◄ Job 5 ►
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Eliphaz Continues: God Blesses those Who Seek Him 1“Call out if you please, but who will answer? To which of the holy ones will you turn? 2For resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple. 3I have seen a fool taking root, but suddenly his house was cursed. 4His sons are far from safety, crushed in court without a defender. 5The hungry consume his harvest, taking it even from the thorns, and the thirsty pant after his wealth.a 6For distress does not spring from the dust, and trouble does not sprout from the ground. 7Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward. 8However, if I were you, I would appeal to God and lay my cause before Him— 9the One who does great and unsearchable things, wonders without number. 10He gives rain to the earth and sends water upon the fields. 11He sets the lowly on high, so that mourners are lifted to safety. 12He thwarts the schemes of the crafty, so that their hands find no success. 13He catches the wise in their craftiness,b and sweeps away the plans of the cunning. 14They encounter darkness by day and grope at noon as in the night. 15He saves the needy from the sword in their mouth and from the clutches of the powerful. 16So the poor have hope, and injustice shuts its mouth. 17Blessed indeed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.c 18For He wounds, but He also binds; He strikes, but His hands also heal. 19He will rescue you from six calamities; no harm will touch you in seven. 20In famine He will redeem you from death, and in battle from the stroke of the sword. 21You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and will not fear havoc when it comes. 22You will laugh at destruction and famine, and need not fear the beasts of the earth. 23For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you. 24You will know that your tent is secure, and find nothing amiss when inspecting your home. 25You will know that your offspring will be many, your descendants like the grass of the earth. 26You will come to the grave in full vigor, like a sheaf of grain gathered in season. 27Indeed, we have investigated, and it is true! So hear it and know for yourself.” Footnotes: 5 a Or and a snare snatches his wealth 13 b Cited in 1 Corinthians 3:19 17 c Hebrew Shaddai; here and throughout Job 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 5 Summary Eliphaz: God Blesses those Who Seek Him Verses 1–7 – A Lonely Appeal, the Frailty of Man Eliphaz challenges Job to call on any heavenly being who might defend him, then asserts that resentment destroys fools and envy kills the simple. He observes that trouble does not spring from the soil; instead, humanity is born for hardship as surely as sparks fly upward. Verses 8–16 – Turning to the Almighty Who Lifts the Lowly Eliphaz urges Job to seek God, the One who performs wonders, sends rain on the earth, exalts the humble, and frustrates the crafty so “their hands achieve no success.” God saves the needy from the sword of the wicked and grants hope to the poor. Verses 17–27 – Discipline, Protection, and Restoration He proclaims the man whom God corrects is blessed; therefore Job should not despise discipline. God will rescue six, even seven times; famine, war, slander, and violence will not prevail. Fields, tents, offspring, and years will flourish, and death will come in ripe old age “like a sheaf gathered in season.” In Job 5, Eliphaz the Temanite continues his response to Job’s lamentations, encouraging him to turn to God in the midst of his suffering. Eliphaz argues that God uses affliction for discipline and purification, hinting that Job’s severe suffering might have been a result of his sin. The chapter presents a broader perspective on the theme of suffering and divine justice. Historical Setting: Job in the Era of the Patriarchs • Names, lifespans, and social customs in Job resemble Abraham’s time (Genesis 12–25). • Job offers sacrifices as priest of his household (Job 1:5), paralleling patriarchal practice before the Levitical system. • Wealth measured in livestock (Job 1:3) matches a second-millennium BC context. • The speech’s desert imagery—jackals, harvest, nomadic tents—fits North Arabian semi-arid terrain east of the Jordan. Literary Context: Eliphaz’s First Speech, Part Two Job 4–5 forms one continuous address. Chapter 4 stresses Job’s past piety and the night vision; chapter 5 applies those insights. Eliphaz speaks longest of the three friends and is often considered the most courteous, yet even here his counsel holds hidden barbs: “Resentment kills a fool” insinuates Job’s grief is folly. Themes and Theology 1. God’s Sovereignty over Creation – “He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed” (5:9). Compare Psalm 72:18; Romans 11:33. 