KJV ORIGINAL
Because he hath loosed my cord, and afflicted me, they have also let loose the bridle before me.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Because God has loosened my bowstring and brought suffering upon me, others have thrown off all restraint in how they treat me.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Job is saying that because God has weakened him and allowed his suffering, people now feel free to mistreat him without any limits or respect.
📚 Historical Context
Job is speaking during his intense period of suffering, having lost his wealth, children, and health. In ancient times, a loosened bowstring rendered a warrior powerless, and people would show respect to those who were strong and favored by God. Job feels that his obvious suffering has signaled to others that God's protection has been removed from him.
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