◄ Job 21 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Job: God Will Punish the Wicked 1Then Job answered: 2“Listen carefully to my words; let this be your consolation to me. 3Bear with me while I speak; then, after I have spoken, you may go on mocking. 4Is my complaint against a man? Then why should I not be impatient? 5Look at me and be appalled; put your hand over your mouth. 6When I remember, terror takes hold, and my body trembles in horror. 7Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power? 8Their descendants are established around them, and their offspring before their eyes. 9Their homes are safe from fear; no rod of punishment from God is upon them. 10Their bulls breed without fail; their cows bear calves and do not miscarry. 11They send forth their little ones like a flock; their children skip about, 12singing to the tambourine and lyre and making merry at the sound of the flute. 13They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace.a 14Yet they say to God: ‘Leave us alone! For we have no desire to know Your ways. 15Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him, and what would we gain if we pray to Him?’ 16Still, their prosperity is not in their own hands, so I stay far from the counsel of the wicked. 17How often is the lamp of the wicked put out? Does disaster come upon them? Does God, in His anger, apportion destruction? 18Are they like straw before the wind, like chaff swept away by a storm? 19It is said that God lays up one’s punishment for his children. Let God repay the man himself, so he will know it. 20Let his eyes see his own destruction; let him drink for himself the wrath of the Almighty. 21For what does he care about his household after him, when the number of his months has run out? 22Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since He judges those on high? 23One man dies full of vigor, completely secure and at ease. 24His body is well nourished,b and his bones are rich with marrow. 25Yet another man dies in the bitterness of his soul, having never tasted prosperity. 26But together they lie down in the dust, and worms cover them both. 27Behold, I know your thoughts full well, the schemes by which you would wrong me. 28For you say, ‘Where now is the nobleman’s house, and where are the tents in which the wicked dwell?’ 29Have you never asked those who travel the roads? Do you not accept their reports? 30Indeed, the evil man is spared from the day of calamity, delivered from the day of wrath. 31Who denounces his behavior to his face? Who repays him for what he has done? 32He is carried to the grave, and watch is kept over his tomb. 33The clods of the valley are sweet to him; everyone follows behind him, and those before him are without number. 34So how can you comfort me with empty words? For your answers remain full of falsehood.” Footnotes: 13 a Or in an instant 24 b Literally His pails are full of milk 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 21 Summary Job: God Will Punish the Wicked Verses 1–3 – Job’s Plea for Attention Job interrupts the debate with a simple request: “Listen carefully to my words; let this be the consolation you offer me.” He promises that after he has spoken, his friends may keep mocking if they wish, but first he must be heard. Verses 4–6 – Shock and Horror at His Plight Job insists his complaint is not ultimately against people but against God. When he thinks about what has happened, a shudder runs through him and his flesh trembles. His suffering is so intense that it frightens even him. Verses 7–16 – The Prosperity of the Wicked Job dismantles the assumption that sin always brings swift ruin. “Why do the wicked live on, grow old, and even increase in power?” Their children are established, their houses secure, their livestock multiply, and they spend their days in ease. They say to God, “Depart from us! We have no desire to know Your ways,” yet their prosperity seems untouched. Job refuses to accept their success as proof of God’s favor, adding, “The counsel of the wicked is far from me!” Verses 17–21 – Questioning Immediate Retribution Job asks how often calamity actually overtakes such people. Is their “lamp” ever snuffed out quickly? Do they regularly experience God’s anger like straw before the wind? The friends claim God stores up wrath for the wicked person’s children, but Job protests: let the sinner face God’s wrath himself, for what does he care what happens after he dies? Verses 22–26 – Death Levels All “Can anyone teach knowledge to God…?” Job reminds them that rich and poor alike end in the dust. One dies in full vigor, “his body well nourished,” another in bitterness of soul, never having enjoyed good things, yet “they lie down together in the dust.” Verses 27–34 – Exposing the Friends’ Error Job knows his friends’ thoughts—they think they have found evidence of hidden sin. He urges them to research the real world: travelers will confirm that the wicked are often spared in the day of disaster. Grave markers stand in their honor, crowds march after their coffins. “How then will you console me with empty words? Your answers remain full of falsehood.” Job 21 presents a riveting counter-argument by Job in response to the arguments put forth by his friends. In this chapter, Job challenges the conventional wisdom of his time that equates prosperity with righteousness and suffering with wickedness. By using rhetorical questions and keen observations, Job