Job 35:9

Afrikaans 1933/1953

Vanweë die menigte van verdrukkinge skreeu hulle; hulle roep om hulp oor die geweld van die grotes.

What Does This Mean?

In Job 35:9, Elihu is speaking and he points out that when people are oppressed and mistreated, they cry out for help because of the powerful people who hurt them. The key message is that the suffering of the oppressed is often loud and public due to the actions of the powerful.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a bully at school who is really strong and keeps pushing you around. You might cry out for help because of how much that bully hurts you. In this verse, Elihu is saying that when big, strong people hurt others, those who are hurt cry out for help.

Historical Background

Job 35:9 is part of the book of Job, which is a poetic narrative believed to have been written by various authors, possibly around 600 BCE. The book speaks to an audience dealing with suffering and questioning the reasons behind it, likely in an ancient Near Eastern context where oppression was common.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, think of someone who is being bullied at work by a powerful boss. The employee might cry out for help, feeling oppressed and overwhelmed. This verse reminds us to pay attention to the cries of the oppressed and to seek justice and support for them.

Topics

• oppression
• justice
• suffering
• cry for help
• power
• helplessness

Related Verses

• Exodus 22:21-23
• Psalm 10:12
• Proverbs 21:13
• Isaiah 10:1-2
• James 5:4

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Job 35:9?

Elihu is speaking in this verse. He is one of Job's friends who comes to argue with Job about his suffering.

What does the 'arm of the mighty' refer to in Job 35:9?

The 'arm of the mighty' refers to the power or force of those who are in positions of authority or strength, who use this power to oppress others.

How does Job 35:9 connect to themes of justice?

Job 35:9 highlights the cries of the oppressed, which is a call for justice and a recognition that the powerful should be held accountable for their actions.

What can we do today to respond to the cries of the oppressed as mentioned in Job 35:9?

We can respond by listening to and supporting those who are being oppressed, advocating for justice, and speaking out against injustice and abuse of power.