Old Testament
Job 16:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He tears me in his wrath, who hates me; he gnashes upon me with his teeth; my enemy sharpens his eyes upon me.
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He teareth me in his wrath, who hateth me: he gnasheth upon me with his teeth; mine enemy sharpeneth his eyes upon me.
What Job 16:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 16:9, Job expresses his deep anguish and sense of betrayal. He feels that God, whom he once trusted, is now treating him as an enemy. The imagery of being torn apart in wrath suggests intense suffering and emotional pain. Job describes God as someone who is actively hostile towards him, using vivid language to convey his feelings of being attacked and judged. The mention of an enemy sharpening their eyes indicates a sense of being watched and targeted, heightening Job's feelings of vulnerability. This verse captures the essence of Job's struggle, as he grapples with the perception of divine abandonment while enduring immense suffering. It reflects the broader theme of questioning faith in the face of adversity, illustrating the human experience of feeling forsaken by God during times of trial.
How to apply Job 16:9 to your life
Job's lament reminds us that it's normal to feel abandoned or attacked during difficult times. When facing trials, we can express our feelings honestly to God, seeking comfort and understanding. This openness can lead to deeper faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
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 16:9
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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 16:9 mean?
In Job 16:9, Job expresses his feelings of being attacked by God, whom he perceives as an enemy. He describes his suffering and emotional pain, feeling betrayed and judged during his trials.
What is the meaning of 'tears me in his wrath' in Job 16:9?
The phrase 'tears me in his wrath' indicates Job's intense suffering and emotional turmoil. It reflects his belief that God is treating him harshly, causing him deep anguish.
What does 'my enemy sharpens his eyes upon me' mean in Job 16:9?
This phrase suggests that Job feels watched and targeted by an adversary, heightening his sense of vulnerability and isolation during his suffering.
How does Job 16:9 relate to themes of suffering and faith?
Job 16:9 illustrates the theme of suffering by showing Job's emotional pain and feelings of isolation. It highlights the struggle of maintaining faith when one feels forsaken during difficult times.
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