◄ Job 19 ►
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Job: My Redeemer Lives 1Then Job answered: 2“How long will you torment me and crush me with your words? 3Ten times now you have reproached me; you shamelessly mistreat me. 4Even if I have truly gone astray, my error concerns me alone. 5If indeed you would exalt yourselves above me and use my disgrace against me, 6then understand that it is God who has wronged me and drawn His net around me. 7Though I cry out, ‘Violence!’ I get no response; though I call for help, there is no justice. 8He has blocked my way so I cannot pass; He has veiled my paths with darkness. 9He has stripped me of my honor and removed the crown from my head. 10He tears me down on every side until I am gone; He uproots my hope like a tree. 11His anger burns against me, and He counts me among His enemies. 12His troops advance together; they construct a ramp against me and encamp around my tent. 13He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me. 14My kinsmen have failed me, and my friends have forgotten me. 15My guests and maidservants count me as a stranger; I am a foreigner in their sight. 16I call for my servant, but he does not answer, though I implore him with my own mouth. 17My breath is repulsive to my wife, and I am loathsome to my own family. 18Even little boys scorn me; when I appear, they deride me. 19All my best friends despise me, and those I love have turned against me. 20My skin and flesh cling to my bones; I have escaped by the skin of my teeth. 21Have pity on me, my friends, have pity, for the hand of God has struck me. 22Why do you persecute me as God does? Will you never get enough of my flesh? 23I wish that my words were recorded and inscribed in a book, 24by an iron stylus on lead, or chiseled in stone forever. 25But I know that my Redeemera lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth.b 26Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my fleshc I will see God. 27I will see Him for myself; my eyes will behold Him, and not as a stranger. How my heart yearnsd within me! 28If you say, ‘Let us persecute him, since the root of the matter lies with him,e’ 29then you should fear the sword yourselves, because wrath brings punishment by the sword, so that you may know there is a judgment.” Footnotes: 25 a Or Vindicator 25 b Or on my grave 26 c Or without my flesh 27 d Hebrew my kidneys yearn 28 e Many Hebrew manuscripts, LXX, and Vulgate; most Hebrew manuscripts with me Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Job 19 Summary Job: My Redeemer Lives Verses 1–6 – Job’s Stinging Reply to His Friends Job rebukes his companions for crushing him with words. Their accusations feel like tenfold humiliation; yet Job insists the real conflict is between him and God. Even if he were guilty, the matter would be God’s alone to settle. Verses 7–12 – Job Describes a Divine Siege He cries for help, but “there is no justice.” Barricades, darkness, uprooted hope, an army encamped against him—Job pictures God as a besieging force that tears down walls, surrounds his tent, and drives him into a corner. Verses 13–22 – Job Lists His Social Isolation Relatives, close friends, servants, and even children shun him. His breath repulses his wife; his body is only skin and bones. He pleads for compassion, warning that God’s hand, not his own wrongdoing, produced this misery. Verses 23–27 – Job Announces His Undying Hope Job longs for his words to be engraved in stone, then bursts into confident faith: “I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth. Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God” (vv. 25–26). He expects to behold God personally, not as a stranger. Verses 28–29 – Job Warns His Accusers If they persist in their blame-shifting, the sword of divine judgment awaits. Job’s sufferings are a testimony; they would only compound their guilt by misreading them. Job 19 is a vivid portrayal of Job's lament, his despair amidst suffering, and his steadfast faith in the ultimate justice of God. Even while his friends continue their reproach, Job remains resolute, not only defending his personal integrity but also expressing a profound hope in his future vindication and resurrection. Historical Setting and Date Job likely lived in the patriarchal era (roughly ~2100–1800 BC). His wealth is measured in livestock, he serves as priest for his family (Job 1:5), and the Hebrew term for silver coinage is absent—all pointing to the time of Abraham. This early date fits the cultural backdrops of Uz (possibly Edom or northwestern Arabia) and the “sons of the east” (Job 1:3). Clay tablets from Mari and Nuzi show similar family-clan court practices, matching Job’s legal tone here. Job’s Legal Language and Ancient Court Imagery • “He has stripped me of my honor” (v. 9): echoes ancient stripping of courtly robes when a noble loses standing. • “He tears me down on every side” (v. 10): siege terminology. Tablets from Ugarit describe city walls “pulled down” in divine judgment tales. • “Arrest warrant” feel (vv. 7-11): Job portrays God as judge, prosecutor, and jailer. Isaiah 50:8-9 and Psalm 43:1 likewise appeal to God as ultimate adjudicator when human courts fail. Archaeological Echoes of Near-Eastern Suffering Cylinder seals depict a lone figure