Job 6:21
For now ye are nothing; ye see my casting down, and are afraid.
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
עַ֭תָּה
H6258
הֱיִ֣יתֶם
H1961
הֱיִ֣יתֶם
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
3 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
לֹ֑א
H3808
לֹ֑א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
In retribution theology, others' suffering threatened one's own sense of security unless the sufferer could be shown to deserve their fate. Job identifies his friends' fear as motivating their accusations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does fear motivate you to explain away others' suffering as deserved?
- What does Job's diagnosis of his friends' fear teach us about the psychological roots of bad theology?
Analysis & Commentary
Job applies the metaphor: 'For now ye are nothing; ye see my casting down, and are afraid.' The friends are 'nothing' (Hebrew 'lo'—not/nothing), just like the dried-up stream. They see Job's calamity and fear it could happen to them, so they distance themselves by blaming Job. The Hebrew 'yare'' (afraid) reveals self-protective motive—if Job's suffering results from his sin, then their own prosperity proves their righteousness and safety. This exposes how fear drives false theology.