Understanding Job 27:20

Job 27:20 states:

"Terrors take hold on him as waters, a tempest stealeth him away in the night."

Summary of Meaning

This verse captures the somber reality of Job's state during his discourse about divine justice and personal suffering. Here, Job describes the overwhelming experience of terror akin to tumultuous waters that can sweep one away unexpectedly, symbolizing the grievous state of despair he finds himself in.

Thematic Analysis

Job 27:20 is rich in themes of fear, divine judgment, and the transient nature of human experience when faced with adversity. This passage resonates profoundly with the broader narrative of the Book of Job, where themes of suffering, faith, and the quest for understanding divine purpose are explored. Job’s use of the metaphor of water reflects not only the overwhelming nature of his despair but also hints at the destructive forces that can quickly change one’s circumstances.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: In his analysis, Henry details how Job articulates the terror he faces as a manifestation of God’s profound judgments upon him. He highlights that this description serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of man before divine will.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the suddenness and unexpectedness of the troubles depicted in the verse. He points out that Job's metaphor of a tempest reflects the unpredictable nature of human suffering and life itself.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke notes that Job uses these vivid images to express not only his current tribulations but also to encourage reflections on the nature of divine retribution and the justice of God amidst human turmoil.

Cross-References

To better understand Job 27:20, we can identify several relevant cross-references:

• Psalm 69:1-2: "Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul." This verse reflects a similar theme of overwhelming distress.
• Lamentations 3:54: "Waters flowed over mine head; then I said, I am cut off." This showcases a parallel in experiencing calamity and despair.
• Isaiah 43:2: “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee.” Here, the assurance of God’s presence in times of trouble contrasts sharply with Job's feelings of abandonment.
• Matthew 8:24: “And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea.” This reflects on the sudden nature of life's storms that can strike at any moment.
• Luke 21:25: “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity." This alludes to the universality of distress and fear across humanity.
• Job 30:25: “Did not I weep for him that was in trouble? Was not my soul grieved for the poor?” This statement reflects Job's own empathy against the backdrop of his extreme suffering.
• Psalm 88:15: “I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors, I am distracted.” This further illustrates the internal struggle and despair akin to Job's experience.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Studying Bible verses in context can be enriched using various tools:

• Bible concordance
• Bible cross-reference guide
• Cross-reference Bible study methods
• Comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials

Connecting Themes Across the Scriptures

This verse prompts us to consider the inter-Biblical dialogue between themes of despair and hope. Job's lament is echoed in the experiences of various biblical figures who faced monumental challenges. The connections between Job's plight and the life of Christ, for instance, can provide deeper insights into the nature of suffering and redemption.

Practical Applications

When studying this verse, individuals may find value in reflecting on their own experiences of fear and despair, recognizing the fragility of human life, and the ever-present need for divine assistance. The cross-referenced verses enhance understanding by situating Job's feelings within the broader biblical narrative of God's relationship with humanity during times of hardship.

Ultimately, Job 27:20 serves as a poignant reminder of the tumultuous nature of the human experience, yet it also invites believers to engage deeply with the text, prompting reflection on spiritual truths through the practice of cross-referencing Biblical texts.