Job 13:22 (KJV)

What does Job 13:22 mean?

Job 13:22 shows Job asking God for a fair exchange: either God can call and Job will answer, or Job will speak and God will answer him. Job is seeking an honest, two-way conversation with God, where both sides have a chance to speak and respond.

In this verse, Job is speaking directly to God during his suffering, expressing a deep desire for dialogue rather than silence or judgment. Job wants clarity and fairness—he is willing to answer if God questions him, but he also wants God to answer if he brings his own questions. This reflects Job’s longing for justice and understanding in the midst of his pain.

The Hebrew behind Job 13:22

• The word "call" (קָרָא, qara) often means to summon or invite someone to speak or act. Here, it shows Job’s openness to being questioned by God.
• The word "answer" (עָנָה, ‘anah) means to respond or reply. Job uses it for both himself and God, emphasizing his hope for a real exchange where both parties respond to each other.
• The word "speak" (דָּבַר, dabar) means to declare or communicate. Job is asking for the chance to present his side directly to God.
• The second "answer" (שׁוּב, shuv) can mean to return or reply. In this context, it highlights Job’s desire for God to respond thoughtfully to his words, not just to speak but to engage.

Why Job 13:22 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that Job is only complaining; instead, Job is respectfully seeking a fair hearing and honest answers from God.
• Job 13:22 highlights Job’s courage and his belief that a true relationship with God should involve open communication, even in suffering.
• The verse connects to the wider passage where Job insists on his integrity and his right to question what is happening to him, showing his deep trust in God’s justice.