Job 1:2
And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּוָּ֥לְדוּ
And there were born
H3205
וַיִּוָּ֥לְדוּ
And there were born
Strong's:
H3205
Word #:
1 of 6
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
שִׁבְעָ֥ה
unto him seven
H7651
שִׁבְעָ֥ה
unto him seven
Strong's:
H7651
Word #:
3 of 6
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
בָנִ֖ים
sons
H1121
בָנִ֖ים
sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 6
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Cross References
Job 42:13He had also seven sons and three daughters.Psalms 107:38He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.Psalms 128:3Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.Job 13:13Hold your peace, let me alone, that I may speak, and let come on me what will.Esther 5:11And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all the things wherein the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the princes and servants of the king.
Historical Context
Written during the patriarchal period (possibly 2000-1800 BC), this opening establishes Job as a historical figure whose integrity predated the Mosaic covenant. The family structure reflects ancient Near Eastern values where sons and daughters represented a man's legacy and divine blessing.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you measure God's blessing in your life - by external circumstances or internal character?
- What does it mean to be 'perfect and upright' in a fallen world?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Job's seven sons and three daughters represent divine completeness (seven) and stability (three), establishing his blessed estate before testing. This perfect family structure serves as the foundation for understanding the magnitude of Job's subsequent loss. The narrative establishes that Job's righteousness was demonstrated in his family stewardship, not merely personal piety.