Job 21:11

They send forth their little ones like a flock; their children skip about,

Study Bible

They send forth
The Hebrew root for "send forth" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), which conveys the idea of releasing or letting go. In the context of Job, this phrase suggests a sense of freedom and carefreeness that the wicked afford their children. Historically, this reflects a time when children were seen as a blessing and a sign of prosperity. The imagery of sending forth implies a deliberate action, indicating that the wicked have the means and security to allow their children to roam freely, unburdened by the struggles that others might face.

their little ones
The term "little ones" comes from the Hebrew "עֹלֵל" (olel), which refers to young children or infants. This phrase emphasizes the innocence and vulnerability of youth. In the broader scriptural context, children are often seen as a heritage from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). The mention of "little ones" here highlights the contrast between the carefree lives of the wicked's children and the suffering of Job, who has lost his own children.

like a flock
The imagery of a "flock" is rich in biblical symbolism, often used to describe groups that are cared for and protected, such as sheep under a shepherd. The Hebrew word "עֵדֶר" (eder) suggests a sense of community and order. In this verse, it implies that the children of the wicked are numerous and move together in harmony, much like a well-tended flock. This contrasts with Job's current state of isolation and loss, underscoring the apparent injustice he perceives.

their children
The word "children" here is "בָּנִים" (banim) in Hebrew, which can mean sons or descendants. This term is significant in the biblical context, as children are seen as a continuation of one's legacy and a sign of divine favor. The mention of "their children" serves to highlight the prosperity and continuity of the wicked's lineage, which seems to thrive despite their moral failings.

skip about
The phrase "skip about" is derived from the Hebrew "רָקַד" (raqad), meaning to leap or dance. This conveys a sense of joy, vitality, and unrestrained happiness. In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, dancing was often associated with celebration and worship. The image of children skipping about paints a picture of exuberance and carefree living, which stands in stark contrast to Job's lament and the heavy burden of his suffering. This serves to deepen the tension in Job's discourse, as he grapples with the prosperity of the wicked in light of his own righteous suffering.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and patience who undergoes severe trials and suffering. In this chapter, Job is responding to his friends' arguments about the prosperity of the wicked.

2. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who argue that suffering is a result of sin and that prosperity is a sign of righteousness. Job challenges their simplistic understanding of God's justice.

3. The Wicked
In this context, Job refers to those who live in apparent prosperity and ease, despite their disregard for God. He observes that their children live carefree lives.

4. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel. It serves as the backdrop for Job's trials and dialogues.

5. God
The ultimate authority and sovereign over all events, whose justice and ways are being questioned and explored throughout the Book of Job.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Apparent Injustice
Job 21:11 challenges the simplistic view that prosperity is always a sign of God's favor. It reminds us that the wicked can appear to thrive, and their children may live carefree lives, but this is not the full account of God's justice.

The Importance of a Long-term Perspective
While the wicked may prosper temporarily, believers are called to trust in God's ultimate justice and eternal plan. Our focus should be on faithfulness rather than immediate outcomes.

The Role of Faith in Uncertainty
Job's observations encourage us to maintain faith even when circumstances seem unfair. Trusting in God's character and promises is crucial when we face life's complexities.

The Influence of Family and Community
The imagery of children skipping like a flock suggests the importance of nurturing a joyful and secure environment for the next generation, regardless of external circumstances.

The Call to Compassion and Understanding
Job's discourse invites us to approach others with empathy and avoid quick judgments about their spiritual state based on their material circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 21:11 challenge the notion that prosperity is always a sign of God's blessing? Reflect on your own experiences or observations.

2. In what ways can we maintain faith and trust in God's justice when we see the wicked prospering? Consider connections to Psalm 73 and Ecclesiastes 8:14.

3. How can we create a nurturing and joyful environment for our children and community, as suggested by the imagery of children skipping like a flock?

4. What lessons can we learn from Job's response to his friends about the complexity of God's justice and the reality of suffering?

5. How can we apply the teachings of Matthew 5:45 to our understanding of God's providence and our interactions with both the righteous and the unrighteous?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm reflects on the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous, similar to Job's observations. It ultimately concludes with a reaffirmation of God's justice and the eternal perspective.

Ecclesiastes 8:14
This verse discusses the apparent injustice in the world, where the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper, echoing Job's lament.

Matthew 5:45
Jesus teaches that God causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous, highlighting the complexity of divine providence.