Old Testament
Job 16:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They have gaped upon me with their mouths; they have struck me upon the cheek reproachfully; they have gathered themselves together against me.
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They have gaped upon me with their mouth; they have smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully; they have gathered themselves together against me.
What Job 16:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job expresses his deep sense of betrayal and humiliation. He feels that people are openly mocking him, as if they are staring at him with contempt. The act of striking him on the cheek symbolizes not just physical pain but also a profound emotional insult, as the cheek is often associated with honor and respect. Job feels surrounded by those who have turned against him, gathering together to condemn him rather than offer support. This reflects his isolation and the intense suffering he is experiencing, both from his friends who have become adversaries and from his circumstances. Job's lament highlights the pain of feeling unjustly attacked and the struggle of maintaining dignity in the face of scorn. His words capture the raw emotion of someone who has lost everything and is grappling with the harsh judgments of others, emphasizing the theme of suffering and the quest for understanding in times of distress.
How to apply Job 16:10 to your life
When facing criticism or betrayal, it’s important to remember that others' judgments do not define our worth. We can seek support from those who truly care and focus on maintaining our integrity. Reflecting on Job's experience can help us navigate our own challenges with resilience and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Job 16:10
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 16:10 mean?
In Job 16:10, Job expresses feelings of betrayal and humiliation as he describes how people mock him and attack his dignity. He feels surrounded by those who condemn him instead of offering support, highlighting his intense suffering and isolation.
What is the meaning of 'gaped upon me with their mouths' in Job 16:10?
The phrase 'gaped upon me with their mouths' indicates that people are openly mocking and ridiculing Job. It conveys a sense of contempt and scorn directed at him during his time of suffering.
What does 'smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully' signify in Job 16:10?
The phrase 'smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully' symbolizes both physical pain and a deep emotional insult. Striking someone on the cheek is often associated with dishonor, emphasizing Job's feelings of humiliation and loss of respect.
How can Job 16:10 help us in difficult times?
Job 16:10 reminds us that facing criticism and betrayal is a common human experience. It encourages us to seek support from those who care and to focus on our integrity, even when others judge us harshly.
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