◄ Job 1 ►
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Job’s Character and Wealth (James 5:7–12) 1There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job. And this man was blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil. 2He had seven sons and three daughters, 3and he owned 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, 500 female donkeys, and a very large number of servants. Job was the greatest man of all the people of the East. 4Job’s sons would take turns holding feasts in their homes, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5And when the days of feasting were over, Job would send for his children to purify them, rising early in the morning to offer burnt offerings for all of them. For Job thought, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job’s regular practice. Satan’s First Attack 6One day the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satana also came with them. 7“Where have you come from?” said the LORD to Satan. “From roaming through the earth,” he replied, “and walking back and forth in it.” 8Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one on earth like him, a man who is blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil.” 9Satan answered the LORD, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 10Have You not placed a hedge on every side around him and his household and all that he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11But stretch out Your hand and strike all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face.” 12“Very well,” said the LORD to Satan. “Everything he has is in your hands, but you must not lay a hand on the man himself.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. Job Loses His Children and Possessions 13One day, while Job’s sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 14a messenger came and reported to Job: “While the oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, 15the Sabeans swooped down and took them away. They put the servants to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you!” 16While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “The fire of God fell from heaven. It burned and consumed the sheep and the servants, and I alone have escaped to tell you!” 17While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels, and took them away. They put the servants to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you!” 18While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 19when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on the young people and they are dead, and I alone have escaped to tell you!” 20Then Job stood up, tore his robe, and shaved his head. He fell to the ground and worshiped, 21saying: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.” 22In all this, Job did not sin or charge God with wrongdoing. Footnotes: 6 a That is, the Accuser or the Adversary; here and throughout Job 1 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Job 1 Summary Job's Character and Wealth Verses 1–5 – Job’s Piety and Prosperity A blameless, upright man named Job lives in the land of Uz. He reveres God, shuns evil, and is the greatest man of the East, owning thousands of livestock and employing many servants. His ten children feast regularly, and Job rises early to offer burnt offerings for each of them, saying, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts” (Job 1:5). Verses 6–12 – A Heavenly Meeting and Satan’s Challenge The “sons of God” gather before the LORD, and Satan (“the accuser”) comes with them. God points out Job’s integrity. Satan argues that Job serves God only because of divine protection and prosperity: “Stretch out Your hand and strike all he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face” (Job 1:11). God permits Satan to take Job’s possessions but spares Job himself. Verses 13–19 – Sudden Disasters Strike In one terrible day, Job loses everything. Sabeans steal his oxen and donkeys, fire from heaven consumes his sheep, Chaldeans raid his camels, and a great wind collapses the house where his children are feasting. Only messengers escape to tell him. Verses 20–22 – Job Worships in Grief Job tears his robe, shaves his head, and falls to the ground in worship: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD has given and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD” (Job 1:21). Despite unimaginable loss, “Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing” (Job 1:22). In Job Chapter 1, we are introduced to Job, a man of unmatched righteousness and prosperity in the land of Uz. The narrative quickly takes a dramatic turn as we are transported to a heavenly council where Satan, the Accuser, is granted permission to test Job's faith. The account unfolds as Job's wealth, family, and peace are abruptly stripped away, yet his unwavering faith remains, presenting a profound exploration of innocent suffering, spiritual warfare, and divine mystery. Historical Setting and Location of Uz • Uz is likely in northern Arabia or southern Edom, near modern-day Jordan or northwestern Saudi Arabia. • Jeremiah 25:20 and Lamentations 4:21 mention Uz alongside Edom, hinting at a desert frontier region with caravan routes. • The livestock counts—7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels—fit a semi-nomadic patriarchal economy (compare Abraham in Genesis 12–24). Job as a Historical Figure • Ezekiel 14:14, 20 lists Job with Noah and Daniel as real men known for righteousness. • James 5:11 appeals to “the endurance of Job.” Early Hebrew tradition treats him as historical, and nothing in the book signals fable. The Heavenly Court Scene • Other biblical glimpses appear in 1 Kings 22:19 and Isaiah 6:1-8. Such scenes underline that earthly events are often the outworking of decisions made in God’s throne room. • God’s question—“Have you considered My servant Job?”—shows divine confidence in human faithfulness. The Role of Satan • The Hebrew ha-satan means “the accuser” or “adversary.” He tests loyalty, as seen in Zechariah 3:1-2. • Revelation 12:10 calls him “the accuser of our brothers.” Job 1 gives the earliest extended portrait of his work. Wealth Metrics and Household Structure • 500 yoke of oxen equals about 1,000 draft animals—vast plowing power for the era. • Servants (Hebrew: “young men”) form a sizable workforce; Job is a regional magnate akin to Genesis patriarchs. • Ten adult children sharing meals show close family ties and prosperity. Cultural Practices: Sacrifices for Children • Patriarchs served as family priests before the Levitical system (compare Genesis 8:20; 12:7). • Job’s daily burnt offerings reveal constant intercession. Psalm 103:13 echoes this parental compassion. Testing of Faith in Scripture • Abraham’s binding of Isaac (Genesis 22) and Peter’s sifting (Luke 22:31-32) parallel Job’s test: faith proven through loss or pressure. • 1 Peter 1:6-7 says trials refine faith “more precious than gold.” Themes of God’s Sovereignty and Human Suffering • Job never learns the heavenly conversation, mirroring our limited knowledge during hardship. • Romans 8:28 affirms God works “all things” for good; Job 1 shows the beginning of that process before any outcome is visible. Archaeological Insights into Early Patriarchal Life • Tablets from Mari (18th century BC) list camel caravans and great sheep flocks, matching Job’s holdings. • Al-Ula rock inscriptions in Arabia mention clans whose names resemble “Uz” and “Tema” (Job 6:19), situating the account in a real trade corridor. Links with Later Biblical Passages • Job’s response of worship during grief anticipates Habakkuk 3:17-18 and Paul’s call to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • The book prepares readers for Christ, the ultimate righteous sufferer (Isaiah 53; 1 Peter 2:21-24). Key Doctrinal Lessons 1. A blameless life does not insulate believers from trouble. 2. Satan is on a leash—he must seek permission (Job 1:12). 3. Worship is the right first reaction to crisis. 4. God’s worth is independent of His gifts; genuine faith treasures the Giver above the gifts. 5. Suffering can showcase faith for heavenly audiences (Ephesians 3:10). Practical Takeaways • Guard the heart: Job’s habit of early-morning sacrifice built spiritual resilience before calamity struck. • Measure wealth by character, not assets. Job loses livestock yet retains integrity. • In grief, honest lament and reverent worship can coexist; tearing robes and praising God are not contradictions. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 5:11 Behold, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in your faith... Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Teaching Points Job's Character and Wealth Job is described as blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil (Job 1:1). He was also incredibly wealthy, with a large family and numerous possessions, indicating God's blessing on his life. Satan's Challenge The scene shifts to a heavenly court where Satan challenges Job's integrity, suggesting that Job is faithful only because of his prosperity (Job 1:9-11). God's Sovereignty God permits Satan to test Job, but with limitations, demonstrating that God is ultimately in control (Job 1:12). Job's Trials In rapid succession, Job loses his livestock, servants, and children, yet he responds with worship, saying, The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD (Job 1:21). Job's Faithfulness Despite his immense suffering, Job does not sin or blame God, showcasing his unwavering faith (Job 1:22). Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when circumstances are dire, we can trust that God is in control and has a purpose for our trials. Maintain Integrity Like Job, strive to remain blameless and upright, regardless of external blessings or hardships. Respond with Worship In times of loss, choose to worship and bless God's name, acknowledging His authority over all things. Resist the Accuser Be aware of Satan's tactics to undermine our faith and stand firm in our trust in God. People 1. Job The central figure of the book, Job is described as a "blameless and upright" man who "feared God and shunned evil" (Job 1:1). His Hebrew name, אִיּוֹב (Iyyov), is often associated with the meaning "persecuted" or "hated," reflecting his trials and suffering. 