Job 19:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 19:22
22 Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?
Chapter Context
Job 19 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, discipleship, mercy. 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 21-29: Conclusion and application
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 19:22
22 Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?
Analysis
'Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?' Job accuses friends of 'persecuting' (תִּרְדְּפֻנִי, tirdefuni—pursuing, chasing) him 'as God' (כְּמוֹ־אֵל, kemo-El) does, insatiable with his 'flesh' (מִבְּשָׂרִי, mibsari). This shocking accusation: they imitate God's apparent persecution. Proverbs 17:5 warns 'whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker.' By persecuting Job, they join what they perceive as God's judgment. But God isn't judging Job; they've misread the situation. This warns against joining perceived divine opposition to someone. We might be opposing God's own. The friends assumed their harshness partnered with God's justice; actually they opposed God's righteous servant.
Historical Context
Ancient peoples feared divine persecution and saw themselves as potential executors of divine will. Job accuses his friends of presuming to execute what they perceive as God's judgment against him.
Reflection
- How do we avoid presuming to execute what we perceive as God's judgment on others?
- What checks prevent us from joining what we think is God's opposition to someone?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 69:26