Job 13:20

20 “O God, grant me these two things, and then I will be able to face you.

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 I have prepared my case; I will be proved innocent.

19 Who can argue with me over this? And if you prove me wrong, I will remain silent and die.

20 “O God, grant me these two things, and then I will be able to face you.

21 Remove your heavy hand from me, and don’t terrify me with your awesome presence.

22 Now summon me, and I will answer! Or let me speak to you, and you reply.