Job 6:19

The caravans of Tema look for water; the travelers of Sheba hope to find it.

Study Bible

The caravans of Tema
The mention of "Tema" refers to a region and a people known for their trade routes in the Arabian desert. Historically, Tema was an oasis town, providing a critical stop for caravans traveling through the arid landscape. In the context of Job, the caravans symbolize those who are on a journey, seeking sustenance and survival. Theologically, this can be seen as a metaphor for the human soul's search for spiritual nourishment and truth. The Hebrew root for "Tema" suggests a place of desert or wasteland, emphasizing the barrenness and the dire need for sustenance, much like Job's own spiritual and emotional desolation.

look for water
Water, in the biblical context, often symbolizes life, refreshment, and divine provision. The act of "looking for water" signifies a deep yearning and necessity for life-sustaining resources. In Job's lament, this phrase underscores the desperation and hope for relief amidst suffering. The Hebrew word for "look" implies an active search, a longing gaze, which can be paralleled with the believer's search for God's presence and comfort in times of trial. This imagery resonates with the spiritual thirst that only God can quench, as seen throughout Scripture.

the travelers of Sheba
"Sheba" is historically associated with wealth, trade, and the famed Queen of Sheba who visited King Solomon. The travelers from Sheba represent those who embark on long, arduous journeys, often in pursuit of prosperity and wisdom. In Job's context, these travelers symbolize the quest for understanding and meaning in the midst of suffering. The Hebrew root for "Sheba" is linked to the idea of an oath or promise, suggesting a deeper spiritual journey towards fulfilling divine promises or seeking God's covenantal faithfulness.

hope to find it
The word "hope" here is pivotal, reflecting a deep-seated expectation and desire for fulfillment. In the Hebrew context, hope is not a passive wish but an active, confident expectation rooted in faith. The travelers' hope to find water mirrors Job's own hope for vindication and relief from his afflictions. This phrase invites readers to consider the nature of hope in their own lives, especially in the face of adversity. It challenges believers to maintain their hope in God's provision and timing, trusting that He will meet their needs according to His perfect will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and patience who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

2. Tema
A region or tribe in Arabia, known for its caravans and trade routes. It is often associated with the desert and scarcity of resources.

3. Sheba
A kingdom in the southern Arabian Peninsula, known for its wealth and trade. The travelers from Sheba are depicted as seeking sustenance in their journeys.

4. Caravans
Groups of travelers, often merchants, who journey together for safety and trade, especially across deserts.

5. Water
A vital resource in the desert, symbolizing life, hope, and sustenance. The search for water represents the quest for survival and fulfillment.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Just as the caravans of Tema and travelers of Sheba depend on finding water, we must depend on God for our spiritual sustenance and guidance.

Spiritual Thirst
Our souls, like the travelers in the desert, often experience a thirst that only God can quench. We should seek Him earnestly in our times of need.

Hope in Uncertainty
The travelers' hope to find water reflects our hope in God's provision, even when circumstances seem dire or uncertain.

Community and Support
The concept of caravans highlights the importance of community and mutual support in our spiritual journeys.

Perseverance in Trials
The search for water in a desert symbolizes perseverance through trials, trusting that God will provide in His timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of caravans searching for water in Job 6:19 relate to our spiritual journey and dependence on God?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper thirst for righteousness in our daily lives, as suggested by Matthew 5:6?

3. How can the concept of community, as seen in the caravans, be applied to our church or small group settings to support one another spiritually?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually dry or in need. How did you seek God's provision, and what was the outcome?

5. How can the hope and perseverance of the travelers in Job 6:19 inspire us to trust in God's timing and provision during our own trials?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 21:13-14
This passage speaks of the burden against Arabia and mentions Tema, highlighting the region's significance and the challenges faced by travelers.

Psalm 63:1
David's longing for God in a dry and weary land parallels the search for water, symbolizing spiritual thirst and dependence on God.

Jeremiah 14:3
Describes the desperation of those seeking water during a drought, illustrating the human need for divine provision.

Matthew 5:6
Jesus speaks of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, promising they will be filled, drawing a parallel to the spiritual fulfillment found in God.