◄ Job 29 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Job’s Former Blessings 1And Job continued his discourse: 2“How I long for the months gone by, for the days when God watched over me, 3when His lamp shone above my head, and by His light I walked through the darkness, 4when I was in my prime,a when the friendship of God rested on my tent, 5when the Almighty was still with me and my children were around me, 6when my steps were bathed in cream and the rock poured out for me streams of oil! 7When I went out to the city gate and took my seat in the public square, 8the young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet. 9The princes refrained from speaking and covered their mouths with their hands. 10The voices of the nobles were hushed, and their tongues stuck to the roofs of their mouths. 11For those who heard me called me blessed, and those who saw me commended me, 12because I rescued the poor who cried out and the fatherless who had no helper. 13The dying man blessed me, and I made the widow’s heart sing for joy. 14I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and my turban. 15I served as eyes to the blind and as feet to the lame. 16I was a father to the needy, and I took up the case of the stranger. 17I shattered the fangs of the unjust and snatched the prey from his teeth. 18So I thought: ‘I will die in my nest and multiply my days as the sand. 19My roots will spread out to the waters, and the dew will rest nightly on my branches. 20My glory is ever new within me, and my bow is renewed in my hand.’ 21Men listened to me with expectation, waiting silently for my counsel. 22After my words, they spoke no more; my speech settled on them like dew. 23They waited for me as for rain and drank in my words like spring showers. 24If I smiled at them, they did not believe it; the light of my countenance was precious. 25I chose their course and presided as chief. So I dwelt as a king among his troops, as a comforter of the mourners. Footnotes: 4 a Hebrew in the time of my harvest 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 29 Summary Job's Former Blessings Verses 1–6 – Days of Intimate Favor Job longs for “the months gone by” when “God watched over me, when His lamp shone upon my head” (29:2–3). In that season he enjoyed warm friendship with the Almighty, harmonious family life, and material abundance pictured as cream underfoot and olive oil gushing from rock. Verses 7–10 – Honored Among Elders and Youth As he approached the city gate—the courtroom of the ancient Near East—young men stepped aside, the aged stood, princes hushed, and nobles covered their mouths (29:7–10). Respect for Job was universal. Verses 11–17 – Champion for the Vulnerable Every witness blessed him because he “rescued the poor… the fatherless… those ready to perish” (29:12). He became eyes, feet, and a father to the helpless, breaking “the jaws of the wicked” to save their prey (29:15–17). Verses 18–20 – Expectation of Long Life and Strength Convinced this blessing would never end, Job said, “I will die in my nest and multiply my days like the sand” (29:18). Unfailing dew, flourishing roots, and a constantly renewed bow symbolize vigor and security (29:19–20). Verses 21–25 – Sought-After Counselor People waited for his counsel “as for the spring rains” (29:23). His smile brought encouragement; his verdicts, finality. He sat “as a king among his troops” and “comforted mourners” (29:25). Job 29 is a poignant chapter in the Bible where Job recalls his past days of prosperity and respect, contrasting it with his current state of misery and contempt. This is a turning point, shifting from Job's discourse with his friends to a soliloquy about his past and future, bringing a more personal perspective to his situation. Historical and Cultural Background • City Gates: Archaeology at places such as Gezer and Dan reveals broad benches built into gateways where elders deliberated. Job’s seat there (29:7) marks him as a civic judge. • Olive Oil from Rock (29:6): In the Levant, presses were carved into limestone; heavy stones squeezed fruit so oil literally flowed from rock. • Dew on Branches (29:19): Moisture gathering overnight in semi-arid climates preserved crops—an emblem of constant divine favor (cf. Deuteronomy 33:28). Job 29 within the Book’s Flow Chapter 29 closes Job’s last reply to friends. First he remembers past blessing (ch. 29), then contrasts it with present ridicule (ch. 30), and finally pleads his innocence (ch. 31). The structure heightens the emotional weight of his suffering and sets up God’s later response. Portrait of True Prosperity Job’s prosperity is measured less by livestock counts (1:3) than by: 1. Nearness to God (29:4). 