Job 12:20

He deprives the trusted of speech and takes away the discernment of elders.

Study Bible

He deprives the trusted of speech
This phrase highlights God's sovereign power over human faculties. The Hebrew root for "deprives" is "ʿāṭar," which conveys the idea of stripping away or removing. In the context of Job, this suggests that God can remove the ability to communicate effectively, even from those who are considered reliable or wise. Historically, speech has been a symbol of authority and influence, especially in ancient cultures where oral tradition was paramount. This phrase serves as a reminder that human wisdom and eloquence are ultimately subject to God's will.

and takes away the discernment of elders
The term "discernment" comes from the Hebrew word "ṭāʿam," which means taste or judgment. Elders in biblical times were revered for their experience and wisdom, often serving as judges or counselors within the community. The phrase underscores the idea that God can diminish the understanding and insight of even the most seasoned individuals. This serves as a humbling reminder that true wisdom and discernment are gifts from God, not inherent human qualities. In a broader scriptural context, this aligns with the theme that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding, as seen throughout the book of Job and other wisdom literature in the Bible.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, Job is the central figure in the Book of Job. He is known for his suffering and his dialogues with friends about the nature of God and human suffering.

2. Elders
In the context of ancient Israel, elders were respected leaders and decision-makers within the community, often sought for their wisdom and guidance.

3. God
The sovereign Creator who, according to Job, has the power to give and take away wisdom and understanding from people, including those in positions of trust and authority.

4. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who engage in dialogues with Job, often offering traditional wisdom that Job challenges.

5. The Setting of Job
The dialogues take place in the land of Uz, a region of ancient times, where Job and his friends discuss profound theological and philosophical questions.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Wisdom
God is the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding. Human wisdom is limited and can be taken away by God, reminding us to rely on Him for true insight.

Humility in Leadership
Those in positions of authority and trust should exercise humility, recognizing that their ability to lead and discern is a gift from God, not an inherent trait.

The Limitations of Human Understanding
We must acknowledge the limitations of our own understanding and be open to God's guidance, especially when faced with complex situations.

The Role of Suffering in Gaining Wisdom
Suffering can be a tool through which God teaches and refines us, often challenging our preconceived notions and deepening our reliance on Him.

The Importance of Seeking Godly Counsel
While human counsel is valuable, it should always be weighed against God's Word and sought with prayer for divine discernment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 12:20 challenge our understanding of wisdom and authority in today's world?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our reliance on human wisdom does not overshadow our dependence on God?

3. How can leaders today apply the principle of humility in their decision-making processes?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a loss of understanding or direction. How did this impact your faith and reliance on God?

5. How can we discern when human counsel aligns with God's wisdom, and what steps can we take to seek God's guidance in our decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 21:30
This verse emphasizes that no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can prevail against the Lord, highlighting God's ultimate authority over human wisdom.

Isaiah 29:14
This passage speaks of God confounding the wisdom of the wise, similar to Job's assertion that God can take away discernment from the elders.

1 Corinthians 1:19
Paul echoes the theme of God nullifying human wisdom, reinforcing the idea that divine wisdom surpasses human understanding.