Because I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and [him that had] none to help him.
Because I delivered {H4422} the poor {H6041} that cried {H7768}, and the fatherless {H3490}, and him that had none to help {H5826} him.
for I delivered the poor when they cried for assistance, the orphan too, who had no one to help him.
because I rescued the poor who cried out and the fatherless who had no helper.
Because I delivered the poor that cried, The fatherless also, that had none to help him.
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Psalms 72:12
For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and [him] that hath no helper. -
Proverbs 21:13
¶ Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. -
James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world. -
Deuteronomy 10:18
He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. -
Psalms 82:2
How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. -
Psalms 82:4
Deliver the poor and needy: rid [them] out of the hand of the wicked. -
Psalms 68:5
A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, [is] God in his holy habitation.
Job 29:12 is part of Job’s lament, where he recalls his former prosperity and respected status before his intense suffering. In this chapter, Job paints a vivid picture of his past life, emphasizing his righteous conduct and the high regard in which he was held by the community. This particular verse highlights his active role as a compassionate and just leader.
Context
In Job chapter 29, Job is reflecting on "the days of my youth" (v. 4) and "when the Almighty was yet with me" (v. 5). He describes a time when he was blessed, respected, and influential. He recounts how people listened to his counsel, and how his presence brought comfort and wisdom. Verse 12 initiates a series of examples of his virtuous deeds, illustrating *why* he was so esteemed. He wasn't just a wealthy man; he was a righteous man who used his position for the good of others, particularly the most vulnerable.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "delivered" (יָצִיל - yatsil) comes from a root meaning "to pull out, rescue, deliver." It implies an active, often forceful, intervention to free someone from distress or danger. It's not just a passive act of giving but an energetic act of saving or defending. The terms "poor" (דַּל - dal) and "fatherless" (יָתוֹם - yatom) are recurring biblical categories for society's most vulnerable, whose welfare is a particular concern of God.
Reflection and Application
Job's example in this verse serves as a timeless model for how individuals, especially those in positions of influence, should conduct themselves. His actions echo the divine command found in the Law, where God frequently emphasizes concern for the marginalized, such as in Deuteronomy 10:18. This proactive compassion aligns with the New Testament teaching on true worship, as described in James 1:27 regarding pure and undefiled religion.
For us today, Job 29:12 challenges us to move beyond mere sympathy to active empathy and intervention. It calls believers to:
Ultimately, Job's past life, exemplified by this verse, demonstrates a life lived in accordance with God's heart for justice and mercy, offering a powerful counterpoint to the accusations of his friends and a model for righteous living.