Summary of Meaning

This verse encapsulates Job's emotional appeal to his friends amid his suffering. Job, who has endured immense pain and loss, pleads for compassion from those around him. The phrase "the hand of God hath touched me" indicates that he perceives his suffering not merely as a series of unfortunate events but as an act of divine intervention, which profoundly shapes his experience of anguish and isolation.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Notes that the repetition of "have pity" underscores Job's desperation for empathy. He feels abandoned by both God and friends, emphasizing the importance of compassion during trials.
• Albert Barnes: Highlights that Job's acknowledgment of God's hand in his affliction reveals a deep theological insight. Job understands that his suffering is permitted by God, which invites a wider discussion on the nature of suffering and divine justice.
• Adam Clarke: Comments on the communal aspect of Job's plight. Job's lament is not just for himself but reflects the human need for sympathy and support in difficult times.

Bible Verse Cross-References

Job 19:21 connects with several key biblical texts, providing a deeper understanding of the themes of suffering, empathy, and divine sovereignty:

• Psalms 34:18: "The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." - Similar themes of divine compassion in suffering.
• Psalms 147:3: "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." - Echoes God's attentive care for those in distress.
• Isaiah 53:3: "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." - Foreshadows the suffering servant motif, emphasizing shared human sorrow.
• Matthew 11:28: "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." - A call for those in anguish to seek solace in God.
• Romans 12:15: "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep." - Stresses the importance of empathy among the community of believers.
• 2 Corinthians 1:4: "Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble." - Highlights the reciprocal nature of comfort and compassion.
• Philippians 4:6-7: "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." - Invites believers to bring their worries to God in prayer.

Thematic Connections

The themes present in Job 19:21 resonate with the broader narrative of the Bible regarding suffering and divine justice:

• The Pity and Compassion of God: Across the scriptures, God is depicted as having a close affinity for the suffering (e.g., Exodus 3:7).
• The Universality of Human Suffering: Job’s plight exemplifies the human condition, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 where all endure seasons of pain.
• The Role of Community in Suffering: Job's call for compassion highlights the necessity of supportive relationships during trials, paralleled by Galatians 6:2.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

To effectively understand Job 19:21, one can employ tools for Bible cross-referencing, which enhance the study of scripture. Some recommended methods include:

• Utilizing a Bible concordance to find related verses that share thematic elements.
• Using a Bible cross-reference guide that offers insights into thematic connections.
• Employing cross-reference Bible study techniques to compare different passages that address suffering and divine justice.
• Adopting a Bible reference resource to support sermon preparation by identifying parallels and contrasts across scripture.

Conclusion

In Job 19:21, we see a profound human experience articulated in the struggle for understanding suffering and divine intervention. By connecting this verse with others, we not only deepen our insight into Job's plight but also explore the broader themes of compassion, empathy, and divine sovereignty present in the biblical narrative.