Job 35:13 (KJV)

What does Job 35:13 mean?

Job 35:13 says that God does not listen to empty or insincere words, and the Almighty does not pay attention to them. The verse warns that prayers or cries to God that lack honesty or substance will not receive a response from Him.

In this verse, Elihu is speaking to Job and his friends, responding to Job’s earlier complaints about God’s justice. Elihu is making the point that God is not obligated to answer prayers that are “vain” or meaningless. The verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity and truthfulness when approaching God, especially in times of distress or questioning.

The Hebrew behind Job 35:13

• “vanity” (שָׁוְא, shav’): This word often means emptiness, falsehood, or something without value. Here, it refers to prayers or words that are hollow or insincere, highlighting that God is not moved by empty speech.
• “hear” (שָׁמַע, shama’): This verb means more than just hearing sounds; it often carries the sense of paying attention or responding. The verse suggests God does not respond to or act on empty words.
• “regard” (שָׁעָה, sha’ah): This word means to look at, pay attention to, or consider. The verse stresses that God does not even give attention to insincere or worthless speech.

Why Job 35:13 matters

• Job 35:13 clarifies that not all prayers or cries to God are treated the same; sincerity and truthfulness matter to God, not just the act of speaking.
• The verse helps correct the idea that God is obligated to answer every request, especially those lacking genuine intent or honesty.
• In the context of Elihu’s speech, this verse challenges Job’s earlier frustration, reminding readers that God’s justice includes discernment about the heart behind words.