King James Version
Job 9:16 in the King James Version says “If I had called, and he had answered me; yet would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.” — study this verse from Job chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“If I had called, and he had answered me; yet would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.”
Job 9:16 · KJV
How much less shall I answer him, and choose out my words to reason with him?
Whom, though I were righteous, yet would I not answer, but I would make supplication to my judge.
If I had called, and he had answered me; yet would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.
For he breaketh me with a tempest, and multiplieth my wounds without cause.
He will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with bitterness.
KJV Study — Public Domain
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
“If I had called”
H7121to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
“and he had answered”
H6030properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“me yet would I not believe”
H539properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“that he had hearkened”
H238to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen
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.
Job 9:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Job 9:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge