Job 5:2
For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
וּ֝פֹתֶ֗ה
the silly one
H6601
וּ֝פֹתֶ֗ה
the silly one
Strong's:
H6601
Word #:
5 of 7
to open, i.e., be (causatively, make) roomy; usually figuratively (in a mental or moral sense) to be (causatively, make) simple or (in a sinister way)
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 7:9Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.Job 18:4He teareth himself in his anger: shall the earth be forsaken for thee? and shall the rock be removed out of his place?Proverbs 12:16A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.
Historical Context
Wisdom literature frequently warned against destructive emotions, teaching self-control as a mark of the wise. Eliphaz misapplies this teaching to condemn Job's honest expression of grief and confusion.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you distinguish between righteous anger and sinful wrath in your response to suffering?
- In what ways does modern Christianity sometimes practice the same victim-blaming that Eliphaz demonstrates?
Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz warns, 'For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.' The Hebrew 'ka'as' (wrath/vexation) and 'qin'ah' (envy/jealousy) describe self-destructive emotions. Eliphaz implies Job's angry response to suffering proves his foolishness and will lead to his death. This is victim-blaming—telling the sufferer that his emotional response to injustice is the real problem. Scripture affirms that righteous anger exists (Ephesians 4:26) and lament is legitimate (Psalms).