Job 11:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 11:13
13 If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him;
Chapter Context
Job 11 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, sacrifice, discipleship. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 11:13
13 If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him;
Analysis
Zophar counsels: 'If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him.' The verb kun (כּוּן, prepare) means to establish, make ready, or set in order. Paras (פָּרַשׂ, stretch out) describes spreading hands in prayer—a posture of supplication. Zophar assumes Job hasn't properly repented, urging preparation of heart and prayer. The counsel is good in appropriate contexts but misapplied here—Job has already prayed and maintained integrity. Zophar's error demonstrates pastoral malpractice: giving correct general advice inappropriate for specific situations.
Historical Context
Stretching hands toward heaven was common ancient prayer posture, seen throughout Scripture (Exodus 9:29, 1 Kings 8:22, Psalm 88:9). Zophar's counsel reflects genuine piety but wrong diagnosis. He cannot accept that Job's suffering might not require repentance from specific sin. The advice would comfort someone convicted of sin but torments an innocent sufferer.
Reflection
- How do we avoid Zophar's error of offering correct general counsel that doesn't fit specific situations?
- What does this verse teach about the importance of proper diagnosis before prescribing spiritual remedies?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 7:3, Psalms 78:8, 88:9, 143:6