points out the paradox of the wicked's prosperity, thereby highlighting the inscrutable nature of God's justice. Setting in the Book of Job Job 21 closes the second speech cycle. The friends have argued that suffering proves guilt; Job counters by showing that the world is not so simple. This chapter is the pivot of their debate: it shatters the neat “good things happen to good people” formula and forces everyone to grapple with mysteries only God can unravel (Job 42:3). Historical and Cultural Notes • Patriarchal Worldview: Job describes vast flocks, numerous servants, and long lifespans—markers of success in the era of Abraham (Genesis 13:2). • Children as Legacy: Verses 8–11 underline the ancient belief that a man’s future rested in healthy offspring (Psalm 127:3-5). • Funerary Customs: Verse 33’s picture of people following a coffin and “clods of the valley” illustrates an honored burial with mourners lining the route, an image found in Near-Eastern tomb art and texts. Archaeological Insights • Household Idols and Prosperity: Excavations at late-Bronze and early-Iron Age sites in Edom and northern Arabia reveal small household gods, aligning with verse 14 where the wicked dismiss “the Almighty,” preferring tangible deities of fortune. • Rock-Cut Tombs: The description of a grave embraced by the valley’s soil (v. 32-33) fits the rock-hewn tombs south of the Dead Sea, often fronted by a procession way wide enough for a mournful crowd. Key Themes and Lessons 1. Prosperity of the Wicked: Earthly success is not an automatic endorsement by heaven (Psalm 73). 2. Limits of Human Observation: Job’s survey of life seems to contradict divine justice, yet he never abandons trust in God’s sovereignty (Habakkuk 1:2-4; 2:4). 3. The Equality of Death: Rich and poor ultimately face the same grave, foreshadowing Ecclesiastes 9:2. 4. Listening to the Suffering: Job begs for empathy before verdicts—an enduring call in Galatians 6:2. Scriptural Cross-References • Psalm 73:3-12 – Asaph’s bewilderment at the carefree wicked. • Jeremiah 12:1 – “Why does the way of the wicked prosper?” • Luke 12:16-21 – The rich fool who died before enjoying his plenty. • James 5:1-6 – Warning to the wealthy who oppress. • Hebrews 9:27 – “People are appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment,” echoing Job’s insistence that ultimate justice is God’s domain. Language Highlights • v. 17 “Lamp of the wicked” – Hebrew ner, a common image for life and fortune (2 Samuel 21:17). • v. 19 “His children” – Job challenges the idea of trans-generational punishment (Deuteronomy 24:16). • v. 34 “Your answers remain full of falsehood” – Hebrew sheker stresses emptiness, lying, vapor. God’s Character Revealed Job never doubts God’s existence; his struggle is to reconcile God’s goodness with observable reality. Scripture later affirms that God’s patience holds back immediate judgment, “not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9), while reserving a day of righteous reckoning (Acts 17:31). Connections to the New Testament • Jesus points to a fallen tower killing eighteen bystanders as evidence that catastrophe does not single out greater sinners (Luke 13:4). • Paul echoes Job’s thought in Romans 9:20, “But who are you, O man, to talk back to God?” highlighting God’s unchallengeable wisdom (Job 21:22). • Revelation 6:10 shows martyrs asking the same question—how long until justice?—linking Job’s cry to end-time hope. Application for Believers Today • Avoid simplistic judgments when others suffer; only God sees the heart. • Prosperity can mask deep rebellion; use blessing as a cue for gratitude, not pride. • When life seems unfair, remember Job’s honesty before God is welcomed, not condemned. • Hold fast to future justice; the cross and the empty tomb guarantee that wrongs will ultimately be righted (Revelation 21:4-5). Summary Thought Job 21 invites believers to trade pat answers for humble trust. In a world where wickedness sometimes rides in a parade and righteousness sits on an ash heap, God remains Judge, Savior, and the final word on every life story. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 73:3-12 This passage echoes Job's observations about the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous. Ecclesiastes 8:14 Solomon also grapples with the apparent injustice in the world, noting that the righteous and the wicked often receive what seems undeserved. Romans 11:33 Paul marvels at the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge, acknowledging that His judgments are unsearchable. Teaching Points Job's Plea for Attention Job begins by asking his friends to listen carefully to his words, emphasizing the importance of understanding his perspective (Job 21:2-3). The Prosperity of the Wicked Job observes that the wicked often live long, prosperous lives, seemingly untouched by divine retribution (Job 21:7-13). This challenges the retributive justice theory held by his friends. The Indifference of the Wicked Despite their prosperity, the wicked often reject God, saying, Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him? (Job 21:15). Job highlights their arrogance and spiritual blindness. The Mystery of Divine Justice Job acknowledges that the wicked may face judgment eventually, but it is not always immediate or visible (Job 21:17-18). This underscores the complexity of God's justice. The Limits of Human Understanding Job concludes by pointing out that human understanding of God's ways is limited, and we cannot always discern His purposes (Job 21:22). Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when circumstances seem unjust, we are called to trust in God's ultimate wisdom and sovereignty. Avoid Simplistic Judgments Be cautious of making quick judgments about others' suffering or prosperity based on outward appearances. Seek a Deeper Relationship with God Instead of focusing on material prosperity, prioritize a genuine relationship with God, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from Him. Patience in Suffering Understand that suffering is not always a result of personal sin, and be patient, knowing that God's justice will prevail in His timing. People 1. Job Job is the central figure in this chapter, as he continues his response to his friends. He challenges their understanding of the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous. Job's discourse in this chapter is a part of his larger dialogue with his friends, where he expresses his frustration and seeks to understand the justice of God. In Job 21, Job speaks extensively, but he does not mention other specific individuals by name. Instead, he refers generally to the wicked and the righteous, contrasting their experiences. The focus is on Job's argument and his observations about life and divine justice. The Berean Standard Bible provides a clear translation of Job's speech, capturing the essence of his lament and his questioning of the prosperity of the wicked. The Hebrew roots in this chapter emphasize the themes of justice, prosperity, and suffering, which are central to Job's discourse. Places 1. Their Houses Job 21:9 mentions, "Their homes are safe from fear; the rod of God is not upon them." The Hebrew word for "houses" (בָּתֵּיהֶם, battehem) refers to the physical dwellings of the wicked, symbolizing their security and prosperity. 2. The Grave Job 21:13 states, "They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace." The term "Sheol" (שְׁאוֹל, she'ol) is the Hebrew word for the grave or the abode of the dead, often used in the Old Testament to describe the afterlife or the place where souls reside after death. Events 1. Job's Response Begins Job begins his response to his friends, asking them to listen carefully to his words. He requests their patience and understanding as he speaks. (Job 21:1-2) 2. Job's Request for Attention Job asks his friends to bear with him while he speaks, and after he has spoken, they can continue mocking him if they choose. (Job 21:3) 3. Job's Complaint Against God Job expresses his frustration and bewilderment, questioning why he should not be impatient given his circumstances. He feels that his complaint is directed towards God. (Job 21:4) 4. Job's Description of the Wicked's Prosperity Job describes how the wicked often live prosperous lives, free from the troubles that afflict others. He notes that they grow old, become powerful, and live in security. (Job 21:7-9) 5. The Wicked's Family and Wealth Job observes that the wicked see their children established and their homes safe from fear. Their livestock breeds without fail, and they enjoy music and celebration. (Job 21:10-12) 6. The Wicked's Rejection of God Despite their prosperity, the wicked reject God, saying, "Depart from us, for we have no desire to know Your ways." They question the benefit of serving God. (Job 21:14-15) 7. Job's Reflection on Divine Justice Job acknowledges that the prosperity of the wicked is not due to their own doing, but he questions why they are allowed to prosper. He challenges the idea that their prosperity is a result of divine favor. (Job 21:16) 8. The Fate of the Wicked Job argues that the wicked are often spared from calamity and judgment in this life, contrary to what his friends have suggested. He questions why they are not punished immediately. (Job 21:17-18) 9. The Wicked's Death Job notes that the wicked often die peacefully, without suffering, and are buried with honor. He contrasts this with the suffering of the righteous. (Job 21:23-26) 10. Job's Challenge to His Friends Job challenges his friends to show him where he is wrong in his observations about the wicked. He accuses them of offering empty comfort and falsehoods. (Job 21:27-34) Throughout Job 21, Job grapples with the apparent injustice of the wicked prospering while the righteous suffer. He questions the traditional understanding of divine justice, highlighting the complexity of God's governance and the mystery of human suffering. Lessons from Job 21 1. The Prosperity of the Wicked is Temporary Job observes that the wicked often seem to prosper, living in comfort and ease. However, he reminds us that their prosperity is fleeting. As Job says, "They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace" (Job 21:13). This serves as a reminder that earthly success is not the ultimate measure of a life well-lived. 2. God's Justice is Beyond Our Understanding Job challenges the simplistic view that suffering is always a direct result of sin. He points out that the wicked often escape immediate punishment, suggesting that God's justice operates on a timeline beyond our comprehension. "Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since He judges those on high?" (Job 21:22). Trust in God's perfect timing and justice. 