Job 31:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 31:1
1 I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Chapter Context
Job 31 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, covenant, creation. 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 21-40: 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 31:1
1 I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Analysis
Job declares: 'I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?' The phrase karati verit le-eynay (כָּרַתִּי בְרִית לְעֵינָי, I made a covenant with mine eyes) uses covenantal language for personal discipline. The verb hitbonen (הִתְבּוֹנֵן, think upon) means to consider or gaze at with desire. Betulah (בְּתוּלָה, maid) refers to a virgin or young woman. Job's covenant with his eyes addresses lustful thoughts, anticipating Jesus's teaching about adultery of the heart (Matthew 5:28). The verse models proactive holiness—Job didn't merely avoid external adultery but guarded his thought life.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern law codes primarily addressed external actions. Job's concern with internal purity (thoughts and desires) reflects the biblical emphasis on heart holiness. This oath begins chapter 31's extended defense where Job invokes curses upon himself if guilty of various sins. The covenant with his eyes demonstrates that genuine righteousness addresses not just behavior but desire.
Reflection
- How does Job's covenant with his eyes challenge us to guard not just actions but thoughts and desires?
- What does Job's proactive holiness teach about cultivating purity rather than merely avoiding external sin?
Word Studies
- Covenant: בְּרִית (Berit) H1285 - Covenant, treaty
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 6:2, Psalms 119:37, Proverbs 4:25, 6:25, 1 John 2:16