Job 13:20
Only do not two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee.
Original Language Analysis
אַךְ
H389
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
3 of 9
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תַּ֣עַשׂ
Only do
H6213
תַּ֣עַשׂ
Only do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אָ֥ז
H227
מִ֝פָּנֶ֗יךָ
myself from thee
H6440
מִ֝פָּנֶ֗יךָ
myself from thee
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
7 of 9
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
Historical Context
Theophanies in Scripture typically terrified those who experienced them (Isaiah 6, Ezekiel 1). Job's concern about conditions for meeting God reflects biblical realism about human inability to endure unmediated divine presence.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we balance bold confidence in approaching God with reverent fear of His majesty?
- What 'conditions' do we sometimes demand before we'll fully engage with God?
- How does Christ's mediation make it possible to approach God without the fear Job expresses?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Job makes two requests of God: 'Only do not two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee.' Despite his boldness, Job recognizes the need for specific conditions to stand before God. This shows both audacity (making demands of God) and humility (acknowledging limitations before divine majesty). The dialogue between confidence and fear characterizes authentic faith—approaching God boldly yet reverently.