Job 19:20

Basque (EAB) 2008 (Elizen Arteko Biblia (Biblia en Euskara, Traducción Interconfesional))

Hezurra eta azala besterik ez naiz, ozta-ozta jarraitzen dut bizirik.

What Does This Mean?

Job is speaking and he is describing how sick and weak he has become. He is so thin that his bones are almost touching his skin, and his teeth are barely hanging on, suggesting he has survived only by a narrow margin.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're so sick that you can see your bones under your skin, and your teeth feel like they might fall out. Job is saying he's survived, but just barely, like you might survive a scary ride on a roller coaster by holding on tight to the safety bar.

Historical Background

The Book of Job was written by an unknown author, possibly during the Patriarchal Period, around 2000-1500 BC. It was written for the Israelite audience to understand the nature of suffering and faith in God during difficult times.

Living It Out Today

In a modern scenario, this verse can apply to someone who has survived a serious illness or a near-death experience. They might feel incredibly weak and frail, much like Job, but they have survived by a slim margin, clinging to hope and faith.

Topics

• suffering
• faith
• perseverance
• hope
• endurance
• weakness

Related Verses

• Psalms 22:14
• Lamentations 3:4
• Habakkuk 3:17
• 2 Corinthians 1:8-9
• 2 Timothy 4:7

Recommended Reading

Commentary Job Commentaries → Get This Bible EAB Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'skin of my teeth' mean in this verse?

The phrase 'skin of my teeth' is an idiom that means to barely survive or escape a situation by a very narrow margin. It suggests Job survived his trials by the barest of means.

How can this verse help someone going through a tough time?

This verse can help someone by reminding them that even in the bleakest of times, there is hope for survival and recovery. It shows that Job did not give up, even when he was at his lowest.

Why is this verse important in the Book of Job?

This verse is important because it vividly describes Job's physical and emotional state, emphasizing the severity of his trials and his unwavering faith in God despite his suffering.

How does this verse connect with other parts of the Bible?

This verse connects with other parts of the Bible where believers describe their trials and perseverance. It resonates with themes of faith and endurance found in Psalms, Lamentations, and the letters of Paul.