Only do not two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee.

JOB 13:20KJV
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Job 13:20 (KJV)

What does Job 13:20 mean?

Job 13:20 records Job asking God to spare him from two things so that he can face God and present his case. Job wants a chance to speak openly rather than shrink away from the one he is addressing.

The words “hide myself from thee” picture Job withdrawing from God’s presence. Job makes his request directly to God, rather than continuing his argument with his friends. The next verse names the two things he wants removed: God’s hand upon him and the terror that overwhelms him.

The Hebrew behind Job 13:20

  • “hide” — סָתַר (satar): This word can mean to conceal or hide. Here it helps picture Job drawing back from an encounter.
  • “thee” — פָּנִים (panim): This word often means “face” and can refer to someone’s presence. The KJV’s “from thee” conveys the sense of moving away from God’s presence.

Why Job 13:20 matters

  • Job is seeking a hearing, not merely an escape from pain. In verses 18–19, he has just spoken of presenting his case and asks who will argue against him.
  • Job sets out conditions for the exchange that follows. After naming the two things in verse 21, he asks God either to call and let him answer or to let him speak and receive a reply in verse 22.

Where else these words appear

“hide” Hebrew H5641 · used in 80 verses

  • Genesis 4:14 Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, that every one that findeth me shall slay me.
  • Psalms 13:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
  • Proverbs 28:28 When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.