King James Version

What Does Job 6:23 Mean?

Or, Deliver me from the enemy's hand? or, Redeem me from the hand of the mighty?

Context

21

For now ye are nothing; ye see my casting down, and are afraid. ye are: or, ye are like to them: Heb. to it nothing: Heb. not

22

Did I say, Bring unto me? or, Give a reward for me of your substance?

23

Or, Deliver me from the enemy's hand? or, Redeem me from the hand of the mighty?

24

Teach me, and I will hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred.

25

How forcible are right words! but what doth your arguing reprove?

Commentary

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 14-30** In his prosperity Job formed great expectations from his friends, but now was disappointed. This he compares to the failing of brooks in summer. Those who rest their expectations on the creature, will find it fail when it should help them; whereas those who make God their confidence, have help in the time of need, He 4:16. Those who make gold their hope, sooner or later will be ashamed of it, and of their confidence in it. It is our wisdom to cease from man. Let us put all our confidence in the Rock of ages, not in broken reeds; in the Fountain of life, not in broken cisterns. The application is very close; "for now ye are nothing." It were well for us, if we had always such convictions of the vanity of the creature, as we have had, or shall have, on a sick-bed, a death-bed, or in trouble of conscience. Job upbraids his friends with their hard usage. Though in want, he desired no more from them than a good look and a good word. It often happens that, even when we expect little from man, we have less; but from God, even when we expect much, we have more. Though Job differed from them, yet he was ready to yield as soon as it was made to appear that he was in error. Though Job had been in fault, yet they ought not to have given him such hard usage. His righteousness he holds fast, and will not let it go. He felt that there had not been such iniquity in him as they supposed. But it is best to commit our characters to Him who keeps our souls; in the great day every upright believer shall have praise of God.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714). 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 6:23 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 6:23

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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