Job 2:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 2:5
5 But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.
Chapter Context
Job 2 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, fellowship, discipleship. 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 2:5
5 But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.
Analysis
Satan requests permission to touch Job's 'bone and flesh'—his physical person—predicting this will cause Job to curse God directly ('to thy face'). The Hebrew 'nega'' (touch) is the same word used for plague or affliction, suggesting painful physical disease. Satan assumes that bodily suffering penetrates deeper than economic loss, revealing his belief that humans are fundamentally materialistic. Yet God's grant of permission demonstrates His confidence that true faith endures even physical torment.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, physical disease was often interpreted as divine judgment and resulted in social ostracization. Satan's request thus encompasses not just pain but complete social alienation.
Reflection
- How does your faith respond when physical suffering is added to circumstantial trials?
- What does God's permission for Job's physical affliction teach us about the purposes of bodily suffering?
Cross-References
- Curse: Job 1:5, 1:11, Leviticus 24:15