Job 15:31 - Let him not trust in emptiness, deceiving himself; for emptiness shall be his reward.
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What does "Job 15:31" mean?
Job 15:31 is part of Eliphaz's second speech to Job. He's accusing Job of wickedness, even though Job is suffering immensely and maintains his innocence. The verse in question speaks to the consequences of trusting in something false or worthless:
"Let him not trust in emptiness, deceiving himself..." - This part warns against relying on something that has no substance or true value. This "emptiness" can be interpreted in several ways, depending on the theological perspective:
False security/pride: Eliphaz likely believes Job is relying on his supposed righteousness or innocence, which Eliphaz deems a false security because he believes Job is secretly wicked.
Material wealth: It could refer to placing trust in material possessions, power, or worldly success, which are ultimately fleeting and cannot provide lasting fulfillment or salvation.
Wicked schemes/deceit: It may relate to depending on dishonesty, injustice, or manipulative actions for personal gain.
Idolatry/false gods: Some scholars interpret it as trusting in false deities or idols, which are empty and powerless.
The phrase "deceiving himself" suggests that the person is actively ignoring the truth or rationalizing their misplaced trust.
"...for emptiness shall be his reward." - This part states the consequence. The person who trusts in "emptiness" will ultimately receive "emptiness" in return. This means:
Disappointment/Failure: Their hopes and expectations will be dashed. They will be left with nothing of substance or value.
Judgment/Punishment: In Eliphaz's view, the wicked who deceive themselves will ultimately face divine retribution. Their actions will lead to negative consequences.
Spiritual Destitution: They will be spiritually empty and unfulfilled, lacking genuine purpose or meaning in life.
In summary, Job 15:31 warns against placing trust in anything that is ultimately false, worthless, or deceptive. The person who does so will ultimately be left with nothing of value and will face negative consequences. It's a reminder to seek true and lasting values, which, from a religious perspective, would include faith, righteousness, and a relationship with God.
Context is crucial: Remember that Eliphaz's arguments are not presented as divinely revealed truths. He is part of the "friends" who are mistaken in their understanding of Job's situation and God's justice. Therefore, while the verse has a valuable message about misplaced trust, it's important to consider it within the broader context of the Book of Job, which explores complex themes of suffering, faith, and the mysteries of God's ways.
Job 15:31 - Let him not trust in emptiness, deceiving himself; for emptiness shall be his reward.
What does "Job 15:31" mean?
Job 15:31 is part of Eliphaz's second speech to Job. He's accusing Job of wickedness, even though Job is suffering immensely and maintains his innocence. The verse in question speaks to the consequences of trusting in something false or worthless:
"Let him not trust in emptiness, deceiving himself..." - This part warns against relying on something that has no substance or true value. This "emptiness" can be interpreted in several ways, depending on the theological perspective:
False security/pride: Eliphaz likely believes Job is relying on his supposed righteousness or innocence, which Eliphaz deems a false security because he believes Job is secretly wicked.
Material wealth: It could refer to placing trust in material possessions, power, or worldly success, which are ultimately fleeting and cannot provide lasting fulfillment or salvation.
Wicked schemes/deceit: It may relate to depending on dishonesty, injustice, or manipulative actions for personal gain.
Idolatry/false gods: Some scholars interpret it as trusting in false deities or idols, which are empty and powerless.
The phrase "deceiving himself" suggests that the person is actively ignoring the truth or rationalizing their misplaced trust.
"...for emptiness shall be his reward." - This part states the consequence. The person who trusts in "emptiness" will ultimately receive "emptiness" in return. This means:
Disappointment/Failure: Their hopes and expectations will be dashed. They will be left with nothing of substance or value.
Judgment/Punishment: In Eliphaz's view, the wicked who deceive themselves will ultimately face divine retribution. Their actions will lead to negative consequences.
Spiritual Destitution: They will be spiritually empty and unfulfilled, lacking genuine purpose or meaning in life.
In summary, Job 15:31 warns against placing trust in anything that is ultimately false, worthless, or deceptive. The person who does so will ultimately be left with nothing of value and will face negative consequences. It's a reminder to seek true and lasting values, which, from a religious perspective, would include faith, righteousness, and a relationship with God.
Context is crucial: Remember that Eliphaz's arguments are not presented as divinely revealed truths. He is part of the "friends" who are mistaken in their understanding of Job's situation and God's justice. Therefore, while the verse has a valuable message about misplaced trust, it's important to consider it within the broader context of the Book of Job, which explores complex themes of suffering, faith, and the mysteries of God's ways.