raising hands toward a storm-god—an image of helpless supplication like Job’s cry in v. 7. Amorite laments etched on tablets reflect the isolation Job names: “My kin are far, my friends have vanished, my skin clings to bone.” Such parallels confirm the authenticity of Job’s social-loss list. The Concept of a Redeemer (Go’el) in Scripture Job’s “Redeemer” (Heb. go’el) is the kinsman who restores property, frees slaves, or avenges blood (Leviticus 25:25; Numbers 35:19). Ruth 3–4 shows Boaz as go’el, prefiguring Christ. Isaiah 41:14; 44:6 calls the LORD “your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” Job extends that role beyond this life: the go’el will “stand upon the earth” after death has done its worst. Foreshadowing the Resurrection Job’s anticipation of seeing God “in my flesh” after decay mirrors Psalm 16:10 (“You will not abandon my soul to Sheol”) and Daniel 12:2 (“many… will awake”). The New Testament affirms this hope: “We know that when He appears, we shall be like Him” (1 John 3:2). Literary Features: Chiasm and Imagery The chapter forms a chiastic structure: A (vv. 1-6) complaint to friends B (vv. 7-12) divine assault images C (vv. 13-20) social abandonment C′ (vv. 21-22) plea for mercy B′ (vv. 23-27) divine vindication hope A′ (vv. 28-29) warning to friends The inverted symmetry heightens the pivot in vv. 23-27—faith in a living Redeemer. Practical Lessons for Today • Words can wound deeply; Job’s friends show how not to comfort (vv. 1-3; cf. Romans 12:15). • Suffering can produce a clearer, not cloudier, vision of God (vv. 25-27). • Isolation does not mean abandonment; the redeemer’s presence is promised (Hebrews 13:5). • Claiming moral superiority over the suffering invites judgment (vv. 28-29; Matthew 7:1-2). Connections to the New Testament • “No justice” (v. 7) answered in Christ, who “suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God” (1 Peter 3:18). • “Skin and bones” (v. 20) parallels Jesus’ crucifixion description in Psalm 22:17-18. • Job’s engraved words (v. 24) find fulfillment in the inscribed, empty tomb (John 20:31). • “My Redeemer lives” (v. 25) resonates with Revelation 1:18, where Christ declares, “I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.” Through anguish, accusation, and astonishing faith, Job 19 turns sorrow into one of Scripture’s brightest lights of future hope. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 34:18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. This verse reassures us of God's presence in our suffering. Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us. This passage encourages us to look beyond our current trials to the future glory promised by God. 1 Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials, so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. This scripture highlights the refining purpose of trials. Teaching Points Job's Isolation and Despair Job begins by expressing his deep sense of isolation and the relentless accusations from his friends. He feels wronged and misunderstood, as seen in Job 19:2-3: How long will you torment me and crush me with words? Ten times now you have reproached me; you shamelessly mistreat me. Perceived Abandonment by God Job feels that God has turned against him, as he states in Job 19:6-7: Then know that God has wronged me and drawn His net around me. Though I cry out, ‘Violence!’ I get no response; though I call for help, there is no justice. Loss of Social Support Job laments the loss of his social network, including family and friends, as described in Job 19:13-14: He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me. My kinsmen have failed me, and my friends have forgotten me. Declaration of Faith Despite his suffering, Job makes a powerful declaration of faith in Job 19:25-27: But I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth. Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God. I will see Him for myself; my eyes will behold Him, and not as a stranger. How my heart yearns within me! Practical Applications Empathy in Suffering Recognize the importance of offering genuine empathy and support to those who are suffering, rather than judgment or criticism. Faith Amidst Trials Emulate Job's example of maintaining faith in God's ultimate justice and redemption, even when circumstances seem dire. Hope in Redemption Hold onto the hope that our Redeemer lives and that we will one day see Him face to face, which can provide comfort and strength in times of trial. Community Support Be intentional in maintaining and nurturing relationships, understanding the vital role of community in providing support during difficult times. People 1. Job The central figure in the Book of Job, he is a man of great faith and integrity who is undergoing severe trials and suffering. In Job 19, he expresses his deep anguish and sense of abandonment, both by God and by his friends. He is the speaker throughout this chapter. 2. Job's Friends Although not named individually in this chapter, Job's friends are present and are the ones to whom Job is responding. They have been offering explanations for his suffering, suggesting it is due to his sin. In the broader context of the book, these friends are Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. 3. God Referred to indirectly, God is the ultimate being whom Job feels has wronged him. Job expresses a sense of being forsaken by God, yet he also declares his hope in a Redeemer who will vindicate him (Job 19:25). 4. Redeemer In Job 19:25, Job speaks of a "Redeemer" who lives and will stand upon the earth. This figure is often interpreted by conservative Christians as a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate Redeemer in Christian theology. The Hebrew word used here is "גֹּאֵל" (go'el), which refers to a kinsman-redeemer, a concept deeply rooted in Hebrew tradition. 5. Job's Relatives and Acquaintances In verses 13-14, Job laments that his relatives and acquaintances have alienated themselves from him. These are the people who once were close to him but have now distanced themselves in his time of need. 6. Servants In verse 16, Job mentions his servants, who no longer respond to him, highlighting his loss of status and respect. 7. Wife Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, Job's wife is part of his immediate family context. In the broader narrative, she is one who also struggles with Job's suffering. 8. Children In verse 17, Job refers to the children of his own body, indicating his offspring, who are estranged from him in his suffering. Places In Job 19, there are no specific geographical places mentioned. The chapter primarily focuses on Job's lament about his suffering and his plea for understanding and justice. Events 1. Job's Complaint of Suffering (Job 19:1-6) Job begins by expressing his frustration with his friends, who continue to torment him with their words. He feels wronged and misunderstood, stating, "How long will you torment me and crush me with words?" (Job 19:2). The Hebrew root for "torment" (יָגַע, ^yaga^) conveys a sense of weariness and exhaustion. 2. Job's Perception of God's Actions (Job 19:7-12) Job describes his perception that God has wronged him and blocked his path. He cries out for help but feels unheard, saying, "Though I cry out, ‘Violence!’ I get no response; though I call for help, there is no justice" (Job 19:7). The Hebrew word for "violence" (חָמָס, ^chamas^) often denotes injustice or wrongdoing. 3. Isolation from Friends and Family (Job 19:13-19) Job laments his isolation, noting that his relatives, acquaintances, and even servants have turned away from him. He states, "He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me" (Job 19:13). The Hebrew root for "abandoned" (זָנַח, ^zanach^) implies being cast off or rejected. 4. Job's Physical and Emotional Suffering (Job 19:20-22) Job describes his physical condition, saying, "My skin and flesh cling to my bones; I have escaped by the skin of my teeth" (Job 19:20). This vivid imagery highlights his extreme suffering and near-death state. 5. Plea for Compassion (Job 19:21-22) Job pleads with his friends for compassion, asking, "Have pity on me, my friends, have pity, for the hand of God has struck me" (Job 19:21). The Hebrew word for "pity" (חָנַן, ^chanan^) suggests a plea for grace or mercy. 6. Job's Declaration of Faith (Job 19:23-27) Despite his suffering, Job expresses a profound declaration of faith, longing for his words to be recorded. He confidently states, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth" (Job 19:25). The term "Redeemer" (גֹּאֵל, ^go'el^) refers to a kinsman-redeemer, a figure of deliverance and vindication. 7. Warning to His Friends (Job 19:28-29) Job concludes by warning his friends about the consequences of their actions, suggesting that they should fear judgment themselves. He says, "If you say, ‘How shall we persecute him?’ since the root of the matter lies with him, then be afraid of the sword yourselves" (Job 19:28-29). The Hebrew word for "persecute" (רָדַף, ^radaf^) implies pursuing or harassing. Lessons from Job 19 1. The Power of Faith Amidst Trials In Job 19, we witness Job's unwavering faith despite his immense suffering. He declares, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth" (Job 19:25). This powerful statement reminds us that no matter the trials we face, our faith in God can provide strength and hope. Trusting in God's eternal presence can transform our perspective, allowing us to endure hardships with grace and resilience. 2. The Importance of a Redeemer Job's proclamation of a living Redeemer highlights the necessity of a Savior in our lives. He expresses a deep longing for redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This anticipation of a Redeemer encourages us to rely on Christ for salvation and guidance, knowing that He has overcome the world and offers us eternal life. 3. The Value of Eternal Perspective Job's suffering leads him to focus on eternal truths rather than temporary afflictions. He says, "Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God" (Job 19:26). This eternal perspective helps us prioritize our spiritual journey over worldly concerns, reminding us that our ultimate goal is to be in the presence of God. 4. The Reality of Misunderstanding Job's friends misunderstand his plight, offering misguided advice and judgment. This teaches us the importance of empathy and compassion when others are suffering. We should strive to listen and support rather than judge, recognizing that only God fully understands each person's heart and circumstances. 5. The Assurance of God's Justice Despite his despair, Job trusts in God's justice, knowing that He will ultimately vindicate the righteous. This assurance encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, confident that God will right all wrongs in His perfect timing. "How long will you torment my soul and crush me with words?" (Job 19:2) serves as a reminder that human judgment is fallible, but God's justice is unfailing. 6. The Significance of Personal Testimony Job's declaration of faith serves as a powerful testimony to those around him. By sharing our own experiences of God's faithfulness, we can inspire and encourage others in their spiritual journeys. Our personal testimonies can be a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of God's love and grace. 7. The Necessity of Patience Job's story is a testament to the virtue of patience. Despite his suffering, he waits on the Lord, trusting in His timing and wisdom. This patience is a crucial lesson for us, reminding us to remain steadfast and hopeful, even when answers seem distant. "Have pity on me, my friends, have pity, for the hand of God has struck me" (Job 19:21) illustrates the need for patience in the face of adversity. 8. The Comfort of God's Presence In his darkest moments, Job finds solace in the knowledge that God is with him. This comfort is available to us as well, as we are assured of God's constant presence through the Holy Spirit. By seeking His presence in prayer and Scripture, we can find peace and strength to face any challenge. 9. The Role of Hope in Suffering Job's hope in a future encounter with God sustains him through his trials. This hope is a vital component of our faith, providing the assurance that our suffering is not in vain. "Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were written on a scroll" (Job 19:23) reflects Job's desire for his hope to be remembered, encouraging us to hold fast to hope in our own lives. 10. The Promise of Resurrection Job's anticipation of seeing God in his flesh points to the promise of resurrection. This hope is fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering us the assurance of eternal life. By embracing this promise, we can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that our ultimate victory is secure in Christ. Topics 1. Job's Complaint of Suffering (Job 19:1-6) Job begins by expressing his deep anguish and frustration over the relentless accusations from his friends. He feels wronged and misunderstood, stating, "How long will you torment me and crush me with words?" (Job 19:2). The Hebrew root for "torment" (יָגַע, yāgaʿ) conveys a sense of weariness and exhaustion, highlighting Job's emotional state. 2. Isolation and Alienation (Job 19:7-13) Job describes his sense of isolation, feeling abandoned by God and man. He laments, "He has walled up my way so I cannot pass; He has veiled my paths with darkness" (Job 19:8). The imagery of being "walled up" (גָּדַר, gāḏar) suggests being trapped or confined, emphasizing Job's feeling of being cut off from help and hope. 3. Betrayal by Friends and Family (Job 19:14-19) Job recounts the betrayal and distance from his closest relations, stating, "My relatives have failed me, and my close friends have forgotten me" (Job 19:14). The Hebrew word for "forgotten" (שָׁכַח, šāḵaḥ) implies a deliberate neglect, underscoring the depth of Job's sense of abandonment. 4. Job's Physical and Emotional Suffering (Job 19:20-22) Job vividly describes his physical deterioration and emotional pain, saying, "My bones cling to my skin and flesh; I have escaped by the skin of my teeth" (Job 19:20). The phrase "skin of my teeth" is a unique expression indicating a narrow escape from death, reflecting Job's dire condition. 5. Job's Plea for Compassion (Job 19:23-24) Job expresses a desire for his words to be recorded permanently, hoping for vindication. He pleads, "Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were inscribed in a book" (Job 19:23). This longing for a lasting testimony highlights Job's hope for justice and understanding. 6. Declaration of Faith in a Redeemer (Job 19:25-27) Despite his suffering, Job makes a profound declaration of faith, affirming, "But I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth" (Job 19:25). The term "Redeemer" (גֹּאֵל, gō'ēl) refers to a kinsman-redeemer, a concept rooted in Hebrew law, symbolizing hope for restoration and vindication. 7. Warning to His Friends (Job 19:28-29) Job concludes with a warning to his friends about the consequences of their unjust accusations, stating, "Be afraid of the sword, for wrath brings punishment by the sword, so that you may know there is a judgment" (Job 19:29). This serves as a reminder of divine justice and the importance of righteous judgment. Themes 1. Suffering and Isolation Job expresses profound suffering and a sense of isolation from friends and family. He feels abandoned and misunderstood, as seen in Job 19:13-14: "He has removed my brothers from me; my acquaintances have abandoned me. My kinsmen have failed me, and my friends have forgotten me." The Hebrew root for "abandoned" (עָזַב, 'azab) conveys a sense of being forsaken or left behind. 2. Injustice and Misunderstanding Job laments the injustice he perceives in his situation, feeling wronged by both God and man. In Job 19:6-7, he states, "Know then that God has wronged me and drawn His net around me. Though I cry out, ‘Violence!’ I get no response; though I call for help, there is no justice." The Hebrew word for "violence" (חָמָס, chamas) implies a sense of moral wrong or injustice. 3. Hope in a Redeemer Despite his despair, Job expresses hope in a future Redeemer. In Job 19:25-26, he declares, "But I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth. Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God." The term "Redeemer" (גֹּאֵל, go'el) refers to a kinsman-redeemer, one who avenges or vindicates. 4. Desire for Vindication Job longs for his words to be recorded and his integrity to be vindicated. In Job 19:23-24, he says, "Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were inscribed in a book, engraved with an iron pen and lead, or chiseled in stone forever." The desire for permanence in his testimony reflects a deep yearning for truth and justice. 5. Faith in Resurrection Job expresses a belief in seeing God after death, indicating an early concept of resurrection. In Job 19:26-27, he states, "Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God. I will see Him for myself; my eyes will behold Him, and not as a stranger." This reflects a hope beyond the grave, rooted in the Hebrew understanding of life after death. 6. Warning to Friends Job warns his friends of the consequences of their judgmental attitudes. In Job 19:28-29, he cautions, "If you say, ‘How shall we persecute him, since the root of the matter lies with him?’ then you should fear the sword yourselves, because wrath brings punishment by the sword, so that you may know there is a judgment." The Hebrew word for "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) underscores the divine justice that awaits. Prayer Points Pray for those who feel isolated and abandoned, that they may experience God's comforting presence. Ask God to strengthen your faith, especially during times of trial, and to help you trust in His ultimate redemption. Pray for the wisdom and compassion to support others in their suffering, offering empathy and understanding. Thank God for the hope of seeing Him face to face and for the assurance that our Redeemer lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Job 19:25’s reference to a “Redeemer” be historically or archaeologically validated, given the era in which Job is said to have lived? 2. If Job 19:27 implies a personal, bodily resurrection, does this conflict with other Old Testament notions of the afterlife? 3. Why does an all-powerful God remain silent throughout Job’s suffering, as implied in Job 19:7–10, and allow such extreme torment? 4. How do we reconcile the justice of God in Job 19 with the apparently unjust and arbitrary suffering Job endures? 5. Is there any non-biblical evidence supporting Job’s extreme losses and subsequent restoration (Job 19:13–20), or does the account stand alone with no historical corroboration? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Job's lament in this chapter reflect the depths of human suffering? 2. How does Job's rebuke of his friends challenge our understanding of compassion in the face of someone else's suffering? 3. In verses 6-12, Job accuses God of causing his suffering. How does this align or conflict with your understanding of God? 4. How does Job's depiction of his isolation and despair in verses 13-22 relate to the experiences of loneliness in modern society? 5. How might you react if you were in Job's situation? 6. How does Job's unwavering faith in God's justice inspire you in your personal struggles? 7. How can Job's longing for his words to be recorded be applied to the importance of voicing one's struggles and suffering in modern times? 8. How does Job's hope in resurrection provide comfort in the face of personal or communal loss? 9. How can you apply Job's perseverance to your own life situations? 10. What do you think about Job's friends' reactions to his suffering? How does it relate to stigma and misunderstanding in current society? 11. How can Job's experience with suffering impact your understanding and response to social issues like poverty, illness, and discrimination? 12. How does Job's plea for understanding challenge our preconceived notions about the reasons behind others' suffering? 13. How might you embody Job's unwavering faith in your daily life? 14. What lessons can you learn from Job's defense of his personal integrity? 15. How can you use Job's experiences to cultivate compassion and empathy in your personal relationships? 16. How does Job's proclamation of faith shape your understanding of hope in adversity? 17. How can the themes and lessons from Job 19 be applied to contemporary issues such as mental health, social justice, or global crises? 18. How do you interpret the statement, "My Redeemer lives," in the context of your faith or spiritual journey? 19. How can Job's faith amidst suffering inform your approach to difficult circumstances in life? 20. What insights from Job 19 might influence your understanding of God's role in human suffering and redemption? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions