Job 16:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 16:20
20 My friends scorn me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God.
Chapter Context
Job 16 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, truth, wisdom. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 16:20
20 My friends scorn me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God.
Analysis
'My friends scorn me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God.' The contrast is devastating: 'friends' (מְרֵעָי, mere'ay) offer 'scorn' (לָעֲגִי, la'agi—mocking, derision) while Job's 'eye poureth out tears' (דָּלְפָה עֵינִי, dalefah eyni) to God. Human friendship fails precisely when most needed, leaving only God as refuge. Yet God seems distant (earlier verses). This is faith's crucible—friends fail, God feels absent, yet Job continues praying. Psalm 142:4 expresses similar isolation. The image of eyes pouring tears 'unto God' (אֶל־אֱלוֹהַּ, el-Eloah) shows prayer as the last refuge. The Reformed emphasis on God's faithfulness when all else fails undergirds persevering prayer. Job's weeping prayer models faith under maximum pressure.
Historical Context
Ancient culture highly valued friendship and community. Job's experience of scorn from friends would compound his suffering, leaving him socially isolated and religiously accused, with only direct appeal to God remaining.
Reflection
- How do we continue praying when both friends and God seem absent or hostile?
- What sustains faith when all human support systems fail?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H433 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 16:4, 17:2, Psalms 109:4, 142:2, Hebrews 5:7