Job 18:13
It shall devour the strength of his skin: even the firstborn of death shall devour his strength.
Original Language Analysis
בַּ֝דָּ֗יו
his strength
H905
בַּ֝דָּ֗יו
his strength
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
בַּ֝דָּ֗יו
his strength
H905
בַּ֝דָּ֗יו
his strength
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern thought often connected disease with divine displeasure. The 'firstborn of death' phrase is unique—possibly referring to most deadly diseases. Bildad's application of this imagery to Job's actual condition shows profound pastoral insensitivity.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we avoid assuming disease indicates divine displeasure or personal sin?
- What pastoral wisdom does Jesus demonstrate in John 9:3 when His disciples assume blindness indicates sin?
- How should Christians respond to illness—both in ourselves and others?
Analysis & Commentary
Disease consumes the wicked: 'It shall devour the strength of his skin: even the firstborn of death shall devour his strength.' The 'firstborn of death'—a vivid personification—suggests death's most powerful agent, perhaps disease. This describes Job's actual condition (skin disease). Bildad cruelly uses Job's symptoms as evidence for his theology. Yet disease afflicts righteous and wicked alike (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Suffering's presence doesn't indicate cause.