Job 21:7

Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?

Study Bible

Why do the wicked live on
The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "רְשָׁעִים" (resha'im), which refers to those who are morally wrong or guilty. In the context of Job, this term is used to describe those who defy God's laws and yet seem to prosper. The question posed by Job reflects a deep theological struggle, as it challenges the traditional belief that righteousness leads to blessing and wickedness to punishment. This phrase invites readers to ponder the mystery of divine justice and the apparent prosperity of those who live in opposition to God's will. Historically, this has been a point of contention and reflection for believers, as it seems to contradict the retributive justice expected in the ancient Near Eastern context.

growing old
The phrase "growing old" in Hebrew is "יַעֲתִיקוּ" (ya'atiqu), which implies not just aging but also enduring or continuing over time. This suggests a sense of stability and longevity that the wicked enjoy, which is perplexing to Job. In the ancient world, long life was often seen as a sign of divine favor, yet here it is attributed to those who are unrighteous. This challenges the reader to consider the complexities of life and the sovereignty of God, who allows the wicked to persist for reasons that may be beyond human understanding.

and increasing in power
The Hebrew word for "increasing" is "יִגְבָּרוּ" (yigbaru), which means to become strong or mighty. The term "power" is "חָיִל" (chayil), often associated with strength, wealth, or military might. This phrase highlights the paradox of the wicked not only living long lives but also amassing influence and control. In the historical context of Job, power was typically seen as a blessing from God, yet here it is possessed by those who defy Him. This serves as a reminder of the temporary and deceptive nature of earthly power and wealth, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man described as blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil. He is enduring immense suffering and questioning the justice of God.

2. The Wicked
A general term used to describe those who live in opposition to God's ways, often prospering in worldly terms despite their unrighteousness.

3. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

4. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel but often misinterpret his suffering as a result of sin.

5. God
The ultimate authority and sovereign being, whose justice and ways are being questioned by Job in this passage.

Teaching Points

The Mystery of Divine Justice
God's ways are often beyond human understanding. While the prosperity of the wicked seems unjust, believers are called to trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty.

The Temporal vs. the Eternal
The prosperity of the wicked is temporary. Christians are encouraged to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary earthly success.

Faith in Suffering
Job's questioning reflects a deep faith that seeks understanding. Believers are encouraged to bring their doubts and questions to God, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

The Role of Community in Suffering
Job's friends provide a cautionary example of how not to counsel those in distress. Christians are called to offer compassionate support rather than judgment.

The Importance of Perseverance
Despite his suffering and questions, Job remains steadfast in his faith. Believers are encouraged to persevere in faith, even when answers are not immediately apparent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's questioning of the prosperity of the wicked challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice?

2. In what ways can the prosperity of the wicked be a stumbling block to your faith, and how can you overcome this challenge?

3. How do other scriptures, such as Psalm 73 or Ecclesiastes 8:14, provide insight into the issue of the wicked prospering?

4. What role should the Christian community play in supporting those who are questioning or suffering like Job?

5. How can you apply the lessons from Job's perseverance and faith in your own life, especially during times of personal trial or doubt?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm echoes Job's lament, as the psalmist Asaph also struggles with the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, ultimately finding solace in God's eternal justice.

Ecclesiastes 8:14
This verse discusses the apparent injustice in the world where the righteous suffer while the wicked prosper, similar to Job's observations.

Jeremiah 12:1
Jeremiah questions why the wicked prosper, paralleling Job's inquiry and highlighting a common biblical theme of questioning divine justice.