Job 12:21
He poureth contempt upon princes, and weakeneth the strength of the mighty.
Original Language Analysis
שׁוֹפֵ֣ךְ
He poureth
H8210
שׁוֹפֵ֣ךְ
He poureth
Strong's:
H8210
Word #:
1 of 7
to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
נְדִיבִ֑ים
upon princes
H5081
נְדִיבִ֑ים
upon princes
Strong's:
H5081
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, voluntary, i.e., generous; hence, magnanimous; as noun, a grandee (sometimes a tyrant)
Historical Context
Ancient princes wielded absolute power within their domains. The imagery of God actively pouring contempt challenges ancient Near Eastern views of semi-divine kingship and anticipates prophetic judgments against prideful rulers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's humbling of the proud shape how we handle positions of influence?
- What current examples show God bringing down those who exalt themselves?
- How should the certainty of divine judgment affect our ambitions and pursuits?
Analysis & Commentary
God pours contempt on princes and loosens the belt of the strong. The verb 'shaphak' (pour) suggests abundant, overflowing contempt—not reluctant judgment but decisive humiliation of the proud. The loosened belt again signifies loss of authority and strength. Job's theology affirms God's active role in humbling the exalted, a theme that runs through Scripture from Hannah's prayer (1 Samuel 2) to Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1).