Job 12:17
He leadeth counsellors away spoiled, and maketh the judges fools.
Original Language Analysis
מוֹלִ֣יךְ
H1980
מוֹלִ֣יךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
1 of 5
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
יוֹעֲצִ֣ים
counsellors
H3289
יוֹעֲצִ֣ים
counsellors
Strong's:
H3289
Word #:
2 of 5
to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve
שׁוֹלָ֑ל
away spoiled
H7758
שׁוֹלָ֑ל
away spoiled
Strong's:
H7758
Word #:
3 of 5
nude (especially bare-foot); by implication, captive
Cross References
Isaiah 29:14Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.2 Samuel 17:23And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.
Historical Context
Counselors and judges held positions of highest authority in ancient societies. Job's point—drawn from observed history—is that God regularly humbles the mighty, as seen in Babylon's conquest of Judah and other historical reversals of fortune.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's sovereignty over human authorities shape our response to earthly powers?
- When have you seen God humble those who seemed invincible in their wisdom or authority?
- What does this teach about the temporary nature of human wisdom apart from God?
Analysis & Commentary
God leads counselors stripped of wisdom and makes judges fools. The imagery of 'counselors' led away 'spoiled' (or 'barefoot,' signifying captivity) demonstrates God's sovereignty over human institutions. He can overthrow the wise and powerful, exposing their foolishness. This Reformed emphasis on God's meticulous providence shows that no human authority operates independently of divine control.