Question 1

What does Job 13:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Job 13:20 shows Job asking God for just two things, promising that if God grants these requests, Job will not try to avoid or hide from God. Job wants a fair chance to speak openly with God without fear or intimidation. In this verse, Job is speaking directly to God during his suffering, longing for an honest conversation. Job is not demanding relief from his pain, but rather asking for conditions that would allow him to present his case honestly before God. This request comes as Job tries to defend his integrity and understand his suffering, showing his deep desire for a genuine encounter with God.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Job 13:20

Accepted Answer

"do" (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This word means "to do" or "to act." Here, Job is asking God not to "do" two specific things to him, emphasizing his plea for certain conditions to be met. "two" (שְׁתַּיִם, shĕtayim): The word for "two" highlights that Job is making a very specific and limited request, not asking for many things but just two. "hide" (סָתַר, satar): This word means "to hide" or "to conceal." Job promises he will not hide himself from God, showing his willingness to be open and honest if God grants his request. "thee" (פָּנֶיךָ, paneka): This word refers to "your face" or "your presence." Job is saying he will not hide from God's presence, underlining the personal and direct nature of his appeal.

Question 3

Why Job 13:20 matters

Accepted Answer

Job 13:20 clarifies that Job's main concern is not escaping suffering, but having a fair opportunity to speak with God without fear, which highlights Job's integrity and courage. The verse sets up the next few verses, where Job will specify the two things he wants from God, helping readers follow the flow of Job's argument. This moment shows Job's relationship with God as deeply personal—he is willing to face God honestly if only certain intimidating barriers are removed.

Job 13:20 (KJV)