3. The Importance of Listening Job begins by asking his friends to truly listen to him: "Listen carefully to my words; let this be your consolation" (Job 21:2). This highlights the importance of listening to others with empathy and understanding, rather than jumping to conclusions or offering unsolicited advice. 4. The Futility of Envying the Wicked Job warns against envying the apparent success of the wicked. Their lives may seem enviable, but their end is not. "How often is the lamp of the wicked put out?" (Job 21:17). Instead of envying, focus on living a life that honors God, knowing that true reward is eternal. 5. The Reality of Death for All Job reminds us that death is the great equalizer, affecting both the righteous and the wicked. "One dies full of vigor, completely secure and at ease... Another man dies in bitterness of soul, never having tasted prosperity" (Job 21:23-25). This perspective encourages us to live with eternity in mind, valuing what truly matters. 6. The Danger of Assumptions Job's friends assumed his suffering was due to sin, but Job challenges this notion. "How then can you comfort me with empty words?" (Job 21:34). Be cautious of making assumptions about others' circumstances; instead, offer support and compassion. 7. The Sovereignty of God Job acknowledges that God is in control, even when life seems unfair. "Is not their prosperity in their own hands? The counsel of the wicked is far from me" (Job 21:16). Trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him. 8. The Value of Honest Dialogue Job's candid conversation with his friends, though challenging, underscores the value of honest dialogue. "Bear with me while I speak, and after I have spoken, you may keep mocking" (Job 21:3). Engage in open and honest discussions, seeking truth and understanding. 9. The Limitations of Human Wisdom Job highlights the limitations of human wisdom in understanding God's ways. "How often are they like straw before the wind, like chaff swept away by a storm?" (Job 21:18). Recognize that our understanding is limited, and seek wisdom from God, who gives generously to all who ask. 10. The Hope of Redemption While Job's discourse is filled with questions and challenges, it ultimately points to the hope of redemption. Though he struggles, Job's faith in God remains. This foreshadows the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ, who offers salvation and eternal life to all who believe. In reflecting on Job 21, we are reminded to trust in God's justice, listen with empathy, and live with eternity in mind. Let these lessons guide you in your daily walk, as you seek to honor God in all you do. Topics 1. Job's Response to His Friends Job begins his discourse by addressing his friends, asking them to listen carefully to his words. He seeks understanding and patience from them as he expresses his grievances. ^“Listen carefully to my words; let this be your consolation to me.”^ (Job 21:2) 2. The Prosperity of the Wicked Job challenges the common belief that the wicked always suffer, pointing out that many live prosperous and comfortable lives. This observation questions the simplistic view of retributive justice. ^“Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?”^ (Job 21:7) 3. The Peaceful Death of the Wicked Job notes that the wicked often die peacefully, without the suffering that might be expected as a consequence of their actions. This challenges the notion that earthly life always reflects divine justice. ^“They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace.”^ (Job 21:13) 4. The Rejection of God by the Wicked Despite their prosperity, the wicked often reject God, questioning His relevance and authority in their lives. This highlights the moral and spiritual blindness that can accompany material success. ^“Yet they say to God, ‘Leave us alone! For we have no desire to know Your ways.’”^ (Job 21:14) 5. The Question of Divine Justice Job questions the apparent delay or absence of divine justice, as the wicked seem to escape punishment. This reflects a deep theological inquiry into the nature of God's justice and timing. ^“How often is the lamp of the wicked put out? Does disaster come upon them?”^ (Job 21:17) 6. The Fate of the Wicked's Offspring Job considers whether the children of the wicked suffer for their parents' sins, touching on the generational impact of sin and the justice of God in dealing with families. ^“Let his own eyes see his destruction; let him drink for himself the wrath of the Almighty.”^ (Job 21:20) 7. The Mystery of God's Ways Job acknowledges the mystery of God's ways, recognizing that human understanding is limited. This humility before divine wisdom is a key aspect of faith. ^“Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since He judges those on high?”^ (Job 21:22) 8. The Inevitability of Death Job reflects on the inevitability of death for all people, regardless of their righteousness or wickedness. This underscores the transient nature of earthly life and the ultimate sovereignty of God. ^“One man dies full of vigor, completely secure and at ease.”^ (Job 21:23) 9. The Call for Honest Reflection Job concludes by urging his friends to honestly reflect on the realities of life and the fate of the wicked, challenging them to reconsider their assumptions about divine justice. ^“So how can you comfort me with empty words? For your answers remain falsehood.”