Job 42:13 (KJV)

What does Job 42:13 mean?

Job 42:13 records that Job was given seven sons and three daughters after his time of suffering. This verse highlights the restoration of Job’s family as part of how his fortunes were renewed at the end of his story.

In the book of Job, God is restoring Job’s life after his many losses. The verse is a simple statement in the narrative, showing that Job’s family was rebuilt with the same number of sons and daughters as he had before his trials. This detail is part of the broader account of Job’s restoration and blessing.

The Hebrew behind Job 42:13

• "seven" (שִׁבְעָה, shiv'ah): This word means "seven," and its use here matches the number of sons Job originally had, emphasizing a full restoration.
• "sons" (בֵּן, ben): The word for "sons" is the standard Hebrew term for male children, showing that Job’s male lineage was renewed.
• "three" (שָׁלוֹשׁ, shalosh): This is the Hebrew word for "three," matching the number of daughters Job had before, again pointing to a complete restoration.
• "daughters" (בַּת, bat): This is the usual Hebrew term for "daughters," highlighting that Job’s family included both sons and daughters, not just male heirs.

Why Job 42:13 matters

• Job 42:13 clarifies that Job’s restoration was not only material but also personal, involving the renewal of his family relationships.
• The verse shows that the restoration was complete, matching the exact numbers of children Job lost, which would have been significant to ancient readers.
• This detail connects to the wider theme of the book, where Job’s faithfulness is honored and his losses are reversed, showing a turning point from suffering to blessing.