King James Version
What Does Job 19:23 Mean?
“Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! Oh: Heb. Who will give, etc”
Context
21
Have pity upon me, have pity upon me, O ye my friends; for the hand of God hath touched me.
22
Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?
23
Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! Oh: Heb. Who will give, etc
24
That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever!
25
For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(23) **Oh that my words were now written**!—Some understand this to refer to the words he is about to utter; by others they are interpreted generally. The former view is probably owing to the Christian acceptation given to them, and the consequently great importance attaching to them. Since, however, the three verses, Job 19:25-27, are manifestly more emphatic than any he has yet spoken, though they do not stand quite alone, there is no reason why it should not be especially these very words which he desires more than any others to have recorded. Perhaps the “now” = *here *shows this.
**Oh that they were printed.**—This points us to primitive time, when writing materials and the use of writing involved more or less of *engraving, *as, for instance, in later times was the case with tablets of wax.
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 19:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 19:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge