Job 20:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 20:13
13 Though he spare it, and forsake it not; but keep it still within his mouth:
Chapter Context
Job 20 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, hope, salvation. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 20:13
13 Though he spare it, and forsake it not; but keep it still within his mouth:
Analysis
The wicked cherish sin: 'Though he spare it, and forsake it not; but keep it still within his mouth.' Continuing the taste metaphor, the wicked won't swallow or spit out sin—they hold it in their mouth, savoring it. The Hebrew 'chamal' (spare) suggests protective attachment. This describes loving sin, not mere failure. While accurately depicting hardened sinners, this doesn't apply to Job, who genuinely sought righteousness.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom distinguished between stumbling in sin versus cherishing it. The righteous might fall but hate their sin; the wicked embrace and protect theirs. Zophar assumes Job must cherish hidden sin, unable to conceive of righteous suffering.
Reflection
- How do we distinguish between struggling with sin versus cherishing it?
- What does it mean to hate our sin while acknowledging ongoing struggle?
- How does the Gospel transform our relationship with sin from cherishing to mortifying it?