2. Divine Intervention for the Humble – “He sets the lowly on high” (5:11). Echoed in Luke 1:52 and James 4:10. 3. The Purpose of Discipline – “Do not despise the discipline of the Almighty” (5:17). Hebrews 12:5-11 quotes and expands this principle. 4. Justice in the Long View – Eliphaz believes in retributive order: fools perish, the righteous prosper (5:3-5, 24-25). The book later tests this assumption. Key Hebrew Words and Imagery • qetser (“trouble,” v. 6) – distress, burden; linked to Psalm 34:19. • reshephim (“sparks,” v. 7) – literally “sons of flame,” conjuring sparks leaping skyward from a fire, a vivid picture of inevitable hardship. • paddah (“redeem,” v. 20) – deliverance language echoed in Exodus 6:6 and Isaiah 35:10. Archaeological and Cultural Background • Clay tablets from Mari (18th century BC) mention disputes settled at gates, fitting Eliphaz’s reference to the needy saved “from the clutches of the powerful” (5:15). • Mesopotamian laments often link sin and suffering; Job counters this worldview by questioning assumed cause-and-effect. Structural Notes and Outline A. Verses 1-7 – No earthly or heavenly advocate will answer; suffering is part of fallen life. B. Verses 8-16 – Seek God: Creator, rain-giver, rescuer of the oppressed. C. Verses 17-27 – Blessing within correction: six-plus-one deliverances, agricultural and familial prosperity, peaceful death. Cross-References and Echoes in Scripture • Job 5:3 ⟶ Psalm 37:35-36, the flourishing then sudden fall of the wicked. • Job 5:13 ⟶ 1 Corinthians 3:19, Paul cites this verse to show worldly wisdom collapsing before God. • Job 5:18 ⟶ Hosea 6:1, wound and heal motif. • Job 5:23 ⟶ Leviticus 26:6, covenant promise of peace with beasts of the field. • Job 5:26 ⟶ Genesis 25:8, Abraham “breathed his last…old and full of years.” Practical Application for Believers Today • Grief can distort perspective; friends may speak truth mixed with assumption—test every word by Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Discipline is a mark of God’s fatherly love. Acceptance requires humility and trust (Proverbs 3:11-12). • God’s care extends to physical needs—rain, crops, protection—as well as spiritual restoration (Matthew 6:25-33). • The chapter calls for compassion: Eliphaz’s theology is lofty, yet he fails to comfort Job’s heart. Truth must always travel with tenderness (Ephesians 4:15). Links to the New Testament • Hebrews 12 draws from Job 5:17 to frame hardship as fatherly discipline. • James 5:11 cites Job’s perseverance, inviting Christians to look beyond immediate pain to the Lord’s compassion and mercy foreshadowed here. • 1 Corinthians 3:19 quotes Job 5:13, asserting God’s wisdom overrules human schemes. Summary Insight Eliphaz’s counsel shines with truths about God’s power, providence, and the blessing of correction, yet it is incomplete. He assumes Job’s hardship must spring from personal sin, ignoring mystery. The chapter invites readers to embrace divine discipline without rushing to judge another’s pain, trusting the Almighty who “does great and unsearchable things, wonders without number.” (Job 5:9) Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 12:5-6 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: 'My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.' James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 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 The Call to Seek God Eliphaz encourages Job to seek God in his distress, suggesting that divine intervention is the ultimate solution to human suffering. But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before Him (Job 5:8). God's Discipline and Correction Eliphaz speaks of God's discipline as a form of correction, implying that suffering can be a tool for spiritual growth. Blessed indeed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty (Job 5:17). God's Sovereignty and Wisdom Eliphaz acknowledges God's supreme wisdom and power, emphasizing that His ways are beyond human understanding. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted (Job 5:9). The Promise of Restoration Eliphaz assures Job that God has the power to restore and bless those who endure suffering faithfully. He will deliver you from six calamities; no harm will touch you in seven (Job 5:19). Practical Applications Seek God in Times of Trouble When faced with trials, prioritize seeking God through prayer and scripture, trusting in His ability to provide guidance and comfort. Embrace Divine Discipline View challenges as opportunities for growth and refinement, understanding that God's discipline is an expression of His love. Trust in God's Sovereignty Rest in the knowledge that God's wisdom surpasses our understanding, and His plans are ultimately for our good. Hope in Restoration Maintain hope and faith in God's promise to restore and bless those who remain steadfast in their faith. People 1. Eliphaz the Temanite Eliphaz is one of Job's friends who attempts to counsel him during his suffering. In Job 5, Eliphaz continues his speech, offering advice and observations about God's justice and the fate of the wicked. He emphasizes the idea that God disciplines those He loves, suggesting that Job's suffering may be a form of divine correction. 