Old Testament
Job 31:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
if I have lifted up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate—
Compare translations
If I have lifted up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate:
What Job 31:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job is expressing his integrity and moral responsibility. He is declaring that he has never acted unjustly towards the vulnerable, specifically the fatherless, who often rely on the kindness of others for support. The phrase 'when I saw my help in the gate' suggests that Job acknowledges the importance of community and justice, as the city gate was a place where legal matters were settled and help was sought. By lifting his hand against the fatherless, he would be acting against the very principles of justice and compassion that he values. Job is essentially saying that if he has ever harmed those who are defenseless, he would be guilty of a serious moral failing. This statement is part of a larger defense of his character, as he seeks to prove his righteousness amidst the accusations of his friends who believe his suffering is a result of sin.
How to apply Job 31:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we treat the vulnerable in our society. It challenges us to stand up for those who cannot defend themselves and to act with compassion and justice. We should seek to be a source of help and support for the fatherless and marginalized, ensuring that our actions align with our values.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Job
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Job 31:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Job 31:21
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 31:21 mean?
Job 31:21 expresses Job's commitment to justice and integrity, stating he has never harmed the fatherless, who are vulnerable and in need of protection. He emphasizes the importance of community support and moral responsibility.
What is the significance of 'lifting up my hand' in Job 31:21?
The phrase 'lifting up my hand' symbolizes taking action, often in a harmful way. In this context, Job is asserting that he has never acted unjustly against those who cannot defend themselves, particularly the fatherless.
What does 'when I saw my help in the gate' refer to in Job 31:21?
The phrase 'when I saw my help in the gate' refers to the city gate, a place where legal matters were addressed and support was sought. Job acknowledges the role of community in providing justice and assistance.
How does Job 31:21 relate to compassion?
Job 31:21 highlights the importance of compassion by emphasizing the need to protect and support the vulnerable, specifically the fatherless. It calls for moral responsibility towards those who are defenseless.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.