Job 36:13 (KJV)

What does Job 36:13 mean?

Job 36:13 describes people who are insincere or stubborn in their hearts, saying they store up anger and do not call out to God for help when they are suffering or restrained. The verse points out that these people respond to hardship with bitterness rather than turning to God.

In this part of the book, Elihu is speaking to Job and his friends, explaining how different kinds of people react to God's discipline or correction. Elihu says that those who are "hypocrites in heart" (meaning people who are not genuine inside) only become more angry when God allows trouble in their lives, instead of seeking God or asking for relief. This sets up a contrast with those who respond to suffering with humility or prayer.

The Hebrew behind Job 36:13

• "hypocrites" (חֲנֵפִים, ḥănēfîm): This word often means people who are godless, insincere, or morally corrupt, not just people who pretend. Here, it highlights an inner attitude of stubbornness or rebellion.
• "heart" (לֵב, lēv): In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of a person's will and emotions, not just feelings. The focus is on people whose core attitude is wrong.
• "heap up" (שָׂם, sām): This verb means to put, place, or set. In this verse, it describes storing up or accumulating anger, showing that the reaction is ongoing, not just a momentary feeling.
• "wrath" (אַף, ʾaf): This word literally means "nose" or "anger," often used for intense anger or rage. The verse pictures people building up this kind of anger inside.
• "cry" (שָׁוַע, shāvaʿ): This verb means to cry out for help, especially in distress. The verse points out that these people do not call out to God when they are suffering.
• "bindeth" (אָסַר, ʾāsar): This means to bind or restrain, often used for being put in chains or held back. Here, it refers to God allowing trouble or restriction in someone's life.

Why Job 36:13 matters

• Job 36:13 clarifies that the problem is not just outward behavior but an inward attitude—people can be stubborn or rebellious in their hearts even if they appear religious.
• The verse shows that suffering can lead to different responses: some people become bitter and refuse to seek help, while others may turn to God. This helps explain why not everyone grows or changes in hardship.
• In the context of Elihu's speech, Job 36:13 sets up a contrast between those who resist God and those who respond to Him, helping the reader understand the broader point Elihu is making about how people should react to suffering.