Job 13:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 13:7
7 Will ye speak wickedly for God? and talk deceitfully for him?
Chapter Context
Job 13 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, wisdom, redemption. 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
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 13:7
7 Will ye speak wickedly for God? and talk deceitfully for him?
Analysis
Job accuses his friends: 'Will ye speak wickedly for God? and talk deceitfully for him?' This charges them with false witness under guise of defending God. Their theology, though orthodox in content, becomes wicked through misapplication to Job's innocent suffering.
Historical Context
Ancient legal systems severely punished false witness. Job's charge that the friends speak 'wickedly for God' reveals how truth can become lie through wrong application.
Reflection
- How can defending God with wrong theology actually dishonor Him?
- When does speaking for God become speaking against truth?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 36:4