Definition: That he may withdraw man [from his] purpose, and hide pride from man.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Job 33:17: “That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man.” Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “Withdraw man from his purpose” : This refers to letting someone step back from something they’re doing – whether it’s a job, a hobby, a decision, or even just a way of thinking. It’s about removing them from the active engagement with that activity. “Hide pride from man” : This is about protecting someone from their own arrogance, self-importance, and feeling like they're better than everyone else. Let’s unpack it a bit further: The Bible often uses this imagery to talk about human nature . It suggests that humans are prone to: Excessive ambition: Wanting things too much – wanting more, being better, having more power. Self-importance: Feeling like they're special and unique and deserving of praise. Pride: A feeling of superiority over others, which can lead to bad decisions and unhappiness. The verse is saying that God wants to protect us from these tendencies. It’s a gentle reminder that we need to be humble and aware of our own limitations. Why is this important? Because it suggests that true fulfillment comes not from chasing after things, but from recognizing our place in the grand scheme of things – and understanding that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves. It’s a call for perspective and humility. In short, it's about encouraging us to be grounded, thoughtful, and aware of our own limitations. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like wisdom or humility)?