I would plead my case before Him
In this phrase, Job expresses his desire to present his situation directly to God, akin to a legal proceeding. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice where individuals could present their grievances before a king or judge. Job's longing to plead his case highlights his belief in God's ultimate justice and fairness. This mirrors the biblical theme of God as the righteous judge, as seen in passages like Psalm 9:4, where God is depicted as sitting on His throne judging righteously. Job's confidence in approaching God also foreshadows the New Testament teaching of believers having direct access to God through Jesus Christ, as seen in Hebrews 4:16.

and fill my mouth with arguments.
Here, Job intends to present a well-reasoned and articulate defense of his innocence. The term "arguments" suggests a structured and logical presentation, indicating Job's deep conviction of his righteousness and his understanding of the legal customs of his time. This reflects the cultural context of ancient legal systems where oral arguments were crucial. Job's desire to argue his case can be seen as a precursor to the advocacy role of Christ, who intercedes on behalf of believers, as mentioned in 1 John 2:1. Additionally, this phrase underscores the biblical theme of seeking understanding and wisdom, as Job seeks to comprehend his suffering and God's purposes, paralleling the pursuit of wisdom found in Proverbs.

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, enduring immense suffering and seeking to understand his plight.

2. God
The Almighty Creator, whom Job desires to approach to present his case and seek understanding and justice.

3. Job's Friends
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, they are significant in the surrounding context as they attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom, often misrepresenting God's justice.

4. The Heavenly Court
An implied setting where Job envisions presenting his case before God, akin to a legal proceeding.

5. Suffering and Trials
The broader context of Job's life, marked by loss, pain, and a quest for divine justice and understanding.The Desire for Justice
Job's longing to present his case reflects a deep human desire for justice and understanding in the face of suffering. Believers are encouraged to seek God's justice, trusting in His ultimate wisdom and fairness.

The Importance of Honest Prayer
Job's willingness to "fill his mouth with arguments" demonstrates the importance of honest and open communication with God. Believers should feel free to express their true feelings and questions to God in prayer.

God's Accessibility
While Job feels distant from God, the New Testament assures believers of direct access to God through Jesus Christ. This access should encourage believers to approach God with their concerns and questions.

Faith Amidst Uncertainty
Job's situation teaches that faith does not always mean having all the answers. Trusting God amidst uncertainty is a vital aspect of a believer's journey.

The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth
Job's trials, while painful, are part of a larger account that can lead to deeper understanding and spiritual maturity. Believers are encouraged to view their own trials as opportunities for growth.Verse 4. - I would order my cause before him. Job has put away the feelings of shame and diffidence, which were predominant with him when he said, "How should man be just with God? If he will contend with him, he cannot answer him one of a thousand" (Job 9:2, 3); and again, "How much less shall I answer him, and cheese out my words to reason with him? Whom, though I were righteous, yet would I not answer; but I would make my supplication to my Judge" (Job 9:14, 15). He now wishes to contend and argue and reason. This is quite in accordance with our experience. Many am the moods of man - various and conflicting his desires! His mind never continues long in one stay. And fill my mouth with arguments (comp. Psalm 38:14, where our translators render the same word by "reproofs," but where "arguments" or "pleadings" would be more appropriate). The LXX. has there ἐλεγμοὶ, and in the present passage ἔλεγχοι. The word is forensic.

Parallel Commentaries ...


I would plead
אֶעֶרְכָ֣ה (’e·‘er·ḵāh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 6186: To set in a, row, arrange, put in order

my case
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט (miš·pāṭ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4941: A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, style

before Him
לְפָנָ֣יו (lə·p̄ā·nāw)
Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6440: The face

and fill my mouth
וּ֝פִ֗י (ū·p̄î)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 6310: The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to

with
אֲמַלֵּ֥א (’ă·mal·lê)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular
Strong's 4390: To fill, be full of

arguments.
תוֹכָחֽוֹת׃ (ṯō·w·ḵā·ḥō·wṯ)
Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 8433: Chastisement, correction, refutation, proof


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OT Poetry: Job 23:4 I would set my cause in order (Jb)