Old Testament
Job 6:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Is my help not within me? And is wisdom driven entirely from me?
Compare translations
Is not my help in me? and is wisdom driven quite from me?
What Job 6:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job is expressing a deep sense of despair and questioning the source of his strength and wisdom. He feels that he is in a situation where he cannot rely on himself for help or understanding. Job is grappling with his suffering and the feeling that he has no inner resources to draw upon. This reflects a moment of vulnerability where he acknowledges that his own wisdom and ability to cope are insufficient. Job's rhetorical questions highlight his isolation and the intensity of his suffering, suggesting that he is searching for answers and support in a time of great distress. This verse captures the essence of human struggle when faced with overwhelming challenges, emphasizing the need for external help and divine wisdom in times of trouble.
How to apply Job 6:13 to your life
In moments of struggle, we may feel like we have no strength or wisdom left. This verse reminds us to seek help beyond ourselves, whether through prayer, community support, or guidance from trusted sources. Acknowledging our limitations can lead us to find the strength we need.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Explore more of the Bible
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 Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 6:13
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 6:13
Related Bible verses
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 6:13 mean about self-reliance?
In Job 6:13, Job expresses his feeling of helplessness and the realization that he cannot rely on his own strength or wisdom during his suffering. This highlights the theme of self-reliance versus the need for external support, suggesting that in times of distress, we may need to look beyond ourselves for help and understanding.
How can Job 6:13 apply to modern struggles?
Job 6:13 resonates with anyone facing overwhelming challenges today. It serves as a reminder that it's okay to acknowledge our limitations and seek help from others, whether through friends, family, or spiritual guidance. This verse encourages us to be vulnerable and open to receiving support when we feel lost or isolated.
What is the significance of wisdom in Job 6:13?
In this verse, wisdom represents not just knowledge but the ability to navigate life's challenges. Job's questioning of whether wisdom is driven from him reflects his deep despair and the feeling that he lacks the insight needed to cope with his suffering. It underscores the importance of seeking wisdom from external sources, especially during tough times.
How does Job 6:13 reflect feelings of isolation?
Job 6:13 captures a profound sense of isolation as Job feels he has no inner resources to draw upon. His rhetorical questions emphasize his loneliness in suffering, suggesting that he longs for connection and understanding from others or from God. This isolation is a common experience in human struggles, reminding us of the importance of community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.