Job 13:3
Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire to reason with God.
Original Language Analysis
אֲדַבֵּ֑ר
I would speak
H1696
אֲדַבֵּ֑ר
I would speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
5 of 9
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
וְהוֹכֵ֖חַ
to reason
H3198
וְהוֹכֵ֖חַ
to reason
Strong's:
H3198
Word #:
6 of 9
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
Cross References
Isaiah 41:21Produce your cause, saith the LORD; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob.Job 9:3If he will contend with him, he cannot answer him one of a thousand.Job 13:22Then call thou, and I will answer: or let me speak, and answer thou me.Job 31:35Oh that one would hear me! behold, my desire is, that the Almighty would answer me, and that mine adversary had written a book.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern legal systems allowed defendants to address judges directly. Job's appeal for divine audience reflects covenant relationship where God is both judge and partner.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you desired direct encounter with God rather than human intermediaries?
- What does it mean to 'reason' with God while maintaining reverence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Job declares 'Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire to reason with God.' This bold desire for direct address bypasses the friends' mediation. Job wants divine audience, not human commentary. The word 'reason' (yakach) suggests legal argument, revealing Job's confidence in his case.