Job 24:11

They crush olives within their walls; they tread the winepresses, but go thirsty.

Study Bible

They crush olives within their walls;
In ancient times, olive oil was a staple in the diet and economy of the Near East, used for cooking, lighting, and religious rituals. The process of crushing olives to extract oil was labor-intensive and typically done within the confines of a community or estate, often in a communal press. This phrase highlights the labor of the oppressed, who work hard to produce valuable goods. The imagery of crushing olives within walls suggests a sense of confinement and exploitation, as the workers are enclosed and controlled by those in power. This reflects the broader theme in Job of the righteous suffering while the wicked prosper, as seen in Job 21:7-13, where the wicked live in ease and abundance.

they tread the winepresses,
Treading the winepress was another laborious task, involving the crushing of grapes to produce wine, a significant product in biblical times for both daily consumption and religious ceremonies. The act of treading the winepress is often associated with joy and celebration, as seen in Isaiah 16:10, where the absence of treading signifies desolation. However, in this context, it underscores the irony and injustice faced by the laborers who perform this joyful task yet do not partake in its fruits. The winepress is also a symbol of judgment in scripture, as in Revelation 14:19-20, where it represents God's wrath being poured out.

but go thirsty.
This phrase poignantly captures the injustice and irony of the situation. Despite their hard work in producing oil and wine, the laborers themselves are deprived of the basic necessities of life, such as water. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the righteous suffering unjustly, a central issue in the Book of Job. The thirst of the laborers can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual longing and deprivation, echoing the cries of the psalmist in Psalm 42:2, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God." This thirst contrasts with the abundance enjoyed by the wicked, highlighting the moral and spiritual inversion that Job laments throughout the book.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and patience who endures immense suffering and questions the justice of God.

2. The Oppressed Workers
The individuals described in this verse who labor intensively but do not benefit from their work, symbolizing the broader theme of injustice.

3. Olive Presses and Winepresses
These are places of labor where olives and grapes are processed, representing the agricultural economy of the time and the hard work of the laborers.

4. The Landowners/Employers
Implied figures who benefit from the labor of the workers but do not provide for their needs, highlighting the social injustice present in the account.

5. The Setting of Job
The land of Uz, a place of ancient wisdom and suffering, where Job's account unfolds, providing a backdrop for discussions on justice and righteousness.

Teaching Points

Injustice in Labor
The verse highlights the reality of economic injustice, where workers do not receive the fruits of their labor. Christians are called to advocate for fair treatment and justice in the workplace.

Empathy and Compassion
Believers should cultivate empathy for those who suffer from injustice and take action to support and uplift them, reflecting Christ's love and compassion.

God's Awareness and Justice
Although injustice may seem to prevail, God is aware of the suffering of the oppressed and will ultimately bring justice. This assurance should encourage believers to trust in God's timing and righteousness.

Stewardship and Responsibility
Those in positions of authority or ownership should exercise their power responsibly, ensuring that they treat their workers fairly and provide for their needs.

The Role of the Church
The church should be a voice for the voiceless, advocating for social justice and supporting initiatives that promote fair labor practices and economic equality.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 24:11 reflect the broader theme of injustice in the Book of Job, and what can we learn from Job's response to suffering?

2. In what ways can Christians today advocate for fair treatment of workers, both locally and globally?

3. How do the teachings in Deuteronomy 24:14-15 and James 5:4 reinforce the message of Job 24:11 regarding the treatment of laborers?

4. What role should the church play in addressing economic injustice, and how can individual believers contribute to this mission?

5. How can we find comfort and hope in God's ultimate justice when faced with the reality of ongoing injustice in the world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 24:14-15
This passage commands fair treatment of workers, emphasizing the importance of paying laborers promptly and justly, which contrasts with the injustice described in Job 24:11.

James 5:4
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of injustice against workers, warning of the cries of the unpaid laborers reaching the ears of the Lord, similar to the plight of the workers in Job.

Isaiah 5:7
This verse uses the imagery of a vineyard to describe God's expectation of justice and righteousness, contrasting with the exploitation seen in Job 24:11.