Job 6:27

You would even cast lots for an orphan and barter away your friend.

Study Bible

You would even cast lots
The phrase "cast lots" refers to an ancient practice used to make decisions or determine fate, often seen in the Old Testament. The Hebrew root for "lots" is "goral," which signifies a small stone or object used in this decision-making process. In the context of Job, this phrase underscores the callousness and moral insensitivity of Job's friends. Casting lots was sometimes used to discern God's will, but here it is depicted as a heartless act, suggesting that Job's friends are willing to gamble with the lives and well-being of the vulnerable, such as the fatherless. This highlights the depth of Job's despair and his perception of betrayal by those who should have been his comforters.

for the fatherless
The "fatherless" in ancient Israelite society were among the most vulnerable, often lacking protection and provision. The Hebrew word "yathom" is used here, emphasizing the plight of orphans who were dependent on the community for care. Job's accusation that his friends would "cast lots for the fatherless" is a severe indictment of their character, suggesting they are so devoid of compassion that they would exploit even the most defenseless. This reflects a broader biblical theme of God's concern for orphans and the expectation that His people will act justly and mercifully towards them.

and barter away your friend
The act of "bartering away" a friend implies a betrayal of trust and loyalty. The Hebrew root "karah" conveys the idea of trading or selling, which in this context, suggests a transactional view of relationships. Job feels that his friends have commodified their relationship with him, valuing personal gain over genuine friendship. This accusation is particularly poignant given the cultural emphasis on loyalty and covenantal relationships in the ancient Near East. Job's lament here is not just about personal betrayal but also about the breakdown of societal and moral values, where even sacred bonds are subject to exploitation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, experiencing immense suffering and questioning the justice of God.

2. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar are the three friends who come to comfort Job but end up accusing him of wrongdoing, suggesting his suffering is due to sin.

3. The Fatherless
Represents vulnerable individuals in society, often mentioned in the Bible as needing protection and justice.

4. Casting Lots
An ancient practice used to make decisions or divide property, often seen as leaving the decision to divine will.

5. Bartering
The act of trading goods or services, used here metaphorically to describe betrayal or exploitation of a friend.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Relationships
Job 6:27 challenges us to examine our integrity in relationships. Are we treating our friends and the vulnerable with the respect and care they deserve?

Justice for the Vulnerable
The verse highlights the importance of advocating for those who cannot defend themselves, such as the fatherless. Christians are called to be voices for justice.

The Danger of Misjudgment
Job's friends misjudged his situation, leading to hurtful accusations. We must be cautious not to assume or judge others' circumstances without understanding.

Faithfulness in Friendship
True friendship is marked by loyalty and support, not betrayal or exploitation. Reflect on how you can be a faithful friend in times of others' distress.

Trust in God's Justice
Despite human failures in justice, believers can trust in God's ultimate justice and righteousness, knowing He sees and cares for the oppressed.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 6:27 challenge us to reflect on our treatment of friends and the vulnerable in our community?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are advocates for justice, particularly for the fatherless, as highlighted in this verse?

3. How can we avoid the pitfalls of misjudging others' situations, as Job's friends did?

4. What practical steps can we take to be more faithful and supportive friends, especially in times of others' suffering?

5. How does trusting in God's justice help us navigate situations where human justice fails? Consider connections to other scriptures that speak of God's justice.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 82:3-4
This passage calls for justice for the weak and fatherless, highlighting God's concern for the vulnerable, contrasting with the actions described in Job 6:27.

Proverbs 17:17
Speaks of a friend who loves at all times, contrasting with the betrayal mentioned in Job 6:27.

James 1:27
Defines pure religion as caring for orphans and widows, aligning with the biblical mandate to protect the fatherless.