Old Testament
Job 16:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
His archers surround me; he cleaves my kidneys apart and does not spare; he pours out my gall upon the ground.
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His archers compass me round about, he cleaveth my reins asunder, and doth not spare; he poureth out my gall upon the ground.
What Job 16:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job expresses his deep suffering and anguish. He uses the imagery of archers to describe how he feels attacked and surrounded by pain. The mention of his kidneys and gall symbolizes his inner turmoil and emotional distress. Job feels that God is not only allowing this suffering but is actively involved in it, as if God is cleaving his insides apart. The act of pouring out his gall signifies a complete loss of strength and vitality, as if his very essence is being spilled out. This vivid language illustrates Job's sense of betrayal and abandonment, as he grapples with the intensity of his suffering and the perceived silence of God in his plight. Job's lament highlights the struggle between faith and despair, as he seeks to understand why he is enduring such torment despite his righteousness.
How to apply Job 16:13 to your life
Job's experience teaches us that it's okay to express our pain and confusion to God. In times of suffering, we can be honest about our feelings, seeking understanding and comfort. This openness can lead to deeper faith and reliance on God, even when we feel abandoned.
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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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Job 16:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 16:13 mean?
In Job 16:13, Job describes his intense suffering, using the metaphor of archers to illustrate how he feels attacked and surrounded by pain. He conveys a sense of betrayal, feeling that God is actively involved in his torment.
What is the significance of 'gall' in Job 16:13?
The mention of 'gall' in Job 16:13 symbolizes Job's deep emotional pain and loss of vitality. It represents his inner turmoil and the feeling that his very essence is being spilled out due to his suffering.
What does Job express in this verse?
In this verse, Job expresses his anguish and sense of isolation. He feels overwhelmed by his suffering and perceives God as being indifferent or even complicit in his pain.
How does Job 16:13 relate to themes of suffering?
Job 16:13 highlights the theme of suffering by illustrating the depth of Job's emotional and physical pain. It reflects the struggle between faith and despair, as Job grapples with his circumstances.
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