2. Strong family (29:5). 3. Honor in community (29:7-10). 4. Active mercy ministry (29:12-17). 5. Inner confidence (29:18-20). Deuteronomy 28 outlines similar blessings for obedience, showing Job as the picture of covenant ideals even though he lived before Moses. Social Justice and Mercy in Job’s Life Verses 12-17 echo God’s heart: • “Defend the fatherless” (Isaiah 1:17). • “Speak up for those without a voice” (Proverbs 31:8). Job’s actions anticipate Jesus, who “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38) and proclaimed good news to the poor (Luke 4:18). Foreshadowing of Christlike Ministry Job: “I was eyes to the blind” (29:15) Christ: “He restored sight to the blind” (Matthew 11:5). Job: “I broke the fangs of the wicked” (29:17) Christ: “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). Thus Job’s earlier life sketches the Servant-King whom God would later send. Archaeological Insights • Cylinder seals and reliefs from Mesopotamia show judges holding a staff or rod—a likely parallel to Job’s “bow renewed in my hand” (29:20) as a symbol of authority. • Rock-cut tombs in Edom display family “nests” carved high in cliffs, giving color to Job’s hope of dying in his own secure dwelling (29:18). Biblical Threads • Light imagery: God’s lamp in Job 29:3 ties to Psalm 119:105 and John 1:4-5—divine guidance amid darkness. • “Prince kept silent” (29:9) compares with Genesis 41:40 where Pharaoh honors Joseph. • Breaking jaws (29:17) mirrors Psalm 58:6, linking justice with restraining violent oppressors. Practical Applications – Influence is earned through integrity and compassion, not self-promotion. – Prosperity is a stewardship; its highest use is lifting the vulnerable. – Past blessing should lead to deeper trust, not entitlement; only God’s presence is permanent. – When honor evaporates, believers can remember Christ, who “was despised and rejected” (Isaiah 53:3), yet vindicated. Key Cross-References for Further Reading • Deuteronomy 24:17-22 – care for widow, orphan, and stranger. • Psalm 112 – blessings on the righteous who give freely. • Proverbs 19:17 – lending to the Lord by giving to the poor. • James 1:27 – pure religion defined as helping the helpless and remaining unstained by the world. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. This verse echoes the theme of God's presence in times of darkness. Proverbs 31:8-9 Open your mouth for those with no voice, for the justice of all the dispossessed. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the poor and needy. This passage aligns with Job's commitment to justice. James 1:27 Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. This New Testament teaching reinforces the call to compassion and integrity. Teaching Points Job's Past Blessings Job begins by recalling the days when God's lamp shone upon my head, and by His light I walked through darkness (Job 29:3). This imagery highlights the guidance and protection he felt from God. Respect and Honor Job was held in high esteem by his community. When I went to the gate of the city and took my seat in the public square, the young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet (Job 29:7-8). His wisdom and integrity earned him respect. Compassion and Justice Job describes his role as a defender of the needy, saying, I rescued the poor who cried out for help, and the fatherless who had no one to assist him (Job 29:12). His life was marked by justice and compassion. Longing for God's Presence Despite his past blessings, Job's current suffering leads him to yearn for the days when he felt close to God. This longing underscores the importance of God's presence over material wealth. Practical Applications Reflect on God's Past Faithfulness Like Job, take time to remember and give thanks for the times when you have experienced God's guidance and blessings. Seek to Live with Integrity Strive to be a person of integrity and compassion, earning respect through your actions and character. Prioritize God's Presence In times of trial, focus on seeking God's presence and guidance rather than solely longing for past comforts. Be a Voice for the Vulnerable Follow Job's example by advocating for justice and supporting those in need within your community. People 1. Job The central figure in the chapter, Job reminisces about his former days of prosperity and respect. He describes himself as a man who was blessed by God, respected by the community, and a helper to those in need. Job's reflections highlight his righteousness and the honor he received from others. 