Job 21:12
They take the timbrel and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ.
Original Language Analysis
יִ֭שְׂאוּ
They take
H5375
יִ֭שְׂאוּ
They take
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
1 of 6
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures used music for celebration and worship. Timbrels, harps, and pipes were common instruments for festivities. Job's point: the wicked aren't constantly miserable as his friends claimed—they genuinely enjoy life, at least temporarily.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we reconcile the wicked's genuine happiness with doctrine of divine justice?
- What is the difference between temporal enjoyment and eternal blessing?
- How does understanding deferred judgment help us make sense of present injustice?
Analysis & Commentary
The wicked enjoy music: 'They take the timbrel and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ.' Musical instruments (timbrel/tambourine, harp, organ/pipe) represent joy and celebration. The wicked experience genuine happiness, not constant dread his friends claimed. Job's observation challenges theodicy that assumes all joy indicates righteousness. The wicked DO enjoy temporal pleasures—judgment is often deferred, not immediate.