Old Testament
Job 13:25
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, Job is questioning God about His treatment of fragile and insignificant things, comparing himself to a leaf that is easily blown about and dry stubble that is worthless.
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Will you break a leaf driven to and fro? And will you pursue dry stubble?
Wilt thou break a leaf driven to and fro? and wilt thou pursue the dry stubble?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job is questioning God about His treatment of fragile and insignificant things, comparing himself to a leaf that is easily blown about and dry stubble that is worthless. Job is expressing his feeling of vulnerability and insignificance in the grand scheme of life. He is essentially asking if God would be so harsh as to crush something so delicate and unimportant. This reflects Job's struggle with his suffering and his desire for understanding from God. He feels that his life, like a leaf or dry stubble, is easily tossed around by circumstances and that he is being pursued or attacked without reason. Job's rhetorical questions highlight his sense of injustice and the feeling that he is being treated unfairly by God, who he believes should show compassion rather than aggression towards those who are weak and suffering.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Job 13:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own struggles and feelings of vulnerability. It reminds us that even in our weakest moments, we can question God and seek understanding. We should remember that God cares for the fragile and the suffering, and we can find comfort in His compassion.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 13:25 mean about vulnerability?
In Job 13:25, Job uses the imagery of a leaf and dry stubble to express his feelings of vulnerability and insignificance. He questions whether God would be so harsh as to crush something so delicate and worthless, reflecting his struggle with suffering and the feeling of being unjustly treated. This verse highlights the human experience of feeling small and powerless in the face of life's challenges.
How does Job 13:25 relate to suffering?
Job 13:25 relates to suffering by illustrating Job's deep sense of injustice regarding his own pain. He feels like a fragile leaf tossed by the wind, questioning why God would pursue him when he feels so insignificant. This verse encapsulates the struggle many face when grappling with suffering, as it raises questions about divine justice and the nature of God's care for those who are weak.
What can we learn from Job's questions in this verse?
From Job's questions in Job 13:25, we learn that it is okay to express our feelings of vulnerability and to question God during difficult times. Job's rhetorical questions invite us to reflect on our own struggles and remind us that seeking understanding from God is a part of faith. This verse encourages honesty in our relationship with God, especially when we feel overwhelmed by life's challenges.
Why does Job compare himself to a leaf and dry stubble?
Job compares himself to a leaf and dry stubble to emphasize his fragility and worthlessness in the grand scheme of life. A leaf is easily blown away, and dry stubble has little value, symbolizing how Job feels in his suffering. This comparison serves to highlight his sense of injustice and the emotional turmoil he experiences as he questions why God would target someone so weak and insignificant.
The Book of Job
Job 1: Job's Integrity and First Test
Job lives in the land of Uz and is known for fearing God and turning away from evil. He has seven sons, three daughters, and great wealth. His sons hold feasts in their homes, and Job regularly sends for them and offers burnt offerings in case any of them sins in their hearts.
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