2. God (Yahweh) The sovereign deity who allows Job to be tested. In the Hebrew text, God is referred to as יְהוָה (Yahweh), emphasizing His covenantal relationship with humanity. God's dialogues with Satan and Job highlight His omnipotence and wisdom (Job 1:6-12, 38:1-42:6). 3. Satan The adversary who challenges Job's integrity, suggesting that Job is faithful only because of his prosperity. The Hebrew term שָׂטָן (Satan) means "accuser" or "adversary" (Job 1:6-12). 4. Eliphaz the Temanite One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Eliphaz is often seen as the most moderate of the three, emphasizing the idea that suffering is a result of sin (Job 2:11, 4:1-5:27). 5. Bildad the Shuhite Another friend of Job, Bildad argues that Job's children must have sinned to deserve their fate and that Job should repent to restore his fortunes (Job 2:11, 8:1-22). 6. Zophar the Naamathite The third friend, Zophar, is the most dogmatic, insisting that Job's suffering is due to his hidden sins and that he deserves even worse (Job 2:11, 11:1-20). 7. Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite A younger man who speaks after Job's three friends. Elihu claims to speak on God's behalf, emphasizing God's justice and the educational purpose of suffering (Job 32:1-37:24). 8. Job's Wife Although unnamed, she plays a brief but significant role by challenging Job to "curse God and die" (Job 2:9), reflecting a moment of despair and testing Job's faith. Places 1. Uz Description Uz is the land where Job resides. It is described as a place in the East, indicating a region outside of Israel. The exact location is not specified, but it is traditionally thought to be in the area of Edom or northern Arabia. The Hebrew root for Uz (עוּץ) suggests a place of counsel or consultation, which may reflect the wisdom literature context of the book. Reference Job 1:1 - "There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job." 2. Sabeans Description The Sabeans are a group of people who attack and plunder Job's livestock. They are often associated with a nomadic or semi-nomadic tribe, possibly from the region of Sheba, which is thought to be in the southern Arabian Peninsula. The Hebrew term (שְׁבָאִים) indicates a people known for their wealth and trade. Reference Job 1:15 - "and the Sabeans swooped down and took them away." 3. Chaldeans Description The Chaldeans are another group that attacks Job's property, specifically his camels. Historically, the Chaldeans were a Semitic people who lived in the southern part of Babylon (modern-day Iraq). The Hebrew term (כַּשְׂדִּים) refers to a people known for their astrological and scholarly pursuits. Reference Job 1:17 - "The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels, and took them away." Events 1. Introduction to Job's Character and Wealth Job is introduced as a man of great integrity and wealth. He is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). The Hebrew word for "blameless" is "תָּם" (tam), indicating completeness or moral integrity. 2. Job's Family and Possessions Job is blessed with a large family and substantial wealth, including seven sons, three daughters, and extensive livestock (Job 1:2-3). His wealth and family size signify God's favor in the cultural context of the time. 3. Job's Regular Sacrifices Job regularly offers burnt offerings for his children, fearing they might have sinned and cursed God in their hearts (Job 1:5). This demonstrates his piety and concern for spiritual purity. 4. Heavenly Council and Satan's Challenge A heavenly council convenes, and Satan appears among the sons of God. God praises Job's righteousness, but Satan challenges Job's integrity, suggesting it is due to God's protection and blessings (Job 1:6-11). The Hebrew term "שָׂטָן" (satan) means "adversary" or "accuser." 5. God Permits Satan to Test Job God allows Satan to test Job by removing his possessions and children, but forbids Satan from harming Job physically (Job 1:12). This sets the stage for the trials that follow. 6. Loss of Job's Livestock and Servants A series of calamities befall Job: Sabeans steal his oxen and donkeys, and kill the servants; fire from heaven consumes the sheep and more servants; Chaldeans raid the camels and kill additional servants (Job 1:13-17). 7. Death of Job's Children A great wind collapses the house where Job's children are feasting, killing them all (Job 1:18-19). This represents the ultimate personal loss for Job. 8. Job's Response to His Losses In response to these tragedies, Job mourns by tearing his robe and shaving his head, then worships God, saying, "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:20-21). The Hebrew word "בָּרַךְ" (barak) used here for "blessed" can also mean to kneel or praise. 