Job 10:13
And these things hast thou hid in thine heart: I know that this is with thee.
Original Language Analysis
צָפַ֣נְתָּ
And these things hast thou hid
H6845
צָפַ֣נְתָּ
And these things hast thou hid
Strong's:
H6845
Word #:
2 of 7
to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk
יָ֝דַ֗עְתִּי
I know
H3045
יָ֝דַ֗עְתִּי
I know
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
4 of 7
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom recognized human limitations before divine mysteries. 'Hidden' wisdom or counsel was common theme (Proverbs 25:2). Job's acknowledgment of divine purposes beyond his understanding reflects this wisdom tradition while adding personal urgency—he's living the mystery, not merely contemplating it.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we trust God's hidden purposes when His revealed actions seem to contradict His revealed character?
- What does Job's conviction of divine intentionality teach about maintaining faith despite incomprehension?
- In what ways does Scripture's fuller revelation help us trust God's hidden purposes more than Job could?
Analysis & Commentary
Job discerns hidden divine purpose: 'And these things hast thou hid in thine heart: I know that this is with thee.' The phrase 'hid in thine heart' (tsaphan be-lebabeka, צָפַן בְּלְבָבְךָ) means concealed in inner counsel. 'I know' (yada, יָדַע) expresses conviction despite lack of full understanding. Job perceives God has purposes beyond his comprehension, hidden intentions that explain but don't justify his suffering.
This verse shows Job's theological sophistication. He doesn't deny divine purpose; he recognizes it while unable to access it. God's heart contains plans Job cannot read—a humbling admission. Job knows God has reasons but cannot discover them. This creates tension: faith trusts hidden purposes while wanting them revealed. Job maintains faith in divine intentionality while questioning divine methods.
The Reformed doctrine of God's secret will versus revealed will addresses this. Some divine purposes remain hidden (Deuteronomy 29:29); others are revealed in Scripture. Job lacked the fuller revelation we possess through Christ. We know what Job could only intuit: God's hidden purposes serve redemptive ends, working all things together for good (Romans 8:28). God's heart is love, even when His hand feels harsh.