Job 13:20

20 "Only grant two things to me, God; then I won't hide myself from your face -

Job 13:20 Meaning and Commentary

Job 13:20

Only do not two [things] unto me
This is an address not to Zophar as in the place of God, as to me, but to God himself; by this it appears, that though in modesty he does not mention him, yet he it is he has the chief, if not the sole regard unto in ( Job 13:19 ) ; for his desire was to speak to the Almighty, and reason with God, and have nothing more to do with his friends, ( Job 13:3-5 ) ; but before any pleadings begin on either side, he is desirous of settling and fixing the terms and conditions of the dispute; he requests that two things might be granted him, which are mentioned in ( Job 13:21 ) :

then will I not hide myself from thee;
through fear or shame, but boldly appear before God, and come up even to his seat, and plead with him face to face.

Job 13:20 In-Context

18 Here, now, I have prepared my case; I know I am in the right.
19 If anyone can contend with me, I will be quiet and die!
20 "Only grant two things to me, God; then I won't hide myself from your face -
21 take your hand away from me, and don't let fear of you frighten me.
22 Then, if you call, I will answer. Or let me speak, and you, answer me!
Complete Jewish Bible Copyright 1998 by David H. Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.