Job 16:20

My friends are my scoffers as my eyes pour out tears to God.

Study Bible

My friends
In the context of Job, "friends" refers to Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who came to comfort Job but ended up accusing him of wrongdoing. The Hebrew word for "friends" is "רֵעַ" (rea), which can mean companion or associate. Historically, friends were expected to provide support and comfort, especially in times of distress. Job's lament highlights the deep betrayal he feels, as those who should have been his support became his accusers.

are my scoffers
The term "scoffers" comes from the Hebrew "לָצוֹן" (latson), which means to mock or deride. In ancient Near Eastern culture, mockery was a severe social offense, often associated with shame and dishonor. Job's friends, instead of offering solace, ridicule his suffering, adding to his emotional and spiritual anguish. This phrase underscores the theme of misplaced trust and the pain of betrayal by those closest to us.

as my eyes pour out tears
The imagery of eyes pouring out tears is a vivid expression of deep sorrow and lamentation. In Hebrew, "pour out" is "יָזַל" (yazal), suggesting a continuous flow, indicating the depth of Job's grief. Tears in the biblical context are often associated with sincere prayer and supplication. Job's tears are not just a sign of his suffering but also a form of communication with God, expressing his anguish and plea for understanding.

to God
The Hebrew word for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a term that denotes the supreme deity, emphasizing God's power and authority. Despite his suffering and the betrayal of his friends, Job directs his lament and tears to God, showing his unwavering faith. This reflects a central theme in the Book of Job: the struggle to understand divine justice and maintain faith amidst suffering. Job's appeal to God highlights his belief that only God can truly understand and vindicate him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, experiencing intense suffering and loss.

2. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who initially come to comfort Job but end up accusing him of wrongdoing, suggesting his suffering is due to his sins.

3. God
The Almighty, to whom Job directs his lament and tears, seeking understanding and justice amidst his suffering.

4. The Land of Uz
The setting of the Book of Job, traditionally considered to be in the region of Edom or northern Arabia.

5. The Heavenly Court
An unseen realm where God and Satan discuss Job's faithfulness, setting the stage for Job's trials.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Suffering
Job's experience reminds us that suffering is a part of the human condition, even for the righteous. It challenges the simplistic view that suffering is always a direct result of personal sin.

The Role of Friends
Job's friends, though well-intentioned, become "scoffers." This teaches us the importance of offering true comfort and empathy rather than judgment when others are suffering.

Pouring Out Our Hearts to God
Job's tears directed to God illustrate the importance of bringing our deepest emotions and struggles to Him in prayer, trusting that He hears and understands.

The Misunderstanding of Suffering
Job's friends misinterpret his suffering, reminding us to be cautious in assuming we understand God's purposes in others' lives.

Faith Amidst Trials
Despite his friends' accusations and his own confusion, Job continues to seek God, demonstrating a steadfast faith that we are called to emulate.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's response to his friends' accusations challenge or affirm your understanding of suffering and righteousness?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are offering true comfort to those who are suffering, rather than becoming "scoffers" like Job's friends?

3. How can Job's example of pouring out his tears to God encourage us in our own prayer lives, especially during times of distress?

4. What other biblical figures experienced misunderstanding or false accusations during their trials, and how did they respond?

5. How can the account of Job inspire us to maintain our faith and integrity when facing personal trials and suffering?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 42:3
This verse echoes Job's lament, where the psalmist's tears are his food day and night, showing a similar expression of deep sorrow and longing for God.

John 11:35
Jesus weeps at Lazarus's tomb, demonstrating that tears and sorrow are part of the human experience, even for the sinless Son of God.

Hebrews 4:15
This verse reminds us that Jesus, our High Priest, sympathizes with our weaknesses, having experienced human suffering and emotions.