when the Almighty was still with me
This phrase reflects Job's sense of divine favor and presence in his life before his trials began. In the Old Testament, the presence of God is often associated with blessing and protection, as seen in the lives of the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Job's lament here echoes the covenantal relationship God had with Israel, where His presence was a sign of His favor and guidance (Exodus 33:14). Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament promise of God's abiding presence through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). Job's longing for the Almighty's presence also prefigures the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity in the person of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).

and my children were around me
This phrase highlights the familial blessings Job enjoyed before his suffering. In the ancient Near Eastern context, having children was considered a sign of divine blessing and favor (Psalm 127:3-5). Job's children being around him signifies not only the joy and pride of parenthood but also the social and economic stability that a large family provided in that era. The loss of his children was one of the most profound aspects of Job's suffering, emphasizing the depth of his trials. This loss can be compared to the grief experienced by other biblical figures, such as Jacob mourning Joseph (Genesis 37:34-35). The restoration of Job's fortunes, including the blessing of more children at the end of the book (Job 42:13), serves as a testament to God's restorative power and foreshadows the ultimate restoration and reconciliation found in Christ.

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, known for his immense suffering and unwavering faith.

2. The Almighty (Shaddai)
A name for God emphasizing His power and sovereignty. In Hebrew, "Shaddai" conveys the idea of God as the all-powerful one who provides and protects.

3. Job's Children
Job had ten children, seven sons and three daughters, who were part of his life before his trials began. Their presence in Job's life is a symbol of blessing and prosperity.

4. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel. It is a place of both prosperity and later, profound suffering for Job.

5. Job's Trials
The series of calamities that befell Job, including the loss of his children, wealth, and health, which serve as the backdrop for his reflections in this chapter.The Presence of God as a Source of Comfort
Job's reflection on the Almighty being with him highlights the comfort and security found in God's presence. Believers are encouraged to seek and cherish God's presence in their lives.

Family as a Blessing
Job's mention of his children underscores the value of family as a blessing from God. Christians are reminded to appreciate and nurture their family relationships.

Reflecting on Past Blessings
Job's longing for the past can teach us to remember and be grateful for the blessings we have experienced, even amidst current trials.

Understanding God's Sovereignty
The use of "Shaddai" reminds us of God's ultimate power and control over our lives, encouraging trust in His plans and purposes.

Endurance Through Trials
Job's account is a testament to enduring faith through suffering. Believers are called to remain steadfast, trusting in God's eventual restoration and blessing.Verse 5. - When the Almighty was yet with me. These are terribly sad words. Job, in his afflictions, has come to look on the Almighty as no longer "with him " - no longer on his side; but rather against him, an enemy (see Job 6:4; Job 7:19; Job 9:17; Job 10:16, etc.). When my children were about me (comp. Job 1:2, 4, 5).

Parallel Commentaries ...


when the Almighty
שַׁ֭דַּי (day)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7706: The Almighty

was still
בְּע֣וֹד (bə·‘ō·wḏ)
Preposition-b | Adverb
Strong's 5750: Iteration, continuance, again, repeatedly, still, more

with me
עִמָּדִ֑י (‘im·mā·ḏî)
Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 5978: Against, by, from, me, mine, of, that I take, unto,

and my children
נְעָרָֽי׃ (nə·‘ā·rāy)
Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5288: A boy, lad, youth, retainer

were around me,
סְבִ֖יבוֹתַ֣י (sə·ḇî·ḇō·w·ṯay)
Adverb | first person common singular
Strong's 5439: A circle, neighbour, environs, around


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OT Poetry: Job 29:5 When the Almighty was yet with me (Jb)