Then call me, and I will answer
In this phrase, Job expresses his desire for a direct dialogue with God. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice where individuals sought divine communication through prayer or other means. Job's request for God to call him indicates his readiness to defend his integrity and righteousness. This mirrors the relationship between God and His people, where God often initiates communication, as seen in the calling of prophets like Samuel (1 Samuel 3:4-10). Job's confidence in answering God also highlights his belief in his innocence and his desire for vindication.

or let me speak, and You can reply
Here, Job seeks an opportunity to present his case before God, akin to a legal setting where both parties have the chance to speak. This reflects the judicial practices of the time, where a defendant could plead their case before a judge. Job's request for God to reply underscores his belief in God's justice and fairness. This dialogue format is reminiscent of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God listens and responds to His people's cries, as seen in the Psalms (Psalm 4:1). Job's plea also foreshadows the mediatory role of Jesus Christ, who intercedes on behalf of humanity, providing a way for direct communication with God (Hebrews 7:25).

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. God
The Almighty Creator, whom Job is addressing in this verse. Job desires a direct dialogue with God to understand his suffering.

3. The Land of Uz
The setting of the Book of Job, traditionally considered to be in the region of Edom or northern Arabia.

4. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer comfort but end up arguing with him about the reasons for his suffering.

5. The Heavenly Court
The unseen realm where God and Satan discuss Job's faithfulness, setting the stage for Job's trials.Desire for Divine Dialogue
Job's request to speak with God highlights the importance of seeking a personal relationship with the Creator. Believers are encouraged to bring their questions and concerns to God in prayer.

Faith Amidst Silence
Even when God seems silent, like in Job's situation, faith requires trusting in His wisdom and timing. This teaches patience and perseverance in trials.

The Role of Honest Prayer
Job's candidness with God demonstrates that honest and heartfelt prayer is valued. Believers should feel free to express their true feelings to God.

Understanding Suffering
Job's plea for answers reflects the human struggle to understand suffering. This encourages believers to seek God's perspective and comfort in difficult times.

God's Sovereignty and Wisdom
While Job desires answers, the broader account reminds us of God's ultimate wisdom and sovereignty, which surpass human understanding.Verse 22. - Then call thou, and I will answer. "Then" - when I am free from suffering, both mental and bodily - implead me, bring thy charges against me, and I will answer them. As Mr. Fronds observes, "Job himself had been educated in the same creed" as his comforters; "he, too, had been taught to see the hand of God in the outward dispensation" ('Short Studies,' vol. 1. p. 300). He therefore assumes that God will have a particular charge to make against him, in connection with each of the calamities that have come on him, and he is prepared to face these changes and confute them. At the same time, he is undoubtedly much confused and perplexed, not knowing how to reconcile his traditional belief with his internal consciousness of innocence. Or let me speak, and answer thou me. "Let me," i.e. "take the initiative, if thou preferrest it so - let me ask the questions, and do thou answer."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Then call me,
וּ֭קְרָא (ū·qə·rā)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 7121: To call, proclaim, read

and I
וְאָנֹכִ֣י (wə·’ā·nō·ḵî)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 595: I

will answer,
אֶֽעֱנֶ֑ה (’e·‘ĕ·neh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 6030: To answer, respond

or
אֽוֹ־ (’ōw-)
Conjunction
Strong's 176: Desire, if

let me speak,
אֲ֝דַבֵּ֗ר (’ă·ḏab·bêr)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

and You can reply.
וַהֲשִׁיבֵֽנִי׃ (wa·hă·šî·ḇê·nî)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again


Job 13:22 NIV
Job 13:22 NLT
Job 13:22 ESV
Job 13:22 NASB
Job 13:22 KJV

Job 13:22 BibleApps.com
Job 13:22 Biblia Paralela
Job 13:22 Chinese Bible
Job 13:22 French Bible
Job 13:22 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Job 13:22 Then call and I will answer (Jb)