2. God (Elohim) While not directly speaking in this chapter, God is a central figure in Eliphaz's discourse. Eliphaz speaks about God's power, justice, and the blessings He bestows on those who accept His correction. The Hebrew term "Elohim" is often used to refer to God, highlighting His majesty and authority. 3. The Fool (Kesil) Eliphaz refers to "the fool" in verse 2, using the Hebrew word "kesil," which denotes someone who is morally deficient or lacking wisdom. Eliphaz warns that resentment and envy lead to the destruction of the fool, implying that such attitudes are contrary to the wisdom and righteousness that God desires. 4. The Afflicted (Ani) In verse 15, Eliphaz mentions "the afflicted," using the Hebrew word "ani," which refers to those who are oppressed or suffering. He speaks of God's deliverance and protection for the afflicted, suggesting that God ultimately cares for and rescues those who are downtrodden. 5. The Needy (Ebyon) Also in verse 15, Eliphaz speaks of "the needy," using the Hebrew word "ebyon," which refers to those who are poor or in need. He highlights God's provision and salvation for the needy, reinforcing the idea that God is a defender of the vulnerable. Places In Job 5, there are no specific geographical places mentioned. The chapter is part of a speech by Eliphaz, one of Job's friends, and it primarily focuses on themes of human suffering, divine justice, and the power of God. Since there are no places listed in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. If you have any other questions or need further analysis of the text, feel free to ask! Events 1. Eliphaz's Call to Seek God Eliphaz advises Job to call out to God, suggesting that no one else can help him. He implies that seeking God is the only solution to Job's plight. This reflects the Hebrew root "קָרָא" (qara), meaning "to call" or "to cry out." 2. The Fool's Downfall Eliphaz describes the fate of the foolish, stating that he has seen fools taking root, but suddenly their house is cursed. This is a warning about the consequences of folly, rooted in the Hebrew word "אֱוִיל" (ewil), meaning "fool." 3. God's Discipline and Deliverance Eliphaz emphasizes that God disciplines those He loves, but also delivers them from trouble. This duality of discipline and deliverance is central to understanding God's character, as seen in the Hebrew "יָסַר" (yasar), meaning "to discipline" or "to instruct." 4. The Blessings of God's Correction Eliphaz lists the blessings that come from accepting God's correction, including protection from harm and peace. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning "peace" or "completeness." 5. God's Protection and Provision Eliphaz assures Job that God will protect him from various calamities, such as famine and war, and that Job will be in league with the stones of the field. This imagery highlights God's provision and protection, rooted in the Hebrew "שָׁמַר" (shamar), meaning "to guard" or "to keep." 6. Prosperity and Security Eliphaz concludes with a promise of prosperity and security for those who accept God's discipline, including a peaceful home and numerous descendants. This reflects the Hebrew "צָלַח" (tsalach), meaning "to prosper" or "to succeed." Lessons from Job 5 1. Embrace Divine Correction In Job 5:17, we read, "Behold, blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." Embrace God's correction as a sign of His love and care. Just as a loving parent disciplines a child, God’s correction is meant to guide us back to the right path. It’s an opportunity for growth and deeper faith. 2. Trust in God’s Deliverance Job 5:19 assures us, "He will rescue you from six calamities; no harm will touch you in seven." This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His power to deliver us from trials. Trust that God is your protector and that He will see you through every challenge, no matter how overwhelming it may seem. 3. Seek God’s Wisdom The wisdom of God is unmatched, and Job 5:13 tells us, "He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away." Seek God’s wisdom in all things, for human wisdom is limited and often flawed. God’s wisdom will guide you to make decisions that align with His will. 4. Find Peace in God’s Provision In Job 5:24, we find comfort: "You will know that your tent is secure, and find nothing amiss when inspecting your home." This verse encourages us to find peace in God’s provision. Trust that He will provide for your needs and that your home and family are under His watchful care. 5. Experience Joy in Restoration Job 5:18 reveals, "For He wounds, but He also binds; He strikes, but His hands also heal." God’s restoration is complete and brings joy. Even when we face wounds and trials, God’s healing is always at work, bringing us back to wholeness and joy in His presence. 