Job 19:23
Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book!
Original Language Analysis
מִֽי
H4310
מִֽי
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
1 of 9
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
יִתֵּ֖ן
oh that
H5414
יִתֵּ֖ן
oh that
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
2 of 9
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
אֵ֭פוֹ
were now
H645
אֵ֭פוֹ
were now
Strong's:
H645
Word #:
3 of 9
strictly a demonstrative particle, here; but used of time, now or then
וְיִכָּתְב֣וּן
written
H3789
וְיִכָּתְב֣וּן
written
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
4 of 9
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
מִלָּ֑י
my words
H4405
מִלָּ֑י
my words
Strong's:
H4405
Word #:
5 of 9
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
מִֽי
H4310
מִֽי
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
6 of 9
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
יִתֵּ֖ן
oh that
H5414
יִתֵּ֖ן
oh that
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
7 of 9
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern writing on stone, pottery, or papyrus provided permanence. Job's wish for written record reflects desire for vindication beyond his lifetime.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Job's written record comfort you in suffering?
- What does it mean that Scripture includes honest lament and accusation?
Analysis & Commentary
Job wishes 'Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book!' This desire for permanent record anticipates the book of Job itself. Job's suffering and defense become Scripture, making his words available for all who suffer.