Job 16:21 - that he would maintain the right of a man with God, of a son of man with his neighbor!

Generated Verse: Job 16:21

What does "Job 16:21" mean?


Job 16:21 is a poignant cry from Job in the midst of his suffering, expressing his desire for a mediator between himself and God, and also between himself and his fellow humans. Let's break down the phrase:

"That he would maintain the right of a man with God..." This part is asking for someone (a mediator) to argue Job's case before God, to plead for his righteousness and innocence. Job feels unjustly punished and wants someone to stand up for him, ensuring he gets a fair hearing in the divine court. He believes he has been wronged by God and deserves justification. The word "right" here refers to justice, vindication, and being declared righteous.

"...of a son of man with his neighbor!" This extends the need for mediation to his human relationships. Job's suffering has alienated him from his friends. They accuse him of secret sin and distance themselves. He wants someone to advocate for him, to restore his reputation and relationships with his community, to show them he is not the wicked person they perceive him to be.

In essence, Job is yearning for:

A Divine Advocate: Someone to plead his case before God, arguing for his innocence and righteousness, and to restore his relationship with God.
A Human Advocate: Someone to speak on his behalf to his neighbors, to restore his reputation, and to mend broken relationships within his community.

Key Interpretations:

Desperation for Justice: The verse highlights Job's feeling of injustice and his desire for a fair hearing both from God and from people.
Need for Mediation: It emphasizes the importance of mediation in resolving conflicts and restoring relationships, both divine and human.
Foreshadowing of Christ: In Christian theology, this verse is often seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is considered the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, and who also embodies love and reconciliation between people.

Job feels utterly alone, without anyone to understand or defend him. This verse is a desperate plea for someone to champion his cause and restore his standing with both God and his fellow humans. It's a powerful expression of human need for justice, reconciliation, and understanding in the face of suffering.

What categories does "Job 16:21" have?