Also now, behold, my witness [is] in heaven, and my record [is] on high.
Also now, behold, my witness {H5707} is in heaven {H8064}, and my record {H7717} is on high {H4791}.
Even now, my witness is in heaven; my advocate is there on high.
Even now my witness is in heaven, and my advocate is on high.
Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven, And he that voucheth for me is on high.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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Romans 1:9
For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; -
2 Corinthians 11:31
The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. -
1 Thessalonians 2:10
Ye [are] witnesses, and God [also], how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: -
Genesis 31:50
If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take [other] wives beside my daughters, no man [is] with us; see, God [is] witness betwixt me and thee. -
1 Thessalonians 2:5
For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God [is] witness: -
2 Corinthians 1:23
Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. -
Psalms 113:5
Who [is] like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,
In Job 16:19, amidst his profound suffering and the relentless accusations of his friends, Job articulates a desperate yet profound declaration of faith. He has been stripped of everything—his wealth, his health, his family—and is now being condemned as a sinner by those who should offer comfort. Feeling utterly alone and without an earthly advocate, Job appeals to a higher authority.
Context
This verse is a poignant cry from Job's heart, expressing his conviction that despite the harsh judgments of his friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar), there is a divine entity, a "witness" in heaven, who knows his true integrity and righteousness. Job's friends insist that his suffering must be a direct consequence of hidden sin, a common theological viewpoint of their time. However, Job vehemently denies this, maintaining his innocence and appealing beyond human understanding and judgment to the ultimate arbiter.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "witness" is ‘ēd (עֵד), a legal term referring to someone who testifies to facts. It emphasizes the certainty and reliability of the testimony. The word translated "record" is śāhad (שָׂהַד), which also relates to bearing witness or testifying, often implying a formal or certified statement. Together, these terms highlight Job's belief in a precise, undeniable heavenly testimony that validates his innocence.
Related Scriptures
Job's yearning for a heavenly witness or advocate foreshadows the New Testament concept of Christ as our intercessor and advocate. Just as Job longed for someone to testify on his behalf, believers today have Jesus Christ, the righteous, who is our advocate with the Father. This divine oversight assures us that God knows our hearts and circumstances (Psalm 139:2) and that nothing is hidden from His sight (Hebrews 4:13).
Practical Application
Job's declaration offers profound comfort and encouragement. In moments when we feel misunderstood, falsely accused, or unjustly treated by others, this verse reminds us that there is a higher court. God sees and knows the truth of our hearts and circumstances, even when human judgment fails. We can find solace in appealing to Him, trusting that He is our ultimate witness and defender. It encourages us to maintain our integrity, knowing that our true record is kept "on high" and that God will ultimately bring justice and vindication.