Job 1:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 1:20
20 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,
Chapter Context
Job 1 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, creation, faith. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 1:20
20 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,
Analysis
Job's response demonstrates genuine, persevering faith. The tearing of his mantle and shaving his head represent proper covenant mourning, not sinful despair. The Hebrew 'shachah' (worshipped) is crucial—in his deepest agony, Job's first response is worship. This vindicates God's assessment (verse 8) and refutes Satan's accusation (verse 11). True faith, wrought by the Spirit, worships God even in incomprehensible suffering, seeing His hand rather than blind fate.
Historical Context
Rending garments and shaving the head were standard Ancient Near Eastern mourning practices, indicating deep grief. Job's prostration in worship shows that even in following cultural mourning customs, his heart remained oriented toward God.
Reflection
- Is worship your first response to devastating news, or must you work your way toward it?
- What does Job's physical posture teach us about the embodied nature of genuine worship?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 37:29, 37:34, Deuteronomy 9:18, Ezra 9:3, 1 Peter 5:6