A New Interpretation of Job 19:26

Abstract

This article offers a new interpretation Job 19:26, a passage which is arguably one of the most difficult and obscure in the book. The article surveys earlier interpretations, including the various versions of the text as well as medieval and modern commentators, and points to the limits of the readings that have been offered so far. Taking into account the immediate context of v. 26, the article proposes a new solution based on a minimal emendation of the MT. In the resulting reading, Job expresses his conviction that God will eventually vindicate him, and heal his skin and flesh. In keeping with recent studies of Job, this reading can be related to the broader issue of disability in the book.