2. God Referred to indirectly, God is the one who blessed Job in his former days. Job speaks of the time "when the Almighty was still with me" (Job 29:5), indicating God's presence and favor in his life. The Hebrew term used here is "Shaddai," emphasizing God's power and sufficiency. 3. Children Job mentions his children in the context of his past blessings, saying, "when my children were around me" (Job 29:5). This reflects the joy and completeness of his family life during his prosperous days. 4. Young Men Job describes how young men would see him and hide themselves out of respect (Job 29:8). This indicates the reverence and honor he commanded among the younger generation. 5. Aged Men The elders or aged men would rise and stand in his presence (Job 29:8), showing the high regard and respect they had for Job. The Hebrew word "zaqen" is used here, denoting those who are older and typically wise. 6. Princes Job notes that princes refrained from speaking and covered their mouths with their hands when he was present (Job 29:9). This signifies the authority and respect Job held even among the leaders and nobility. 7. Nobles The nobles, or "nobles' voices," were hushed in his presence (Job 29:10). This further emphasizes the influence and esteem Job had in society. 8. The Poor Job recalls how he helped the poor who cried out for assistance (Job 29:12). His actions towards the poor demonstrate his compassion and righteousness. 9. The Fatherless Job was a protector and helper to the fatherless (Job 29:12), showing his commitment to justice and care for the vulnerable. 10. The Dying He speaks of blessing the dying, indicating his role in providing comfort and support to those in their final moments (Job 29:13). 11. The Widow Job made the widow's heart sing for joy (Job 29:13), highlighting his generosity and kindness towards those in distress. 12. The Needy Job was a champion for the needy, delivering them from their oppressors (Job 29:16). This reflects his dedication to justice and righteousness. Places 1. The Gate of the City Job 29:7: "When I went out to the city gate and took my seat in the public square," The city gate was a central place in ancient cities where legal matters were discussed, and elders and leaders would gather. In Hebrew, the term "gate" (שַׁעַר, sha'ar) often signifies a place of authority and judgment. 2. The Public Square Job 29:7: "When I went out to the city gate and took my seat in the public square," The public square was a communal area where people gathered for social interaction and public discourse. It was a place of visibility and influence. Events 1. Job's Past Blessings and God's Favor Job begins by reminiscing about the days when God watched over him. He recalls, "How I long for the months gone by, for the days when God watched over me" (Job 29:2). The Hebrew word for "watched over" (שָׁמַר, shamar) implies a protective and attentive care from God. 2. Divine Light and Guidance Job remembers when God's light shone upon him, guiding him through darkness. "When His lamp shone above my head, and by His light I walked through the darkness" (Job 29:3). The imagery of light (אוֹר, or) signifies divine guidance and presence. 3. Intimate Fellowship with God Job reflects on the intimate relationship he had with God, "when the friendship of God was upon my tent" (Job 29:4). The term "friendship" (סוֹד, sod) suggests a close, confidential relationship. 4. Prosperity and Abundance Job describes his prosperity, "when my steps were bathed in cream and the rock poured out for me streams of oil" (Job 29:6). The imagery of cream and oil symbolizes abundance and wealth. 5. Respect and Honor in the Community Job recalls the respect he received from the community, "When I went to the gate of the city and took my seat in the public square" (Job 29:7). The gate was a place of judgment and leadership, indicating Job's esteemed position. 6. Influence and Authority Job notes how the young men stepped aside and the aged rose to their feet in his presence, "The young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet" (Job 29:8). This reflects his influence and authority. 7. Esteem from Leaders Job was respected by the leaders, "The princes refrained from speaking and covered their mouths with their hands" (Job 29:9). This shows the high regard in which he was held. 8. Admiration and Approval Job was admired and his words were valued, "The voices of the nobles were hushed, and their tongues stuck to the roofs of their mouths" (Job 29:10). This indicates the weight his words carried. 