Job 14:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 14:13
13 O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and remember me!
Chapter Context
Job 14 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, creation, 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 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 14:13
13 O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and remember me!
Analysis
Job's prayer 'O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past' reveals hope beyond death. The grave becomes a hiding place rather than final destination. Job envisions death as temporary concealment until God's anger subsides.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern death concepts generally emphasized permanence, but Job hints at resurrection hope that will flower in later revelation (Daniel 12:2, John 11:25).
Reflection
- How does viewing the grave as temporary hiding place change your view of death?
- What does it mean to wait for God's wrath to pass?
Word Studies
- Wrath: אַף (Aph) H639 - Wrath, anger
Cross-References
- Judgment: Acts 17:31
- Parallel theme: Genesis 8:1, Psalms 106:4, Isaiah 12:1, Mark 13:32, Luke 23:42, Acts 1:7