King James Version

What Does Job 19:20 Mean?

“My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth. and to: or, as to”

Context

Yea, young children despised me; I arose, and they spake against me. young: or, the wicked

All my inward friends abhorred me: and they whom I loved are turned against me. my: Heb. the men of my secret

My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth. and to: or, as to

Have pity upon me, have pity upon me, O ye my friends; for the hand of God hath touched me.

Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20*)* **My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh **in one indistinguishable mass, and I have escaped with the skin of my teeth, because the teeth have no skin, or, as others explain, because the teeth have fallen out. This expression, which is by no means clear in the context, has passed into a proverb expressive of a very narrow escape—a meaning which can only by inference be obtained from this place in Job.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 19:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.