Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who is he that will strike hands with me?
Please, God, put up a guarantee for me yourself; who else is there that will stand up for me and shake hands in agreement?
Job is desperately asking God to be his defender and guarantee his case, since no one else will stand with him.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Job, which is set in ancient times during a period of patriarchal society, Job is in the midst of intense suffering and deep dialogues with his friends who question his faith. He is desperately pleading with God to vouch for his integrity, like asking for a guarantee or pledge, amid his anguish over undeserved trials. This reflects the cultural practice in the ancient Near East of "striking hands" as a way to seal agreements or covenants, symbolizing a binding commitment.
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