Job 9:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 9:35
35 Then would I speak, and not fear him; but it is not so with me.
Chapter Context
Job 9 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, truth, prayer. 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 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 9:35
35 Then would I speak, and not fear him; but it is not so with me.
Analysis
Then would I speak, and not fear him (אֲדַבְּרָה וְלֹא אִירָאֶנּוּ, adab'rah v'lo ira'ennu)—Job longs for conditions allowing honest dialogue with God without terror. The verb 'speak' (dabar, דָּבַר) implies reasoned discourse, not mere complaint. 'Not fear him' (lo ira, לֹא אִירָא) expresses desire for conversation without dread. Job wants a courtroom where he can present his case without intimidation.
But it is not so with me (כִּי לֹא־כֵן אָנֹכִי עִמָּדִי, ki lo-khen anokhi immadi) acknowledges present reality: such conditions don't exist. The phrase 'it is not so' (lo-khen, לֹא־כֵן) means 'not thus' or 'not in this manner.' Job desires a mediator—someone to stand between him and God (9:33: 'Neither is there any daysman betwixt us'). This cry anticipates Christ as mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). Jesus makes possible what Job longed for: speaking to God without terror because our mediator has borne judgment. Hebrews 4:16 fulfills Job's desire: 'Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy.'
Historical Context
Ancient legal systems required plaintiffs to present cases before judges, but approaching deity was fraught with danger—no one could see God and live (Exodus 33:20). Job's dilemma was theological: how can mortals contend with the Almighty? Ancient Near Eastern religion offered no solution—gods were distant, capricious, unapproachable. Job's cry for a mediator (9:33, 16:19, 19:25) prepared Israel to recognize Christ, the one mediator between God and humans.
Reflection
- How does Christ's mediation fulfill Job's longing to speak with God without fear?
- In what ways do believers still struggle with approaching God boldly despite having Christ as mediator?