Old Testament

Habakkuk 1:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Habakkuk expresses confusion and frustration about God's apparent inaction in the face of evil.

Author
Habakkuk the prophet
Written
Around 610 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
The kingdom of Judah
CBTClear Bible Translation

Your eyes are too pure to approve of evil, and you cannot tolerate wrongdoing. So why do you put up with people who act treacherously? Why do you stay silent while the wicked devour those who are more righteous than they are?

KJVKing James Version

Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Habakkuk expresses confusion and frustration about God's apparent inaction in the face of evil. He acknowledges that God is too pure to look upon evil and cannot tolerate wrongdoing. However, he questions why God seems to allow the wicked to prosper and harm those who are more righteous. This highlights a struggle with the problem of evil and the justice of God. Habakkuk is grappling with the reality that, despite God's holiness, it appears that the wicked are not being punished, and the righteous are suffering. This tension between God's nature and the reality of human injustice is a central theme in the book of Habakkuk, prompting deep reflection on faith and divine justice. Explore related righteousness.

How to apply Habakkuk 1:13 to your life

When faced with injustice and suffering, we can bring our questions and frustrations to God, just as Habakkuk did. It's important to seek understanding and maintain faith, trusting that God is aware of our struggles and will ultimately bring justice in His timing.

Curated for this public verse page. Habakkuk Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Habakkuk 1:13 mean?

Habakkuk 1:13 expresses the prophet's confusion about God's silence in the face of evil. He acknowledges God's purity and inability to tolerate wrongdoing, yet questions why God allows the wicked to harm the righteous.

What is the meaning of 'purer eyes' in Habakkuk 1:13?

The phrase 'purer eyes' refers to God's absolute holiness and inability to look upon evil. It emphasizes that God is morally perfect and cannot condone injustice or wrongdoing.

How does Habakkuk 1:13 relate to human suffering?

Habakkuk 1:13 reflects the frustration many feel when witnessing injustice and suffering. It shows that it's natural to question God's actions or inactions when the righteous are oppressed by the wicked.

What themes are present in Habakkuk 1:13?

Key themes in Habakkuk 1:13 include God's purity, the existence of evil and injustice, the silence of God in the face of wrongdoing, and the struggle of maintaining faith during difficult times.

The Book of Habakkuk
Book Summary

The Book of Habakkuk

Habakkuk 1: Habakkuk's Complaint and the LORD's Answer

The burden that Habakkuk the prophet sees begins with his complaint to the LORD. Habakkuk asks how long he must cry out about violence without being heard. He says destruction and strife surround him, the law is ignored, and justice never moves forward. The wicked surround the righteous, and judgment comes out twisted.

Premium

Unlock the full Habakkuk summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Habakkuk — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 3 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Habakkuk summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.