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Job 11

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Job 11

1 Then answered Zophar the Naamathite, and said,

2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?

3 Should thy lies make men hold their peace? and when thou mockest, shall no man make thee ashamed?

4 For thou hast said, My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.

5 But oh that God would speak, and open his lips against thee;

6 And that he would shew thee the secrets of wisdom, that they are double to that which is! Know therefore that God exacteth of thee less than thine iniquity deserveth.

7 Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?

8 It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know?

9 The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea.

10 If he cut off, and shut up, or gather together, then who can hinder him?



11 For he knoweth vain men: he seeth wickedness also; will he not then consider it?

12 For vain men would be wise, though man be born like a wild ass's colt.

13 If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him;

14 If iniquity be in thine hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles.

15 For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear:

16 Because thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that pass away:

17 And thine age shall be clearer than the noonday: thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning.

18 And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest in safety.

19 Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid; yea, many shall make suit unto thee.

20 But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, and they shall not escape, and their hope shall be as the giving up of the ghost.

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Summary and the Meaning of Chapter 11 of the Book of Job

The book of Job is one of the most well-known and debated books in the Bible. It tells the story of a man named Job who faces immense suffering and loss, yet remains faithful to God. Chapter 11 of the book of Job is a continuation of the dialogue between Job and his three friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. In this chapter, Zophar speaks out against Job, accusing him of being arrogant and implying that his suffering is a result of his own sin. The main themes of this chapter include the nature of suffering, the character of God, and the importance of humility.

The Nature of Suffering

Throughout the book of Job, the question of why good people suffer is a central theme. Job, who was once a wealthy and respected man, has lost everything – his children, his possessions, and his health. His friends, who initially came to comfort him, begin to question why Job is suffering so greatly. In chapter 11, Zophar suggests that Job’s suffering is a result of his own sin. He says, “Should not the multitude of words be answered? And should a man full of talk be justified? Should thy lies make men hold their peace? And when thou mockest, shall no man make thee ashamed?” (Job 11:2-3). Zophar believes that Job’s suffering is a punishment from God for his sins, and he urges Job to repent and seek forgiveness.

This idea of suffering as punishment for sin was a common belief in the ancient world. However, the book of Job challenges this notion and raises the question of whether suffering is always a result of sin. Job maintains his innocence throughout the book and refuses to accept the idea that he is being punished by God. This chapter highlights the complexity of suffering and the need for a deeper understanding of its purpose.

The Character of God

Another important theme in chapter 11 is the character of God. Zophar’s speech is filled with descriptions of God’s greatness and power. He says, “Canst thou by searching find out God? Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? Deeper than hell; what canst thou know?” (Job 11:7-8). Zophar’s words reflect a common belief in the ancient world that God is distant and unknowable. He is portrayed as a powerful and fearsome God who cannot be fully understood by humans.

However, Zophar also suggests that God is just and will reward the righteous and punish the wicked. He says, “If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him; if iniquity be in thine hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles. For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be steadfast, and shalt not fear” (Job 11:13-15). Zophar believes that if Job repents and turns back to God, he will be restored and his suffering will end.

However, Zophar’s understanding of God is limited and one-dimensional. He fails to see the depth and complexity of God’s character. Later in the book, God rebukes Job’s friends for their simplistic and misguided views of Him. He says, “My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath” (Job 42:7). This chapter reminds us that God is not just a distant and fearsome deity, but a loving and compassionate Father who cares deeply for His children.

The Importance of Humility

One of the key lessons in chapter 11 is the importance of humility. Zophar accuses Job of being arrogant and prideful, saying, “For thou hast said, My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in thine eyes” (Job 11:4). Zophar believes that Job’s refusal to admit his sin and repent is a sign of his pride and self-righteousness. He urges Job to humble himself before God and acknowledge his faults.

However, Zophar’s words also reveal his own pride and lack of humility. He is quick to judge and condemn Job, and he fails to see his own faults. This chapter highlights the danger of pride and the importance of humbling ourselves before God. In the end, it is Job’s humility and faithfulness that is rewarded by God, not the self-righteousness of his friends.

The Meaning of Chapter 11

Chapter 11 of the book of Job is a crucial part of the overall message of the book. It challenges our understanding of suffering, reminds us of the complexity of God’s character, and emphasizes the importance of humility. This chapter also foreshadows the ultimate resolution of the book, in which God reveals Himself to Job and restores him. The message of the book of Job is that even in the midst of suffering, we must trust in God and maintain our faith. In the end, God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His plan is ultimately for our good.

Furthermore, this chapter also serves as a warning against pride and self-righteousness. Zophar’s words reveal the danger of judging others and thinking that we have all the answers. It is a reminder to approach others with humility and grace, rather than condemnation and judgment.

The book of Job is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges our understanding of suffering and the character of God. Chapter 11 is a crucial part of this book, as it raises important questions and sets the stage for the ultimate resolution of Job’s story. It reminds us to trust in God, humbly seek His wisdom, and avoid the trap of pride and self-righteousness. Ultimately, the book of Job teaches us that even in the midst of suffering, God is with us, and His plans for us are greater than we can imagine.



This article is informed by the King James Version of the Holy Bible, the authors' personal knowledge, considerations and experience, and additional materials and resources available in internet.

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