Job 16:21
O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour!
Original Language Analysis
וְיוֹכַ֣ח
O that one might plead
H3198
וְיוֹכַ֣ח
O that one might plead
Strong's:
H3198
Word #:
1 of 7
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
לְגֶ֣בֶר
for a man
H1397
לְגֶ֣בֶר
for a man
Strong's:
H1397
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
עִם
H5973
עִם
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
3 of 7
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
וּֽבֶן
pleadeth for his neighbour
H1121
וּֽבֶן
pleadeth for his neighbour
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 6:10That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.Isaiah 45:9Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?Romans 9:20Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?Job 13:3Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire to reason with God.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 legal systems provided advocates for those unable to defend themselves. Job's wish for such mediation before God anticipates 1 John 2:1 (Jesus as advocate).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ fulfill Job's longing for an advocate?
- What comfort comes from having someone who pleads your case before God?
Analysis & Commentary
Job's longing: 'O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour!' This desire for mediation echoes 9:33 and anticipates Christ's high priestly role. Job recognizes the need for someone who can bridge the divine-human gap.