9. Job's Integrity Maintained Despite his immense suffering, Job does not sin or blame God for wrongdoing (Job 1:22). This highlights his steadfast faith and righteousness. Lessons from Job 1 1. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare In the opening chapter of Job, we are given a rare glimpse into the heavenly realms where God and Satan discuss Job's faithfulness. This reminds us that our struggles are not merely physical but spiritual. Ephesians 6:12 tells us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Recognizing this can help us stay vigilant and prayerful, knowing that our faith is constantly being tested. 2. God’s Sovereignty Over All Things Job's story begins with a clear demonstration of God's sovereignty. Despite Satan's attempts to challenge Job's faith, it is God who sets the boundaries. "The LORD said to Satan, 'Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger'" (Job 1:12). This reassures us that nothing happens without God's permission, and He is in control of every situation. 3. The Importance of Integrity Job is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). His integrity is a cornerstone of his character, and it serves as a powerful reminder for us to live lives that honor God. Integrity is not just about our actions but also our heart's posture towards God and others. 4. The Value of Family and Relationships Job's initial blessings include a large family, and he regularly offers sacrifices on their behalf, showing his deep concern for their spiritual well-being. "He would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings for each of them" (Job 1:5). This highlights the importance of nurturing and praying for our families, ensuring that our relationships are rooted in love and faith. 5. The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Possessions In a single day, Job loses his wealth, servants, and children. This starkly illustrates the transient nature of material possessions. As Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:19-20, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." Our true wealth lies in our relationship with God. 6. The Power of Worship in Adversity Despite his immense loss, Job's immediate response is to worship. "Then Job arose, tore his robe, shaved his head, and fell to the ground and worshiped" (Job 1:20). Worshiping in times of trial can shift our focus from our problems to God's greatness, providing us with strength and peace. 7. The Acceptance of God’s Will Job's acceptance of both good and bad from God is a profound lesson in submission to His will. "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). Trusting in God's plan, even when we don't understand it, is a testament to our faith. 8. The Testimony of a Faithful Life Job's life serves as a testimony to those around him, including his friends and family. His unwavering faith in the face of adversity speaks volumes about his relationship with God. As believers, our lives should reflect our faith, serving as a witness to others. 9. The Role of Patience in Suffering Job's patience is legendary, and James 5:11 commends him for it: "You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy." Patience in suffering is not passive but an active trust in God's timing and purposes. 10. The Assurance of God’s Presence Throughout his trials, Job never loses sight of God's presence. Even when he questions and struggles, he knows that God is with him. This assurance is echoed in Hebrews 13:5, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." No matter what we face, we can be confident that God is always by our side. Topics 1. Introduction to Job's Character (Job 1:1-5) Job is introduced as a man of integrity, described as "blameless and upright," who "feared God and shunned evil" (Job 1:1). The Hebrew word for "blameless" is "תָּם" (tam), indicating completeness or moral integrity. Job's wealth and family are detailed, emphasizing his status and piety. 2. Heavenly Council and Satan's Challenge (Job 1:6-12) A scene in the heavenly realms is depicted where "the sons of God" present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also comes among them (Job 1:6). The Hebrew term "שָׂטָן" (satan) means "adversary" or "accuser." God praises Job's righteousness, but Satan challenges Job's integrity, suggesting it is due to God's protection and blessings. 3. Job's Trials Begin (Job 1:13-19) A series of calamities befall Job, including the loss of his oxen, donkeys, sheep, camels, servants, and children. These events occur in rapid succession, each reported by a surviving servant. The narrative highlights the sudden and total nature of Job's losses, testing his faith and integrity. 4. Job's Response to Suffering (Job 1:20-22) Despite his immense suffering, Job responds with worship and submission to God's will. He tears his robe, shaves his head, and falls to the ground in worship, saying, "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). The Hebrew word "בָּרַךְ" (barak) is used for "blessed," indicating praise or adoration. Job's response is one of profound faith and acceptance, maintaining his integrity despite his trials. Themes 1. Righteousness and Integrity Job is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). The Hebrew word for "blameless" is "תָּם" (tam), which implies completeness or moral integrity. This theme highlights the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. 2. Divine Sovereignty The narrative emphasizes God's control over all events. In Job 1:6-12, God permits Satan to test Job, demonstrating that nothing happens without God's permission. This underscores the belief in God's ultimate authority over creation. 3. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare The dialogue between God and Satan in Job 1:6-12 reveals the existence of spiritual conflict. Satan challenges Job's faithfulness, suggesting that human devotion is contingent on material blessings. This theme points to the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil. 4. Testing and Suffering Job's trials begin with the loss of his possessions and children (Job 1:13-19). The Hebrew word for "test" (נָסָה, nasah) implies a proving or refining process. This theme explores the purpose and nature of suffering in the life of a believer. 5. Faithfulness in Adversity Despite his immense loss, Job responds with worship, saying, "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). This theme highlights the call to remain faithful and trust in God's goodness, even in difficult circumstances. 6. The Limits of Satan's Power While Satan is allowed to test Job, his power is limited by God's command (Job 1:12). This theme reassures believers that evil is not omnipotent and operates within the boundaries set by God. 7. The Nature of True Worship Job's response to his suffering is one of worship and submission to God's will (Job 1:20-21). This theme emphasizes that true worship is not dependent on circumstances but is an expression of reverence and trust in God. Prayer Points Pray for Strength Ask God for the strength to remain faithful and upright in the face of trials. Pray for Trust Seek a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and His plans for your life. Pray for Worshipful Hearts Request a heart that chooses to worship God, even in times of loss and suffering. Pray for Protection Pray for protection against the enemy's schemes and for the ability to stand firm in faith. Answering Tough Questions 1. Job 1:1 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence outside the Bible confirming Job’s existence and great wealth? 2. Job 1:6–8 – Why would an omniscient God need to dialogue with Satan before testing Job’s righteousness? 3. Job 1:12 – How can a benevolent God allow Satan to inflict suffering on a blameless man as part of a wager? 4. Job 1:16–19 – Are there natural or scientific explanations for the rapid succession of disasters that befell Job, or is this account purely symbolic? 5. Job 1:18–19 – Why would God permit the deaths of Job’s children if they were not the ones being tested? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What qualities in Job's character do you find most admirable? 2. How does the dialogue between God and Satan challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty? 3. How does Job's response to his losses serve as a model for facing trials in life? 4. How do you reconcile the concept of a loving God with the permission He gives to Satan to bring suffering upon Job? 5. What parallels can you draw between Job's trials and personal experiences of suffering? 6. How does Job's handling of his losses impact your perception of wealth and material possessions? 7. How does the story challenge the prosperity gospel, which suggests that earthly success is a sign of God's favor? 8. What role does faith play in understanding and dealing with inexplicable loss or suffering? 9. How might Job's story change the way you approach challenges in your life? 10. How do you think you would have reacted if you were in Job's situation? 11. In what ways does Job's story emphasize the spiritual warfare that goes on beyond our sight? 12. How can you apply the principle of Job's integrity in your personal, professional, or spiritual life? 13. What does Job's story teach about the mystery of God's will and His purposes behind our trials? 14. How does this chapter challenge or affirm your understanding of why bad things happen to good people? 15. How does Job's reaction to his trials inform your understanding of worship? 16. In what ways does the story of Job resonate with modern-day issues of loss, suffering, and faith? 17. How can Job's example guide you in supporting others going through difficult times? 18. How does the chapter encourage you to react to losses and setbacks in your life? 19. How does Job 1 challenge you to reassess your understanding of blessings? 20. In what ways does this chapter invite you to reflect on your relationship with God, particularly during times of adversity? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions