◄ Job 12 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Job Presents His Case 1Then Job answered: 2“Truly then you are the people with whom wisdom itself will die! 3But I also have a mind; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know such things as these? 4I am a laughingstock to my friends, though I called on God, and He answered. The righteous and upright man is a laughingstock. 5The one at ease scorns misfortune as the fate of those whose feet are slipping. 6The tents of robbers are safe, and those who provoke God are secure— those who carry their god in their hands.a 7But ask the animals, and they will instruct you; ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you. 8Or speak to the earth, and it will teach you; let the fish of the sea inform you. 9Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? 10The life of every living thing is in His hand, as well as the breath of all mankind. 11Does not the ear test words as the tongue tastes its food? 12Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life. 13Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His. 14What He tears down cannot be rebuilt; the man He imprisons cannot be released. 15If He holds back the waters, they dry up, and if He releases them, they overwhelm the land. 16True wisdom and power belong to Him. The deceived and the deceiver are His. 17He leads counselors away barefoot and makes fools of judges. 18He loosens the bonds placed by kings and fastens a belt around their waists. 19He leads priests away barefoot and overthrows the established. 20He deprives the trusted of speech and takes away the discernment of elders. 21He pours out contempt on nobles and disarms the mighty. 22He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into light. 23He makes nations great and destroys them; He enlarges nations, then disperses them. 24He deprives the earth’s leaders of reason and makes them wander in a trackless wasteland. 25They grope in the darkness without light; He makes them stagger like drunkards. Footnotes: 6 a Or though God keeps them in His power 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 12 Summary Job Presents His Case Verses 1–3 – Job’s Sarcastic Reply to His Friends Job fires back, telling his friends they are not the sole owners of wisdom. He knows everything they know and refuses to be treated like someone beneath them. Verses 4–6 – Job’s Present Humiliation vs. the Wicked at Ease He points out the irony that he, a man who called on God, is mocked, while robbers and idolaters seem secure and untouched. Verses 7–12 – Creation Testifies to God’s Wisdom Job directs his friends to the animals, birds, fish, and earth itself. All creation agrees that the LORD’s hand is behind every life and every breath, proving God’s unequaled understanding. Verses 13–25 – God’s Absolute Sovereignty Over All Job piles up vivid images: God tears down barriers, overthrows nations, strips counselors of sense, blinds leaders, and brings princes to nothing. No human plan can stand when He decides otherwise. Job 12 is a compelling chapter in the Bible, marking a turning point in the discourse between Job and his friends. This chapter records Job's keen rebuttal to his friends who have been admonishing him to admit his wrongdoings and seek God's forgiveness. Job illuminates their lack of understanding and boldly reasserts his righteous standing, leading the discourse to a profound exploration of divine wisdom and human limitations. Context within Job Job 12 begins the second cycle of speeches. Zophar has just accused Job of hidden sin (chapter 11). Job answers not with self-defense this time but by magnifying God’s power and exposing the shallowness of his friends’ advice. The chapter is the first of three linked talks (chapters 12–14) in which Job wrestles aloud with divine rule. Literary Flow 1. Verses 1–6: Sharp irony—Job lowers the boom on the trio’s supposed brilliance. 2. Verses 7–12: A nature lesson showing God’s wisdom. 3. Verses 13–25: A hymn on God’s rule over rulers, nations, and creation. The structure rises from personal frustration to universal theology. Key Themes and Lessons • Human wisdom is limited. Even sincere friends can speak half-truths (vv. 1–3). • Suffering is not a reliable indicator of guilt or innocence (vv. 4–6). • Nature itself teaches that God holds every creature’s breath (vv. 7–10). See Acts 17:25—“He Himself gives to all life and breath and everything else.” • God controls governments and history (vv. 13–25). Compare Daniel 2:21. Connections to the Rest of Scripture Genesis 2:7 matches Job 12:10—“in His hand is the life of every creature.” Psalm 104 echoes Job’s nature hymn, celebrating God’s care for animals and land. Isaiah 40:23 parallels Job 12:24—God “reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.” Romans 11:33 is a New Testament amen to Job’s view: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” Historical and Cultural Insights • “Counselors” (v. 17) and “elders” (v. 20) were real powerbrokers in the ancient Near East—tribal chiefs, city-state advisers, court sages. Job says God can baffle them in an instant. • “He leads priests away stripped” (v. 19). Priests in Job’s era often held political sway. The image is one of humiliation—clothes torn off like prisoners of war. • Blindness (v. 25) was a common battlefield curse in the Ancient Near East; conquering kings sometimes gouged out eyes. Job flips that practice: it is the LORD, not human armies, who blinds or guides. Archaeological Notes • Clay tablets from Mesopotamia preserve laments close in tone to Job—sufferers protest innocence and question the gods. Job 12 offers a biblical answer: the LORD alone orchestrates events, not a capricious pantheon. • Excavations at ancient gate complexes show benches where elders sat (cf. v. 17). Job’s point: even the most stable city council melts before God’s will. • Reliefs of Assyrian kings dragging captive priests corroborate Job 12:19’s imagery of stripped religious leaders. Word Studies • “Wisdom” (Hebrew chokmah, v. 12). More than brains—skill for living under God. • “Counsel” (etsah, v. 13). Strategic planning; God’s counsel supersedes all others. • “Overthrows” (sog, v. 14). Literally “turns upside down,” used of ruined walls—God flips human security like a potter smashing clay. Theology of God’s Sovereignty Job’s speech stacks example upon example: – Natural world (vv. 7–10). – Human society (vv. 11–12). – Political powers (vv. 13–25). Nothing escapes the Creator’s hand. The chapter anticipates Paul’s doxology in Ephesians 1:11—God “works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will.” Practical Application • Question advice that ignores God’s larger purposes. • Measure success or hardship by faithfulness, not by comfort. • Let creation’s witness—birds in flight, rivers in flood—renew trust in the LORD’s wise oversight. • Remember that leaders rise and fall at God’s command; keep ultimate confidence anchored in Him, not human systems. Selected Berean Standard Bible Quotations Job 12:10 “The life of every creature is in His hand, and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:13 “Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His.” Job 12:23 “He makes nations great and destroys them; He enlarges nations, then disperses them.” Job 12 stands as a rallying cry to look beyond surface answers and rest in the power, wisdom, and freedom of the living God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 55:8-9 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Romans 11:33 O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways! Teaching Points Job's Sarcasm and Frustration Job begins with a sarcastic remark, No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you! (Job 12:2). This highlights his frustration with his friends' perceived superiority and lack of true understanding. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty Job acknowledges that wisdom and power belong to God, stating, With Him are wisdom and strength; counsel and understanding are His (Job 12:13). This underscores the belief that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and strength. God's Control Over Creation Job describes God's control over the natural world and human affairs, illustrating that nothing happens outside of His will. He makes nations great, and He destroys them; He enlarges nations, and He disperses them (Job 12:23). Human Limitations Job emphasizes human limitations in understanding God's ways, suggesting that even the wise and the mighty are subject to God's will. He deprives the trusted of speech and takes away the discernment of elders (Job 12:20). Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of confusion and suffering, remember that God is in control. Trust that His wisdom surpasses human understanding. Seek True Wisdom Instead of relying solely on human counsel, seek wisdom from God, who is the source of all understanding. Humility in Knowledge Recognize the limitations of human wisdom and approach God with humility, acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours. Comfort Others with Empathy When comforting others, avoid assuming superiority in wisdom. Instead, offer empathy and understanding, recognizing that only God fully comprehends each situation. People 1. Job Job is the central figure in this chapter, speaking in response to his friends. He is a man of great suffering and is known for his patience and faithfulness. In Job 12, he asserts his understanding and challenges the simplistic views of his friends. He emphasizes his own knowledge and experience, saying, "I have understanding as well as you; I am not inferior to you" (Job 12:3). 2. God Although not directly speaking in this chapter, God is a central figure in Job's discourse. Job acknowledges God's sovereignty and wisdom, stating, "With Him are wisdom and strength; counsel and understanding belong to Him" (Job 12:13). Job recognizes that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and power, and he attributes the workings of the world to God's control. 3. Job's Friends While not named individually in this chapter, Job's friends are the audience of his speech. They have been offering explanations for Job's suffering, which Job finds unsatisfactory. He addresses them collectively, challenging their assumptions and the validity of their counsel. In the original Hebrew text, the name "Job" (אִיּוֹב, 'Iyyov) is used, and the references to God use the term "El" (אֵל), emphasizing His might and power. The chapter reflects Job's deep struggle with understanding his suffering in light of God's sovereignty. Places 1. Earth Job refers to the earth as a source of wisdom and understanding. In Job 12:8, he says, "Or speak to the earth, and it will teach you." The Hebrew word for earth here is "אֶרֶץ" (erets), which can mean land, ground, or the whole earth. 2. Sea The sea is mentioned as part of God's creation that can provide insight. In Job 12:8, it states, "Let the fish of the sea inform you." The Hebrew word for sea is "יָם" (yam), indicating large bodies of water. 3. Underworld/Sheol While not explicitly named in this chapter, the concept of the underworld or the realm of the dead is implied in Job's discussion of life and death. The Hebrew term often used for this is "שְׁאוֹל" (Sheol), referring to the abode of the dead. Events 1. Job's Sarcastic Response to His Friends Job begins by sarcastically acknowledging the wisdom of his friends, implying that their understanding is not as profound as they believe. He says, "No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you" (Job 12:2). This sets the tone for his critique of their counsel. 2. Job Asserts His Own Understanding Job claims that he too has understanding and is not inferior to his friends. He states, "But I also have a mind; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know such things as these?" (Job 12:3). This highlights his frustration with their simplistic explanations. 3. Job Describes His Mockery by Friends Job laments that he has become a laughingstock to his friends despite being righteous and blameless. He says, "I am a laughingstock to my friends, though I called on God and He answered" (Job 12:4). This reflects his sense of injustice and betrayal. 4. Observation of the Prosperity of the Wicked Job observes that those who are at ease often despise misfortune, and the tents of robbers prosper. He notes, "The tents of robbers are safe, and those who provoke God are secure" (Job 12:6). This challenges the retributive justice his friends advocate. 5. Job Points to Nature's Testimony of God's Sovereignty Job invites his friends to consider the natural world as evidence of God's power and wisdom. He says, "But ask the animals, and they will instruct you; ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you" (Job 12:7). This emphasizes the universal recognition of God's sovereignty. 6. Affirmation of God's Control Over Creation Job affirms that God holds the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. He declares, "In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind" (Job 12:10). This underscores God's ultimate authority over life. 7. Wisdom and Power Belong to God Job acknowledges that true wisdom and power belong to God, who can both build up and tear down. He states, "To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are His" (Job 12:13). This contrasts human limitations with divine omnipotence. 8. God's Sovereign Actions in the World Job describes various actions of God, such as leading counselors away stripped and making judges fools. He says, "He leads counselors away barefoot and makes fools of judges" (Job 12:17). This illustrates God's ability to overturn human authority and wisdom. 9. God's Control Over Nations and Leaders Job continues by describing how God can both enlarge and destroy nations, and how He can deprive leaders of understanding. He notes, "He makes nations great, and destroys them; He enlarges nations, and disperses them" (Job 12:23). This highlights God's control over geopolitical affairs. 10. Conclusion with God's Unsearchable Ways Job concludes by acknowledging the mysterious and unsearchable nature of God's ways, as He brings both light and darkness. He states, "He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into light" (Job 12:22). This reflects the complexity and depth of God's governance. Lessons from Job 12 1. Wisdom Belongs to God In Job 12:13, we read, "Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His." This verse reminds us that true wisdom is not found in human intellect or worldly knowledge but in God alone. When we seek guidance, we should turn to Him, trusting that His understanding surpasses all. By aligning our decisions with His wisdom, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Creation Job 12:10 states, "The life of every living thing is in His hand, as well as the breath of all mankind." This powerful truth underscores God's sovereignty over all creation. Recognizing that every breath we take is a gift from Him can inspire gratitude and humility. It encourages us to live purposefully, knowing that our lives are held in the hands of a loving Creator. 3. The Limits of Human Understanding In Job 12:3, Job acknowledges, "But I also have a mind like you; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know such things as these?" Here, Job points out that human understanding is limited. We may think we know it all, but only God sees the full picture. This lesson teaches us to approach life with humility, always open to learning and growing in our faith. 4. The Power of God's Creation Job 12:7-8 invites us to "ask the animals, and they will instruct you; ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you. Or speak to the earth, and it will teach you." Nature itself testifies to God's power and creativity. Observing the world around us can deepen our appreciation for His handiwork and remind us of His presence in every aspect of life. 5. God's Control Over Nations Job 12:23 reveals, "He makes nations great, and He destroys them; He enlarges nations, and He disperses them." This verse highlights God's control over the rise and fall of nations. It reassures us that no matter the political climate, God remains in control. Our trust should be in Him, not in earthly powers, as He orchestrates history according to His divine plan. 6. The Value of Silence and Reflection In Job 12:11, we find, "Does not the ear test words as the tongue tastes food?" This metaphor encourages us to be discerning listeners, valuing silence and reflection. By taking time to ponder and pray, we can better understand God's will and respond wisely to life's situations. Silence can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and discernment. 7. The Reality of Suffering Job's story is a testament to the reality of suffering. In Job 12:4, he laments, "I am a laughingstock to my friends, though I called on God and He answered." Suffering is part of the human experience, but it doesn't mean God has abandoned us. Instead, it can be an opportunity to deepen our faith and reliance on Him, trusting that He is with us in every trial. 8. The Importance of Integrity Job's unwavering integrity is evident throughout his trials. In Job 12:4, he maintains his righteousness despite being mocked. This teaches us the importance of holding onto our integrity, even when faced with adversity. Our character should reflect our faith, serving as a testament to God's work in our lives. 9. God's Unfathomable Ways Job 12:22 declares, "He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into light." God's ways are often beyond our comprehension, but He brings clarity and understanding in His time. Trusting in His unfathomable ways allows us to rest in His promises, knowing that He works all things for our good. 10. The Assurance of God's Justice Finally, Job 12:6 reminds us, "The tents of robbers are safe, and those who provoke God are secure—those who carry their god in their hands." While it may seem that injustice prevails, we can be assured that God's justice will ultimately prevail. Our hope lies in His righteous judgment, which will bring about true justice in His perfect timing. Topics 1. Job's Sarcastic Response to His Friends (Job 12:1-3) Job begins by sarcastically acknowledging the supposed wisdom of his friends, implying that their understanding is not as profound as they believe. He states, "No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you!" (Job 12:2). The Hebrew word for "wisdom" here is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), emphasizing the depth and value of true wisdom, which Job feels his friends lack. 2. Job's Vindication of His Own Understanding (Job 12:4-6) Job asserts his own understanding and righteousness, despite being mocked. He says, "I am a laughingstock to my friends" (Job 12:4). The Hebrew root "שָׂחַק" (sachaq) for "laughingstock" conveys the scorn and derision he feels from those who should support him. 3. The Sovereignty of God in Creation (Job 12:7-10) Job points to the natural world as evidence of God's sovereignty, stating that even animals and the earth testify to God's hand in creation. "But ask the animals, and they will instruct you" (Job 12:7). The Hebrew word "יָד" (yad) for "hand" in verse 9 signifies God's power and control over all creation. 4. God's Control Over Wisdom and Power (Job 12:11-13) Job acknowledges that true wisdom and power belong to God alone. "Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His" (Job 12:13). The Hebrew "תּוּשִׁיָּה" (tushiyyah) for "counsel" underscores the depth and reliability of God's guidance. 5. God's Authority Over Nations and Leaders (Job 12:14-25) Job describes God's ultimate authority over the rise and fall of nations and leaders. He states, "He makes nations great, and destroys them" (Job 12:23). The Hebrew "גּוֹי" (goy) for "nations" reflects the broad scope of God's dominion over all peoples and lands. Themes 1. Human Wisdom vs. Divine Wisdom Job challenges the notion that his friends possess superior wisdom. He asserts that true wisdom and understanding belong to God. Job 12:2-3 states, "Truly then you are the people, and wisdom will die with you! But I also have a mind; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know such things as these?" The Hebrew word for wisdom, "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), emphasizes skill and insight, which Job argues is ultimately sourced in God. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Creation Job acknowledges God's absolute control over the natural world and all living creatures. In Job 12:7-10, he says, "But ask the animals, and they will instruct you; ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you... In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind." The Hebrew term "יָד" (yad), meaning "hand," symbolizes God's power and authority over life. 3. The Power and Authority of God Job describes God's unmatched power and authority over all things, including the rise and fall of nations. Job 12:13-15 declares, "Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His. What He tears down cannot be rebuilt; the man He imprisons cannot be released." The Hebrew word "כֹּחַ" (koach) for "strength" underscores God's might and capability. 4. The Futility of Human Counsel Against God Job emphasizes the futility of human plans and counsel when they oppose God's will. In Job 12:17, he states, "He leads counselors away barefoot and makes fools of judges." The Hebrew root "הָלַךְ" (halak), meaning "to lead," illustrates God's ability to direct and confound human wisdom. 5. God's Control Over Human Leaders Job highlights God's control over kings and rulers, demonstrating that their power is subject to His will. Job 12:18-21 says, "He loosens the bonds placed by kings and fastens a belt around their waists... He pours out contempt on nobles and disarms the mighty." The Hebrew word "פָּתַח" (pathach), meaning "to loosen," indicates God's authority to change the status of leaders. 6. The Hiddenness and Revelation of God's Wisdom Job acknowledges that God's wisdom is often hidden from human understanding, yet He reveals it according to His purposes. In Job 12:22, it is written, "He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into light." The Hebrew word "גָּלָה" (galah), meaning "to reveal," signifies God's ability to uncover hidden truths. Prayer Points Pray for Trust Ask God to help you trust in His sovereignty, especially during difficult times. Pray for Wisdom Seek God's wisdom in your daily decisions and interactions with others. Pray for Humility Request a humble heart that acknowledges the limitations of human understanding and seeks God's guidance. Pray for Empathy Ask God to give you a compassionate heart to comfort others with empathy and understanding. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 12:6, how does the idea that “the tents of robbers are at peace” harmonize with other scriptures that insist the wicked are eventually punished? 2. In Job 12:9–10, how can animals themselves attest to God’s power in a way that is scientifically or empirically verifiable? 3. In Job 12:15, does attributing floods and droughts solely to divine intervention conflict with natural explanations of these phenomena? 4. In Job 12:16, how can God be responsible for both the deceiver and the deceived without contradicting verses that uphold His truthfulness? 5. In Job 12:23–25, does the depiction of God as actively causing nations to stumble clash with the Bible’s emphasis on human free will and moral accountability? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Job's sarcastic tone in the beginning of the chapter reflect his emotional state? 2. What does Job mean when he says, "wisdom will die with you"? 3. What is the significance of Job asserting that he is not inferior to his friends? 4. How does Job's mockery of his own righteousness challenge traditional notions of justice? 5. How does Job's statement about wicked people thriving contrast with his own situation? 6. What can we learn about God's wisdom and power from Job's appeal to nature? 7. Why does Job attribute the life of every creature to God's hand? 8. How does Job depict the extent of God's dominion in verses 11-25? 9. How does Job reconcile his own suffering with the overwhelming wisdom and power of God? 10. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of divine wisdom and human suffering? 11. Have you ever felt misunderstood or falsely accused like Job? How did you handle it? 12. In what ways can you relate to Job's feelings of frustration and isolation? 13. How does the injustice of Job's situation speak to the question of why bad things happen to good people? 14. How might Job's appeal to nature inform our understanding of God's relationship with the natural world? 15. What does Job's description of God's power mean for your own understanding of God? 16. How can Job's responses to his friends guide us in responding to unhelpful or misinformed advice? 17. How does Job's discourse contribute to your understanding of faith amid suffering? 18. In what ways can you seek and understand God's wisdom in your daily life? 19. How can Job's situation help us empathize with those going through unjust suffering today? 20. Considering Job's words, how would you explain the wisdom and power of God to someone who is suffering? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions