“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted;
3
you asked,‘Who is this who darkens counsel without knowledge?’ But I have declared without understanding things too wonderful for me to know.
4
You said,‘Pay attention, and I will speak; I will question you, and you will answer me.’
Job 42:1 — Frequently Asked Questions
7 questions
What does Job 42:1 say?
Job 42:1 in the NET Bible reads: “Job’s Confession Then Job answered the LORD:”
Where is Job 42:1 in the Bible?
Job 42:1 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Job, chapter 42, verse 1.
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 42:1.
What translation should I read Job 42:1 in?
Job 42:1 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 42:1?
Job 42:1 reads (NET): “Job’s Confession Then Job answered the LORD:” 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.