Job 31:16 (KJV)

What does Job 31:16 mean?

Job 31:16 describes Job declaring that he has never denied the poor what they needed or left a widow waiting in vain for help. Job is defending his character, saying he has not acted unjustly toward those who are vulnerable.

In this verse, Job is speaking about his own actions as part of a larger speech where he lists things he has not done wrong. He is talking to his friends, who have accused him of hidden sin. Job’s point is that he has always tried to be fair and compassionate, especially to people who are struggling or alone.

The Hebrew behind Job 31:16

• "withheld" (מָנַע, mana‘, H4513): This word means to hold back or refuse something. Job is saying he has not kept back what the poor needed from them.
• "poor" (דַּל, dal, H1800): This word refers to someone who is weak or needy, not just financially poor but vulnerable in any way. Job’s concern is for anyone who cannot help themselves.
• "desire" (חֵפֶץ, ḥēphets, H2656): This word means what someone longs for or needs. Job is not just talking about luxuries, but basic needs and hopes.
• "eyes" (עַיִן, ‘ayin, H5869): In Hebrew, the eyes "failing" is a way of saying someone is left waiting and disappointed, often looking for help that does not come.
• "widow" (אַלְמָנָה, ’almanah, H490): This word means a woman who has lost her husband and, in that culture, was especially vulnerable.
• "fail" (כָּלָה, kalah, H3615): This word can mean to waste away or be exhausted, often used for hope or expectation that is not fulfilled.

Why Job 31:16 matters

• This verse shows that Job’s idea of righteousness includes practical care for people in need, not just personal piety or religious rituals.
• Job’s defense highlights that true justice involves not only avoiding harm but also actively helping those who are most at risk.
• The verse connects to the broader chapter, where Job lists ways he has lived with integrity, challenging the idea that suffering is always the result of personal wrongdoing.