Job 5:13
He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
This verse comes from Eliphaz's first speech to Job (Job 4-5), delivered circa 2000-1800 BC during the patriarchal period. Eliphaz, one of Job's three friends, begins sympathetically but soon argues that suffering always results from sin—a theology of strict retribution. While his principle about God overthrowing the schemes of the crafty is biblically sound (supported elsewhere in Scripture), his application to Job's situation is incorrect. The book challenges simplistic cause-and-effect theology while affirming God's ultimate justice. Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature similarly discussed the fate of the wicked, but Job uniquely addresses the problem of righteous suffering. This verse's quotation by Paul demonstrates its continuing relevance: God regularly frustrates human wisdom that opposes His purposes, from Babel to the Cross.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's ability to catch the wise in their own craftiness demonstrate His superior wisdom and sovereignty?
- What is the difference between godly wisdom and the cunning craftiness condemned in this verse?
- Why does Paul quote this verse in 1 Corinthians 3:19, and how does he apply it?
- Though this principle is true, why was Eliphaz wrong to apply it directly to Job's suffering?
- What historical or biblical examples illustrate God catching the crafty in their own schemes?
Analysis & Commentary
Divine Reversal of Human Wisdom: The Hebrew "taketh" (lakad) means "to capture," "ensnare," or "seize," suggesting God uses the wise person's own schemes as a trap that springs shut on them. "Craftiness" (ormah) refers to shrewd cunning, cleverness, or subtlety, often with negative connotations of manipulation and deceptive scheming. This is the same word used of the serpent in Genesis 3:1, indicating cunning employed for evil purposes rather than godly wisdom.
Speed of Divine Justice: The phrase "carried headlong" (nimhar) means "hastened," "brought to a swift end," or "rushed forward," emphasizing how quickly God can dismantle even the most elaborate, carefully constructed schemes. The "froward" (nipthalim) refers to those who are twisted, perverted, or crooked in their dealings and counsel. Eliphaz quotes this principle to argue that the wicked receive swift justice, though Job's case demonstrates that suffering isn't always direct punishment for personal sin. Notably, Paul quotes this verse in 1 Corinthians 3:19, applying it to worldly wisdom versus God's wisdom, showing its enduring theological significance across both testaments and demonstrating how God regularly frustrates human schemes that oppose His purposes.