Job 19:18 - Even young children despise me. If I arise, they speak against me.

Generated Verse: Job 19:18

What does "Job 19:18" mean?


This verse from Job 19:18 paints a picture of Job's utter degradation and isolation. Let's break it down:

"Even young children despise me." This is a powerful statement. Children are generally seen as innocent and not prone to harbor deep-seated hatred or resentment. The fact that even they despise Job highlights the extreme depth of his suffering and the extent to which he has become an object of contempt. It suggests that Job's condition or reputation has become so low that even the youngest members of society view him with disdain.

"If I arise, they speak against me." This emphasizes the constant barrage of negativity Job faces. The act of "arising" could be interpreted as simply getting up in the morning, or perhaps attempting to speak or assert himself in any way. But either way, their response is to speak ill of him. This highlights the relentless nature of his torment; he cannot even make a simple movement or gesture without being met with scornful and critical words.

In summary, the verse illustrates:

Extreme social alienation: Job has become an outcast, rejected even by the most innocent members of society.
Constant negativity and disrespect: He is met with constant opposition and verbal attacks, regardless of his actions.
The depths of his suffering: The verse amplifies the depth of Job's pain, showing how utterly humiliated and isolated he feels.

Context within the Book of Job:

This verse is part of a larger lament in which Job describes the many ways in which he has been afflicted. He has lost his wealth, his health, his family, and now even his social standing. Job believes that God is unfairly punishing him, even though he maintains his innocence. This verse underscores the fact that Job's suffering extends beyond physical pain to profound emotional and social pain.