Job 16:21 net — and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend.

NET Bible

"and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend."

— Job 16:21, NET Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Job 16:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Job 16 — Context

18

An Appeal to God as Witness“O earth, do not cover my blood, nor let there be a secret place for my cry.

19

Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high.

20

My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God;

21

and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend.

22

For the years that lie ahead are few, and then I will go on the way of no return.

Job 16:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Job 16:21 say?
Job 16:21 in the NET Bible reads: “and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend.”
Where is Job 16:21 in the Bible?
Job 16:21 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Job, chapter 16, verse 21.
Who wrote Job?
Job is traditionally attributed to Anonymous; among the oldest books of the Bible. It was written Unknown; possibly c. 2000–1800 BC, with composition c. 1400–500 BC.
What is the book of Job about?
Job is the ancient story of a righteous man stripped of everything he has, and the four friends who try and fail to explain his suffering. When God finally speaks, he does not answer the "why" — he reveals himself, and Job worships from a place deeper than his pain.
What are the major themes of Job?
Job explores themes including Suffering, Sovereignty, Faith Under Trial, Wisdom, God's Majesty. These themes shape the meaning and context of Job 16:21.
What translation should I read Job 16:21 in?
Job 16:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Job 16:21?
Job 16:21 reads (NET): “and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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