^ (Job 21:34) Themes 1. The Prosperity of the Wicked Job questions why the wicked often live prosperous and carefree lives. He observes that they "spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace" (Job 21:13). The Hebrew word for "prosperity" here is "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), which implies completeness and well-being, highlighting the apparent contradiction between their moral state and their material success. 2. The Suffering of the Righteous Job contrasts the prosperity of the wicked with the suffering of the righteous, questioning the justice of God. He implies that the righteous often face hardship despite their faithfulness, challenging the retributive justice theology held by his friends. 3. The Sovereignty of God Job acknowledges God's ultimate control over the fate of both the wicked and the righteous. He states, "Who can teach God knowledge, since He judges those on high?" (Job 21:22). This theme underscores the belief in God's omniscience and omnipotence, even when His ways are inscrutable. 4. The Inevitability of Death Job reflects on the inevitability of death for all people, regardless of their moral standing. He notes that "they lie down alike in the dust, and worms cover them" (Job 21:26). The Hebrew word "עָפָר" (afar) for "dust" emphasizes the common destiny of humanity, returning to the earth from which they were formed. 5. The Futility of Human Wisdom Job criticizes the simplistic wisdom of his friends, who claim that suffering is always a result of sin. He challenges their understanding by pointing out the complexity of life and the inscrutability of God's ways, suggesting that human wisdom is limited and often misguided. 6. The Question of Divine Justice Throughout the chapter, Job grapples with the question of divine justice, questioning why the wicked are not immediately punished. He asks, "How often is the lamp of the wicked put out?" (Job 21:17), using the metaphor of a lamp to symbolize life and prosperity, and questioning the timing of divine retribution. 7. The Role of Human Observation Job emphasizes the importance of observing the world to understand the apparent prosperity of the wicked. He invites his friends to "look at those who travel the road" (Job 21:29), suggesting that empirical observation can challenge preconceived notions about divine justice and the moral order. Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God for wisdom to understand His ways and to trust in His justice, even when it is not immediately apparent. Pray for Patience Seek God's strength to remain patient and faithful during times of suffering or when witnessing the prosperity of the wicked. Pray for a Heart of Compassion Request a compassionate heart that refrains from judging others' circumstances and instead offers support and understanding. Pray for a Deeper Relationship with God Ask God to draw you closer to Him, focusing on spiritual growth rather than material success. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 21:7, how can the wicked seemingly live long and prosper if divine justice is supposed to hold them accountable? 2. In Job 21:13, what evidence exists (historically or archaeologically) that would suggest the rich die at ease without facing retribution? 3. In Job 21:19–21, does the idea of children suffering for a parent’s wrongdoing clash with other biblical teachings on individual responsibility? 4. In Job 21:22, how can humans teach God anything if He is described elsewhere as all-knowing and beyond counsel? 5. In Job 21:29–31, why does the community seem to uphold or admire the wicked instead of condemning them, and how does this align with other biblical portrayals of evildoers? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Job 21 challenge conventional wisdom about good and evil? 2. How does Job's perspective on the wicked's prosperity contrast with his friends' views? 3. What might Job's questioning teach us about the nature of faith and doubt? 4. How do you reconcile the prosperity of the wicked with the concept of divine justice? 5. How does Job's lament reflect his relationship with God? 6. What does this chapter reveal about human suffering and divine mystery? 7. How might you respond to someone today who, like Job's friends, equates prosperity with righteousness and suffering with wickedness? 8. In what ways do you relate to Job's feelings of frustration and despair? 9. How does Job 21 challenge or affirm your understanding of justice? 10. How can Job's debate with his friends guide us in providing comfort to those in distress? 11. What does this chapter teach about the limits of human understanding in comprehending God's ways? 12. In today's world, where do you see instances of the wicked prospering? 13. How does the notion of God's justice presented in Job 21 apply to your personal life? 14. Why do you think Job values direct punishment of the wicked over their children bearing the consequences? 15. How does Job's emphasis on God's inscrutable ways influence your perception of your own life challenges? 16. What insights does Job 21 provide for dealing with unhelpful counsel or false assumptions? 17. How do you deal with life's apparent injustices and contradictions in your faith journey? 18. How would you handle a situation where you, like Job, feel misunderstood or misjudged by friends? 19. How does Job's persistent questioning inspire you to approach difficult questions in your own life? 20. How can Job's experience help you empathize with and support those who are suffering around you? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions