Book of Job - Chapter 27 - Verse 20

When examining the verse "Terrors take hold on him as waters, a tempest stealeth him away in the night," it is important to consider the context in which it is found. This verse is from the book of Job in the Old Testament, specifically in chapter 27, verse 20. In this verse, the speaker describes the experience of someone who is overcome by fear and distress. The imagery of terrors taking hold like water and a tempest stealing them away in the night suggests a sudden and overwhelming sense of dread and chaos. The use of water and tempest as metaphors conveys the idea of being engulfed and carried away by forces beyond one's control.

It is believed that this verse reflects the anguish and despair of Job, who faced immense suffering and loss throughout the biblical narrative. Job's experiences serve as a testament to the unpredictable and oftentimes brutal nature of life. This verse can serve as a reminder of the fragility of human existence and the potential for our lives to be disrupted by unforeseen events. Ultimately, the verse conveys a sense of vulnerability and helplessness in the face of overwhelming adversity.

One possible theological interpretation of the verse “Terrors take hold on him as waters, a tempest stealeth him away in the night” (Job 27:20) could be that it speaks to the fears and uncertainties that can grip a person when they are facing difficult and challenging circumstances. The imagery of being taken away by a tempest in the night conveys a sense of sudden and overwhelming danger that can come when least expected. From a word study perspective, the use of “terrors” can be linked to feelings of fear and dread, while “waters” and “tempest” suggest chaotic and destructive forces. This verse could be seen as a reminder of the powerlessness of humans in the face of uncontrollable events, and to trust in God’s sovereignty even in times of distress.