Job 12:5
He that is ready to slip with his feet is as a lamp despised in the thought of him that is at ease.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
In ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions, prosperity was considered evidence of divine favor and wisdom. Job here challenges this assumption, pointing out how the comfortable develop contempt for sufferers, using theology to justify their disdain.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways do prosperity and comfort tempt us toward contempt for those who suffer?
- How does our own security bias our theological judgments about others' circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
Job responds to Zophar's harsh accusations with biting irony: 'He that is ready to slip with his feet is as a lamp despised in the thought of him that is at ease.' The Hebrew לַפִּיד (lappid, 'lamp/torch') refers to something meant to give light but here treated with contempt (בּוּז, buz). Job identifies the cruel dynamic: those 'at ease' (שַׁאֲנָן, sha'anan—secure, careless) despise those who suffer, viewing calamity as proof of moral failure. This exposes the self-righteousness of prosperity—the comfortable assume their ease reflects virtue and others' suffering proves guilt. James 2:6 warns against this very prejudice. The Reformed doctrine of common grace reminds us that earthly prosperity never proves spiritual status.