Job 18:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 18:21
21 Surely such are the dwellings of the wicked, and this is the place of him that knoweth not God.
Chapter Context
Job 18 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, grace, obedience. 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 21-21: 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 18:21
21 Surely such are the dwellings of the wicked, and this is the place of him that knoweth not God.
Analysis
'Surely such are the dwellings of the wicked, and this is the place of him that knoweth not God.' Bildad concludes: 'such are dwellings' (אֵלֶּה מִשְׁכְּנוֹת, eleh mishkenot) of 'the wicked' (עַוָּל, avval), 'the place' (מְקוֹם, meqom) of him 'that knoweth not God' (לֹא־יָדַע אֵל, lo-yada El). 'Knowing God' (יָדַע, yada) implies relational intimacy, not mere intellectual awareness. Bildad equates Job's calamity with not knowing God relationally. This is the ultimate slander—claiming Job lacks saving relationship with God. Yet God Himself calls Job righteous (1:8, 2:3). Bildad's error: inferring spiritual state from circumstances. The Reformed doctrine of assurance warns against founding confidence on providential circumstances rather than Christ's work and the Spirit's witness (Romans 8:16).
Historical Context
Knowing God relationally was central to covenant theology. Bildad's accusation that Job doesn't know God would have been the ultimate condemnation, suggesting Job stands outside the covenant entirely.
Reflection
- On what basis should we assess someone's relationship with God?
- How do we avoid inferring spiritual state from external circumstances?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: 1 Thessalonians 4:5, 2 Thessalonians 1:8, Titus 1:16
- Evil: Jeremiah 9:3
- Parallel theme: Judges 2:10, Jeremiah 10:25