Job 6:22 - Did I say, ‘Give to me?’ or, ‘Offer a present for me from your substance?’

Generated Verse: Job 6:22

What does "Job 6:22" mean?


This verse from Job 6:22 is part of Job's desperate and increasingly frustrated defense against his friends' accusations. He's trying to prove to them that he's not seeking anything from them, particularly not out of greed or self-interest. Let's break it down:

"Did I say, ‘Give to me?’": This is a direct challenge. Job is asking if he has ever demanded anything from his friends. He's asserting that he hasn't been asking them for handouts or assistance.

"or, ‘Offer a present for me from your substance?’": This is a more nuanced way of saying the same thing. "Substance" refers to their wealth, possessions, or resources. Job is asking if he has ever requested a lavish gift or contribution from their personal wealth.

In essence, Job is vehemently denying that he is motivated by financial gain or that he is exploiting their friendship during his time of suffering.

The context is crucial:

Job's friends are subtly (and sometimes not-so-subtly) implying that his suffering might be a result of some hidden sin. They believe that the righteous are blessed and the wicked are punished, and since Job is suffering so greatly, he must have done something wrong.
Job is adamant that he is innocent. He is trying to understand why he is being punished so severely despite his righteousness.
He's frustrated because his friends are offering empty platitudes and moralizing judgments instead of genuine comfort and support. He feels they are adding to his misery by their accusations.

Therefore, this verse is a powerful statement by Job:

He's rejecting any suggestion that he's trying to profit from his misfortune.
He's emphasizing his integrity.
He's highlighting the shallowness and inadequacy of his friends' responses.
He is showing he's not looking for material things, but rather empathy and understanding.

He's essentially saying, "I'm not after your money. I'm just looking for someone to understand my pain and offer genuine support."

It's a poignant illustration of Job's desperation and his unwavering belief in his own righteousness in the face of unimaginable suffering.