Job 5:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 5:19
19 He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.
Chapter Context
Job 5 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 5:19
19 He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.
Analysis
Eliphaz promises: 'He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.' The numbers six and seven represent completeness—God delivers from all troubles. This is true theology (Psalm 34:19), but Eliphaz misapplies it as promise of immediate relief if Job repents. Reformed theology affirms that God does deliver His people, but often through suffering rather than from it (2 Corinthians 1:9-10), and that final deliverance comes at glorification, not necessarily in this life.
Historical Context
The six/seven pattern appears throughout ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature as a merism representing totality. Eliphaz uses this to promise comprehensive deliverance contingent on Job's repentance from supposed sin.
Reflection
- How do you understand God's promise to deliver when deliverance is delayed or different than expected?
- What does it mean that God delivers His people through suffering rather than always from suffering?
Cross-References
- Evil: Proverbs 24:16
- Parallel theme: Psalms 34:19, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Corinthians 1:8, 2 Peter 2:9