6. Rely on God’s Protection The assurance of God’s protection is clear in Job 5:21, "You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and need not fear destruction when it comes." Rely on God’s protection against both physical and verbal attacks. He is your shield and defender, keeping you safe from harm. 7. Cultivate a Heart of Humility Job 5:11 states, "He sets the lowly on high, so that mourners are lifted to safety." Humility is a virtue that God honors. Cultivate a heart of humility, knowing that God lifts up the humble and provides safety and honor to those who trust in Him. 8. Recognize the Futility of Human Schemes In Job 5:12, we learn, "He thwarts the schemes of the crafty, so that their hands find no success." Recognize the futility of relying on human schemes and deceit. God’s plans are sovereign, and He will ensure that His purposes prevail over any human machinations. 9. Rejoice in God’s Abundance Job 5:22 encourages us, "You will laugh at destruction and famine, and need not fear the beasts of the earth." Rejoice in the abundance that God provides, even in times of scarcity. His provision is sufficient, and His joy is your strength in every circumstance. 10. Rest in God’s Peace Finally, Job 5:23 offers peace: "For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you." Rest in the peace that comes from a relationship with God. His covenant promises bring harmony and peace to every aspect of your life. These lessons from Job 5 remind us of the steadfast love and faithfulness of God. As we navigate life’s challenges, let us hold fast to these truths, trusting in God’s wisdom, protection, and provision. Topics 1. The Futility of Human Wisdom Eliphaz begins by questioning the value of human wisdom and counsel in the face of divine understanding. He implies that human efforts are ultimately futile without God's guidance. This reflects the Hebrew root "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), meaning wisdom, emphasizing the limitations of human insight compared to divine wisdom. 2. The Consequences of Folly Eliphaz describes the downfall of the foolish, stating, "Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple" (Job 5:2). The Hebrew word for fool, "אֱוִיל" (ewil), suggests moral and spiritual deficiency, highlighting the self-destructive nature of folly. 3. Divine Discipline and Correction Eliphaz speaks of God's discipline as a form of correction, saying, "Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty" (Job 5:17). The Hebrew term "מוּסָר" (musar) for discipline underscores the idea of instruction and correction for growth and improvement. 4. God's Deliverance and Protection Eliphaz assures Job of God's deliverance from various troubles, emphasizing divine protection and care. He states, "He will deliver you from six calamities; no harm will touch you in seven" (Job 5:19). The repetition of numbers signifies completeness and totality in God's protection. 5. The Restoration of Peace and Prosperity Eliphaz concludes with a promise of restoration, suggesting that those who submit to God's discipline will experience peace and prosperity. He mentions, "You will know that your tent is secure; you will take stock of your property and find nothing missing" (Job 5:24). The Hebrew word "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom) for peace conveys a sense of wholeness and well-being. Themes 1. Divine Discipline and Correction Job 5 emphasizes the theme of God's discipline as a form of correction. Eliphaz suggests that suffering can be a tool used by God to instruct and improve individuals. In Job 5:17, it states, "Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." The Hebrew word for "corrects" (יָסַר, yasar) implies instruction and chastening, indicating a purposeful and loving correction from God. 2. Human Frailty and Mortality The chapter highlights the frailty and transient nature of human life. In Job 5:7, it says, "Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward." This reflects the Hebrew understanding of human existence as inherently linked to suffering and challenges, emphasizing the need for reliance on God. 3. God's Sovereignty and Justice Eliphaz speaks of God's sovereign control over the world and His just nature. In Job 5:8-9, it reads, "But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before Him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted." The Hebrew root for "wonders" (פָּלָא, pala) suggests acts that are extraordinary and beyond human understanding, underscoring God's supreme authority and justice. 