Hebrew-English Text
I. Summary
Job continues his fourth speech in chapter 13. He tells his friends that they have falsely accused him, and that they don’t understand God. Job then demands God to list any sins that he has supposedly committed.
II. Photo
Job confronts God: “Why do You hide Your face, and treat me like an enemy? Will You harass a driven leaf, will You pursue dried-up straw?” (vv. 24-25)
III. Important Verses
vv. 2-3: What you know, I know also; I am not less than you. Indeed, I would speak to the Almighty; I insist on arguing with God.
v. 5: If you would only keep quiet It would be considered wisdom on your part.
v. 7: Will you speak unjustly on God’s behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for Him?
v. 12: Your briefs are empty platitudes; Your responses are unsubstantial.
v. 15: He may well slay me; I may have no hope; Yet I will argue my case before Him.
vv. 22-24: Then summon me and I will respond, Or I will speak and You reply to me. How many are my iniquities and sins? Advise me of my transgression and sin. Why do You hide Your face, And treat me like an enemy?
v. 25: Will You harass a driven leaf, Will You pursue dried-up straw
IV. Outline
1-12. Confronting the friends
13-19. Preparing to confront God
20-28. Confronting God
V. Comment
Job continues his fourth speech in chapter 13. He accuses his friends of inaccurately defending God (vv. 1-12), prepares to confront God (vv. 13-19), and then finally enters into a “court case” with God (vv. 20-28). In terms of structure, there is a turn from addressing the friends to addressing God, and that occurs at vv. 19-20. There is also a heavy use of legal terminology (vv. 3, 6, 8, 15, 18-19, and 22).
VI. Works Used
Clines, Job 1-20 (Word Biblical Commentary)
Photo taken from http://www.markmccoyphotography.com/images/water.leaf.med.over.jpg
