KJV ORIGINAL
Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who is he that will strike hands with me?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Please, God, put up a guarantee for me yourself; who else is there that will stand up for me and shake hands in agreement?
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Job is desperately asking God to be his defender and guarantee his case, since no one else will stand with him.
📚 Historical Context
Job is speaking during his intense suffering, having lost his wealth, children, and health. In ancient times, when someone needed legal representation or wanted to make a binding agreement, they would find a surety (someone to guarantee their debt or promise) and seal the deal by striking hands (shaking hands). Job feels completely abandoned by friends and community.
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