate. However, traditional grammars take its function as an adverb that modifies the meaning of the verb, suggesting its translation as a degree adverb. Linguistic considerations support the latter option. This line of understanding opens up a possibility to interpret Yahweh’s question in Jonah 4,4 not as a confrontation but as an expression of consolation and compassion toward his prophet. (23) In Biblical Hebrew, it is generally acknowledged that the unmarked constituent order of a clause is VSO (Verb-Subject-Object), and that the preverbal position is optionally reserved for special pragmatic functions such as topic or focus. (24) SASSON, Jonah, 287.