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Book of Job - Chapter 16 - Verse 12

16:12
I was at ease, but he hath broken me asunder: he hath also taken me by my neck, and shaken me to pieces, and set me up for his mark.

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of Job, Job is expressing his deep distress and suffering. He describes how he was once at ease, but has been shattered and broken by God. The imagery of being taken by the neck and shaken to pieces is a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming and destructive force of God's actions in his life. Job feels like he has been set up as a target for God's wrath, experiencing intense pain and anguish as a result. This verse highlights the theme of suffering and questioning God's actions that runs throughout the Book of Job. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and trials that individuals may face in life, and the need for faith and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

The verse "I was at ease, but he hath broken me asunder: he hath also taken me by my neck, and shaken me to pieces, and set me up for his mark" from the book of Job (16:12) reveals the profound suffering and turmoil experienced by Job. The phrase "broken me asunder" signifies a complete and devastating shattering of one's being. Job's sense of security and comfort has been utterly destroyed. The image of being seized by the neck and violently shaken to pieces depicts the intense and relentless trials that Job is enduring. Job feels as though he is being singled out and targeted by God for suffering, hence being "set up for his mark." This verse showcases the depth of Job's despair and the profound theological questions he grapples with as he navigates his suffering. Through theological interpretation and word studies, scholars delve into the nuances of the original Hebrew text to uncover the layers of meaning behind Job's poignant words and gain insights into the timeless themes of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

American Standard Version

I was at ease, and he brake me asunder; Yea, he hath taken me by the neck, and dashed me to pieces: He hath also set me up for his mark.
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