4. Divine Protection and Deliverance The theme of God's protection and deliverance is evident as Eliphaz assures Job of God's ability to save and protect the righteous. Job 5:19 states, "He will rescue you from six calamities; no harm will touch you in seven." The use of numbers here is symbolic in Hebrew literature, indicating completeness and total protection. 5. The Futility of Human Wisdom Eliphaz contrasts human wisdom with divine wisdom, suggesting that human understanding is limited and often futile. In Job 5:13, it says, "He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away." The Hebrew word for "craftiness" (עָרְמָה, ormah) implies cunning or shrewdness, which is ultimately ineffective against God's wisdom. 6. Restoration and Hope The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration for those who endure suffering. In Job 5:18, it states, "For He wounds, but He also binds; He strikes, but His hands also heal." The duality of wounding and healing reflects the Hebrew understanding of God's role as both a disciplinarian and a healer, offering hope for restoration. Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God for wisdom to understand His purposes in your trials and to respond with faith and obedience. Pray for Strength Seek God's strength to endure suffering with patience and hope, trusting in His promise of restoration. Pray for a Teachable Spirit Request a heart that is open to God's discipline, willing to learn and grow through life's challenges. Pray for Others in Suffering Intercede for those who are experiencing hardship, that they may find comfort and hope in God's presence and promises. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 5:3, how could a fool suddenly flourish only to be cursed, and does this reflect any historical or archeological anomaly? 2. In Job 5:6–7, how can the statement that affliction does not arise from the ground align with modern scientific understanding of natural disasters? 3. In Job 5:9, does the claim of God performing countless marvels conflict with documented miracles (or lack thereof) in other biblical texts? 4. In Job 5:10, how does asserting divine control over rain and crops stand against established meteorological science? 5. In Job 5:17, why is suffering portrayed as proof of divine discipline, and does this contradict other scriptures where suffering occurs without such a cause? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Eliphaz's perspective on suffering in Job 5 differ from your own perspective on suffering? 2. How can Eliphaz's counsel be seen as both comforting and confrontational? 3. What does this chapter suggest about the relationship between divine justice and human suffering? 4. In what ways does Eliphaz's speech reflect the broader themes of the Book of Job? 5. How does Eliphaz characterize God in this chapter? 6. What is the significance of Eliphaz's assertion that "man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward"? 7. How does Eliphaz use the concept of divine reproof or discipline in his argument? 8. Reflect on a time you experienced suffering. How did you perceive God's role in your situation? 9. Eliphaz emphasizes the importance of seeking God in times of trouble. How can this be applied to modern day living? 10. How does the concept of divine justice in Job 5 relate to contemporary ideas about justice? 11. What does the concept of 'God's chastening' mean to you in a personal context? 12. How does Eliphaz's perspective on suffering and divine justice influence your understanding of the problem of evil? 13. Can suffering be seen as a blessing according to Job 5? If so, in what ways? 14. How can Eliphaz's assurance of divine protection and blessing be comforting in times of crisis? 15. How can you apply the lessons from Job 5 to your interactions with people going through difficult times? 16. In what ways does Eliphaz's perspective challenge or support your understanding of God's providence? 17. How can the insights from Job 5 be used to foster hope and resilience in contemporary society? 18. How would you respond to someone who shares Eliphaz's perspective on suffering? 19. How does the conversation between Eliphaz and Job inform your understanding of faithful discourse in times of suffering? 20. In the context of Job 5, how do you interpret the phrase, "Blessed is the one whom God corrects"? How would you apply this in your life today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions