Old Testament
Job 5:16
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So the poor has hope, and iniquity stops her mouth.
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So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth.
What Job 5:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job emphasizes the idea that the poor have a reason to hope despite their difficult circumstances. The mention of iniquity stopping her mouth suggests that wrongdoing or injustice cannot silence the hope that the poor possess. This hope is a powerful force that can uplift those who are suffering. It implies that even in the face of adversity, there is a promise of justice and restoration. The verse highlights the contrast between the despair often felt by the poor and the hope that can arise from faith and righteousness. It serves as a reminder that hope is not dependent on one's material wealth or social status, but rather on a deeper spiritual truth that transcends earthly troubles. This message encourages believers to maintain their faith and trust in God, who ultimately brings justice and hope to those who are oppressed or marginalized.
How to apply Job 5:16 to your life
In our daily lives, we can support those who are struggling by offering encouragement and assistance. We should remember that hope can be a powerful tool for those in need. By fostering a spirit of compassion and justice, we can help uplift the marginalized and provide them with a sense of hope.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Eliphaz Speaks First (Job 4:1–5:27)
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Job
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 5:16
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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 5:16 mean?
Job 5:16 conveys that the poor have hope despite their struggles, and that wrongdoing cannot silence this hope. It emphasizes the resilience of faith and the promise of justice for those who are oppressed.
What is the meaning of hope in Job 5:16?
In Job 5:16, hope represents the belief and expectation that better circumstances will come, even for the poor. It highlights the idea that hope is a powerful force that can uplift individuals facing adversity.
What does iniquity stopping her mouth mean in Job 5:16?
The phrase 'iniquity stops her mouth' in Job 5:16 suggests that wrongdoing or injustice cannot silence the hope of the poor. It implies that despite the presence of injustice, hope remains unshaken.
How can we apply Job 5:16 in our lives?
We can apply Job 5:16 by supporting those in need through encouragement and assistance. By fostering compassion and justice, we help uplift marginalized individuals and instill a sense of hope.
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