Job 21:30
That the wicked is reserved to the day of destruction? they shall be brought forth to the day of wrath.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
לְי֖וֹם
to the day
H3117
לְי֖וֹם
to the day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
2 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
יֵחָ֣שֶׂךְ
is reserved
H2820
יֵחָ֣שֶׂךְ
is reserved
Strong's:
H2820
Word #:
4 of 8
to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe
Cross References
Proverbs 16:4The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.Job 20:28The increase of his house shall depart, and his goods shall flow away in the day of his wrath.2 Peter 3:7But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.Romans 2:5But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
Historical Context
Developing eschatological consciousness in Old Testament thought included understanding of delayed judgment. Job grasps that immediate temporal prosperity doesn't indicate final verdict. Later prophetic and apocalyptic literature develops this extensively.
Questions for Reflection
- How does eschatological judgment resolve the problem of delayed temporal justice?
- What role does faith play in trusting future judgment when present observation shows injustice?
- How should confidence in final judgment affect our pursuit of temporal justice?
Analysis & Commentary
The wicked are spared in judgment: 'That the wicked is reserved to the day of destruction? they shall be brought forth to the day of wrath.' Job's question expects affirmation—travelers confirm that the wicked aren't immediately judged but 'reserved' for future judgment day. This introduces eschatological perspective. Divine justice is certain but not always immediate. The wicked face ultimate judgment even if they escape temporal consequences.