Job 1:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 1:6
6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.
Chapter Context
Job 1 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, redemption. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 1:6
6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.
Analysis
The Hebrew phrase 'sons of God' (bene elohim) refers to angelic beings presenting themselves before God's throne, establishing the cosmic courtroom scene. Satan ('the adversary' in Hebrew) appears among them not as an equal but as one subject to God's sovereign authority. This scene reveals that earthly suffering has heavenly dimensions.
Historical Context
The divine council motif appears throughout ancient Near Eastern literature, but only in Scripture is God depicted as absolutely sovereign over all spiritual beings. This prefigures Christ's authority over all powers and principalities (Colossians 2:15).
Reflection
- What comfort can you find in knowing that Satan must ask God's permission to test believers?
- How does the heavenly courtroom scene change your perspective on earthly trials?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Job 2:1, 38:7, Genesis 6:4, Luke 3:38
- References Lord: 1 Kings 22:19, Psalms 103:20, Zechariah 3:1
- Parallel theme: 1 Chronicles 21:1, Matthew 18:10, John 6:70