King James Version

What Does Job 19:1 Mean?

Job 19:1 in the King James Version says “Then Job answered and said,” — study this verse from Job chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Then Job answered and said,”

Job 19:1 · KJV

Context

1

Then Job answered and said,

2

How long will ye vex my soul, and break me in pieces with words?

3

These ten times have ye reproached me: ye are not ashamed that ye make yourselves strange to me. make: or, harden yourselves against me

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Then Job answered and said (וַיַּעַן אִיּוֹב וַיֹּאמַר, wayya'an 'iyyov wayyo'mar)—This formulaic introduction marks Job's ninth and longest reply to his friends. The verb עָנָה ('anah, 'to answer') implies not mere sequential response but deliberate engagement with their accusations.

Positioned after Bildad's brief third speech (18:1-21), Job's answer in chapter 19 represents a dramatic shift from defensive argument to visceral expression of suffering. The narrative structure emphasizes Job's isolation—he must continually 'answer' accusations rather than engage in genuine dialogue. This verse introduces what becomes Job's most famous discourse, climaxing in his confession of faith in the living Redeemer (19:25).

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Historical & Cultural Context

This exchange occurs in the second cycle of speeches (Job 15-21), where the friends' arguments have grown shorter and more hostile. Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature often employed dialogue format, but Job's friends fail the basic requirement of wise counsel—listening before speaking (James 1:19).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Job's continued willingness to 'answer' despite being misunderstood model perseverance in the face of bad counsel?
  2. When have you felt compelled to defend yourself repeatedly against those who should have been comforters?
  3. What does Job's formulaic response teach about maintaining dignity in suffering even when words seem futile?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וַיַּ֥עַן1 of 3

“answered”

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אִיּ֗וֹב2 of 3

“Then Job”

H347

ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience

וַיֹּאמַֽר׃3 of 3

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 19:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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