9. Acts of Justice and Charity Job recounts his acts of justice and charity, "I rescued the poor who cried out for help, and the fatherless who had no one to assist them" (Job 29:12). The Hebrew word for "rescued" (חָלַץ, chalats) implies delivering or saving. 10. Blessings from the Needy Job received blessings from those he helped, "The dying man blessed me, and I made the widow’s heart sing for joy" (Job 29:13). This reflects the gratitude and joy he brought to others. 11. Righteousness and Justice as Clothing Job describes his righteousness and justice as his clothing, "I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and turban" (Job 29:14). This metaphor indicates his commitment to moral integrity. 12. Defender of the Helpless Job was a defender of the helpless, "I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame" (Job 29:15). This shows his role as a protector and supporter of the vulnerable. 13. Champion of the Oppressed Job was a champion for the oppressed, "I was a father to the needy, and I took up the case of the stranger" (Job 29:16). This highlights his advocacy for justice. 14. Punisher of the Wicked Job punished the wicked, "I shattered the fangs of the unjust and snatched the prey from his teeth" (Job 29:17). This demonstrates his active role in combating injustice. 15. Expectation of Long Life and Continued Prosperity Job expected a long life and continued prosperity, "I thought, ‘I will die in my own house, my days as numerous as the grains of sand’" (Job 29:18). This reflects his previous confidence in a secure future. 16. Renewal and Strength Job felt renewed and strong, "My roots will spread out to the waters, and the dew will rest nightly on my branches" (Job 29:19). This imagery suggests vitality and growth. 17. Glory and Freshness Job's glory was ever fresh, "My glory is ever new within me, and my bow is renewed in my hand" (Job 29:20). This indicates a sense of ongoing strength and honor. 18. Sought After for Counsel Job was sought after for counsel, "Men listened to me with expectation, waiting silently for my advice" (Job 29:21). This shows his role as a wise counselor. 19. Words Received with Respect Job's words were received with respect, "After my words, they spoke no more; my speech settled on them like dew" (Job 29:22). This reflects the impact and authority of his speech. 20. Leadership and Comfort Job was a leader who brought comfort, "I chose their course and presided as chief. So I dwelt as a king among his troops, as a comforter of mourners" (Job 29:25). This highlights his leadership and compassion. Lessons from Job 29 1. The Power of Remembrance In Job 29, we see Job reflecting on his past, a time when he felt the presence of God in his life. "Oh, that I were as in months past, as in the days when God watched over me" (Job 29:2). Remembering God's past faithfulness can be a powerful tool to strengthen our faith and encourage us during challenging times. It reminds us that God’s presence is constant, even when we don’t feel it. 2. The Blessing of Divine Guidance Job recalls how God’s light shone upon him, guiding his steps. "When His lamp shone above my head, and by His light I walked through the darkness" (Job 29:3). This imagery of divine illumination is a reminder that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Trust in His guidance to navigate life’s uncertainties. 3. The Joy of Community Respect Job was respected and honored in his community, a reflection of his righteous living. "The young men saw me and stepped aside, and the old men rose to their feet" (Job 29:8). Living a life of integrity and righteousness can earn us respect and influence, allowing us to be effective witnesses for Christ. 4. The Importance of Justice and Mercy Job was known for his justice and mercy, helping those in need. "I delivered the poor who cried out, and the fatherless who had no helper" (Job 29:12). This is a call to action for us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing compassion and justice to those around us. 5. The Joy of Being a Blessing Job was a source of blessing to others, and he found joy in it. "I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame" (Job 29:15). There is profound joy in serving others and being a conduit of God’s love and provision. Seek opportunities to bless those around you. 6. The Strength of Righteous Leadership Job’s leadership was marked by righteousness and fairness. "I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and turban" (Job 29:14). True leadership is rooted in righteousness, reflecting God’s character and inspiring others to follow suit. 7. The Assurance of God’s Favor Job felt secure in God’s favor, which was evident in his life. "My roots will spread out to the waters, and the dew will rest nightly on my branches" (Job 29:19). God’s favor is a source of strength and stability, nourishing us like water to a tree. 8. The Value of Wise Counsel Job was sought after for his wisdom and counsel. "They waited for me as for rain and drank in my words like spring showers" (Job 29:23). Wisdom is a precious gift from God, and sharing it can have a profound impact on others. Seek God’s wisdom and be ready to share it. 9. The Impact of a Good Reputation Job’s reputation preceded him, and it was a testament to his character. "Men listened to me with expectation, waiting silently for my counsel" (Job 29:21). A good reputation is built over time through consistent, godly living. Guard it carefully, as it can open doors for ministry and influence. 10. The Hope of Restoration Even in his lament, Job held onto hope for restoration. His reflections in Job 29 remind us that God is a God of restoration. "I thought, ‘I will die in my nest and multiply my days as the sand’" (Job 29:18). No matter the trials we face, we can trust in God’s promise to restore and renew us, both in this life and the next. Topics 1. Job's Past Blessings and Honor Job reflects on the days when God watched over him, highlighting the blessings and honor he once experienced. He recalls, "Oh, that I were as in months gone by, in the days when God watched over me" (Job 29:2). The Hebrew root for "watched over" (שָׁמַר, shamar) conveys a sense of guarding or keeping, emphasizing God's protective presence. 2. Divine Light and Guidance Job remembers the divine light that guided him, saying, "when His lamp shone above my head, and by His light I walked through the darkness" (Job 29:3). The imagery of light (אוֹר, or) in Hebrew often symbolizes guidance, purity, and divine presence. 3. Prosperity and Abundance Job describes a time of prosperity, "when my steps were bathed in cream and the rock poured out for me streams of oil" (Job 29:6). The Hebrew word for "cream" (חֶמְאָה, chemah) and "oil" (שֶׁמֶן, shemen) signify richness and abundance, reflecting God's provision. 4. Respect and Influence in the Community Job recounts the respect he commanded, "When I went to the gate of the city and took my seat in the public square" (Job 29:7). The gate (שַׁעַר, sha'ar) was a place of authority and decision-making, indicating Job's influence and leadership. 5. Esteem from the Young and Old Job notes the esteem he received from all ages, "The young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet" (Job 29:8). This respect from both young (נַעַר, na'ar) and old (יָשִׁישׁ, yashish) underscores his revered status. 6. Role as a Righteous Judge Job highlights his role as a just and righteous judge, "I delivered the poor who cried out and the fatherless who had no helper" (Job 29:12). The Hebrew root for "delivered" (נָצַל, natsal) implies rescue and protection, reflecting Job's commitment to justice. 7. Compassion and Charity Job emphasizes his compassion, "I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame" (Job 29:15). This metaphorical language illustrates his charitable actions and support for the vulnerable. 8. Expectation of Continued Prosperity Job expresses his expectation of continued prosperity, "I thought, ‘I will die in my own house, my days as numerous as the grains of sand’" (Job 29:18). The imagery of "grains of sand" (חוֹל, chol) conveys an expectation of longevity and stability. 9. Authority and Counsel Job recalls his authoritative counsel, "Men listened to me with expectation, waiting silently for my advice" (Job 29:21). The Hebrew root for "listened" (שָׁמַע, shama) indicates attentive hearing, reflecting the weight of his words. 10. Loss of Former Glory Job laments the loss of his former glory, contrasting his past honor with his current state. This theme of lost glory is woven throughout the chapter, underscoring the depth of his suffering and longing for restoration. Themes 1. Nostalgia for Past Blessings Job reflects on the days when he experienced God's favor and protection. He recalls, "Oh, that I were as in months gone by, in the days when God watched over me" (Job 29:2). The Hebrew word for "watched over" (שָׁמַר, shamar) conveys a sense of guarding or keeping, indicating God's protective presence. 2. Divine Light and Guidance Job remembers when God's light shone upon him, guiding his path. He states, "when His lamp shone above my head, and by His light I walked through darkness" (Job 29:3). The imagery of light (אוֹר, or) symbolizes divine guidance and clarity. 3. Prosperity and Abundance Job describes a time of material and social prosperity, "when my steps were bathed in cream and the rock poured out for me streams of oil" (Job 29:6). The Hebrew word for "cream" (חֶמְאָה, chemah) and "oil" (שֶׁמֶן, shemen) suggest richness and abundance. 4. Respect and Honor in the Community Job recalls the respect he received from others, "The young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet" (Job 29:8). This respect is rooted in the Hebrew concept of honor (כָּבוֹד, kavod), reflecting Job's esteemed position. 5. Justice and Righteousness Job highlights his role in upholding justice, "I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and turban" (Job 29:14). The Hebrew words for righteousness (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) and justice (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) emphasize his commitment to moral integrity. 6. Compassion for the Needy Job recounts his acts of kindness, "I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame" (Job 29:15). This reflects the biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable, rooted in the Hebrew understanding of mercy (חֶסֶד, chesed). 7. Leadership and Influence Job describes his leadership role, "I chose their way and sat as chief. I dwelt as a king among his troops" (Job 29:25). The Hebrew word for "chief" (רֹאשׁ, rosh) indicates a position of authority and influence. Prayer Points Gratitude for Past Blessings Thank God for His past faithfulness and the blessings you have experienced. Strength to Live with Integrity Pray for the strength to live a life marked by integrity, justice, and compassion. Desire for God's Presence Ask God to deepen your desire for His presence and guidance, especially in challenging times. Heart for the Vulnerable Pray for a heart that is sensitive to the needs of the vulnerable and the courage to act on their behalf. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Job’s high social standing and widespread respect (Job 29:7–11) be verified through historical or archaeological evidence? 2. Is there any evidence that God’s “lamp” or presence (Job 29:2–3) tangibly guided him, considering modern scientific understanding? 3. Could Job’s remarkable prosperity and divine favor (Job 29:4–6) be historically or scientifically plausible? 4. How do we reconcile Job’s depiction of nearly flawless integrity in Job 29 with biblical teachings on universal human sinfulness (e.g., Romans 3:23)? 5. Is the image of “bathing his steps in butter” (Job 29:6) literal, and does it align with known ancient customs or practices? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Job describe his relationship with God in the past? 2. What aspects of Job's past life does he seem to miss the most? 3. How did Job use his influence and resources when he was prosperous? 4. How did Job's acts of justice reflect his understanding of God's character? 5. What does this chapter teach us about the concept of respect and honor in biblical times? 6. How does Job's yearning for the past resonate with the feelings we might experience in times of personal loss or crisis? 7. How can we maintain our faith in God during times of hardship, similar to Job's predicament? 8. How can we apply Job's past acts of kindness and justice in our daily lives? 9. How does Job's recount of his past help us understand the concept of divine favor? 10. How does society today measure prosperity and respect? How does this compare to Job's description? 11. How can Job's reflection inform our understanding of nostalgia and its impact on our spiritual journey? 12. What lessons can we learn from Job's perspective on leadership and wisdom? 13. How can we ensure that our prosperity does not disconnect us from God and our responsibilities towards society? 14. How can we find comfort and strength in God during our darkest moments, as Job did in his past? 15. How does Job's description of his past impact your understanding of his current sufferings? 16. Can you relate to Job's longing for a better past? How can these feelings be addressed from a Christian perspective? 17. How does Job 29 contribute to the broader themes of suffering and righteousness in the Book of Job? 18. How can we cultivate a life of lasting influence and respect, as depicted in Job's past? 19. What does Job's narrative teach us about the ephemeral nature of material wealth? 20. What steps can we take today to strengthen our relationship with God, following Job's depiction of his past relationship with Him? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions