Job 2:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 2:7
7 So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.
Chapter Context
Job 2 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, hope, salvation. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 2:7
7 So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.
Analysis
Satan's immediate action ('went forth from the presence of the Lord and smote Job') shows his eagerness to execute his accusation. The 'sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown' indicates comprehensive, excruciating bodily affliction covering Job's entire body. The Hebrew 'shechin ra'' (evil boils/inflammation) suggests a painful, disfiguring condition. This physical suffering isolates Job socially while causing constant agony, testing whether his worship depends on comfort or conviction.
Historical Context
Skin diseases in the ancient Near East resulted in ceremonial uncleanness and social quarantine. Job's affliction would exclude him from community worship and human fellowship, compounding his suffering with isolation.
Reflection
- How do you maintain worship when physical pain makes concentration difficult?
- What does Job's comprehensive physical affliction teach us about God's purposes in allowing bodily suffering?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 28:27, 28:35
- Parallel theme: Job 30:30, Isaiah 1:6