Job 37:20 (KJV)

What does Job 37:20 mean?

Job 37:20 expresses the idea that no one can approach God with words or accusations without fear, because to do so would be overwhelming or even dangerous. The verse suggests that if a person tried to speak to God about His actions or question Him, that person would be "swallowed up," or undone by the encounter.

In context, Elihu is speaking to Job and his friends, emphasizing the greatness and unapproachable majesty of God. Elihu points out that it is not for humans to question or challenge God, since His power and wisdom are far beyond human understanding. The verse highlights the gap between God and people, and the humility required when thinking about speaking to God.

The Hebrew behind Job 37:20

• "told" (סָפַר, saphar): This word means to recount or declare. Here, it emphasizes the idea of someone daring to report or present their words before God, highlighting how bold or risky that would be.
• "speak" (דָּבַר, davar): This verb means to speak or converse. The use here points to the act of addressing God directly, which Elihu suggests is not something to be taken lightly.
• "man" (אִישׁ, ish): This word simply means a man or person, underlining the frailty and smallness of humans compared to God.
• "speak" (אָמַר, amar): This is another common word for "say" or "utter." Its use in this verse shows the simple act of speaking, which, when directed at God, becomes a weighty matter.
• "up" (בָּלַע, bala): This verb means to swallow or engulf. The image is of a person being overwhelmed or consumed, stressing the danger or impossibility of standing before God and speaking presumptuously.

Why Job 37:20 matters

• Job 37:20 helps clear up the idea that humans can approach God as equals or demand answers from Him, showing the vast difference between God's greatness and human limitation.
• The verse emphasizes humility and caution when thinking about questioning God, which is a key theme in the speeches of Elihu and the book of Job as a whole.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by setting up the coming appearance of God Himself, preparing the reader for the awe and humility that encounter will require.