Definition: They have gaped upon me with their mouth; they have smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully; they have gathered themselves together against me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Job 16:10. It’s a really powerful and somewhat dramatic passage about suffering and judgment. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: The speaker is being unfairly treated and attacked. They’ve been deliberately trying to hurt him, and they’re doing it with hostility. Let’s unpack the details: “They have gaped upon me…” : This suggests a feeling of being intensely scrutinized or examined. It's like someone is looking down on him, maybe even judging him harshly. “…with their mouth…” : This implies they were speaking or making accusations against him. “…they have smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully…” : This is a really important part. “Smitten” means to hit or rebuke with something painful. The speaker feels deeply hurt and criticized by these people. It’s like someone is pointing out his flaws and shortcomings. “…they have gathered themselves together against me.” : This shows they are actively fighting him, standing up for themselves and their cause. They’re forming a group to oppose him. What does this tell us about the situation? It's a Trial: This verse often speaks of a trial or judgment from God. Job is experiencing something that feels like an attack from outside himself. It’s About Justice: The speaker feels wronged and believes they are being treated unfairly. It’s Not His Fault (Probably): The wording suggests the people are acting out of their own anger, pride, or foolishness, rather than his actions directly causing the harm. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a story about God's judgment on humanity. It’s not necessarily a condemnation of the speaker; it's about God's perspective on the situation and the consequences of wrongdoing. In short, this verse describes a painful experience where someone is being deliberately attacked and criticized by others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Job 16? Give you some potential interpretations of this verse? Or would you like me to provide a slightly more detailed explanation of any of these points?