Old Testament
Job 16:14
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He breaks me with breach upon breach; he runs upon me like a giant.
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He breaketh me with breach upon breach, he runneth upon me like a giant.
What Job 16:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job expresses his deep anguish and suffering. He feels as though he is being attacked relentlessly, with each new wave of pain compounding the last. The imagery of a giant suggests overwhelming force and power, emphasizing Job's sense of helplessness. He perceives God as the one who is breaking him down, layer by layer, through continuous affliction. This reflects Job's struggle to understand why he is experiencing such intense suffering, despite his faithfulness. The repetition of 'breach upon breach' indicates that his troubles are not just isolated incidents but a series of ongoing hardships that leave him feeling crushed and defeated. Job's lament highlights the emotional and spiritual turmoil that accompanies suffering, as he grapples with the silence of God in the midst of his pain.
How to apply Job 16:14 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, we can relate to Job's feelings of despair. It's important to acknowledge our pain and seek support from others. Remember that expressing our struggles can lead to healing and understanding, both for ourselves and those around us.
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 16:14
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Key themes
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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 16:14 mean?
Job 16:14 expresses Job's feeling of being relentlessly attacked by suffering. He uses the imagery of a giant to convey the overwhelming nature of his pain and his sense of helplessness in the face of continuous affliction.
What is the meaning of 'breach upon breach' in Job 16:14?
'Breach upon breach' signifies that Job's troubles are not isolated incidents but rather a series of ongoing hardships that compound his suffering. This phrase highlights the cumulative nature of his pain and despair.
How does Job 16:14 relate to suffering?
Job 16:14 illustrates the intense suffering that can feel overwhelming and relentless. It shows how individuals may feel crushed by their circumstances, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual challenges that accompany such pain.
What themes are present in Job 16:14?
The themes present in Job 16:14 include suffering, helplessness, and the struggle to maintain faith amidst adversity. It highlights the emotional turmoil that comes with enduring continuous hardships.
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