Job 4:20
They are destroyed from morning to evening: they perish for ever without any regarding it.
Original Language Analysis
מִבֹּ֣קֶר
from morning
H1242
מִבֹּ֣קֶר
from morning
Strong's:
H1242
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
מִבְּלִ֥י
H1097
מִבְּלִ֥י
Strong's:
H1097
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, failure, i.e., nothing or destruction; usually (with preposition) without, not yet, because not, as long as, etc
מֵ֝שִׂ֗ים
without any regarding
H7760
מֵ֝שִׂ֗ים
without any regarding
Strong's:
H7760
Word #:
5 of 7
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
Historical Context
The fate of the wicked—dying unmourned and unnoticed—was considered the ultimate curse in ancient Near Eastern culture, where being remembered was highly valued. Eliphaz's vision predicts this fate for all humans, implying Job's suffering is justified.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the gospel truth that God numbers the hairs on our heads refute Eliphaz's vision?
- What comfort do you find in knowing God regards every aspect of your life and suffering?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz declares, 'They are destroyed from morning to evening: they perish for ever without any regarding it.' The Hebrew 'kathath' (destroyed/beaten down) and 'abad' (perish) emphasize complete destruction. 'Without any regarding it' suggests people die unnoticed and unmourned. Eliphaz implies Job is experiencing this—suffering divine destruction that proves his hidden wickedness. This denies God's attentiveness to His people (Matthew 10:29-31) and misunderstands the purpose of suffering.