Introduction

The Book of Job deals profoundly with themes of suffering, divine sovereignty, and the human condition. Job 15:21 is situated within the discourse of Eliphaz the Temanite, where he articulates his view of the fate of the wicked. This verse encapsulates the terror and inner turmoil experienced by those who are estranged from God and highlights the contrast between their fleeting prosperity and impending doom.

Exegesis and Analysis

• Contextual Background

  Eliphaz addresses Job, asserting that he is suffering due to his sins. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the doom awaiting those who lead a life away from the fear of God. Eliphaz’s arguments are rooted in his experiences and visions, emphasizing a retributive theology that equates prosperity with righteousness and suffering with divine judgment.

• The "Dreadful Sound"

  In Job 15:21, the reference to “a dreadful sound” indicates a foreboding atmosphere surrounding the wicked. Matthew Henry suggests that this sound reflects the anticipatory fear and anxiety that accompany a life devoid of divine reassurance. The terrifying awareness of impending calamity signifies the moral and spiritual disorder within the individual’s heart.

• Prosperity and Impending Judgment

  Eliphaz argues that the prosperity of the wicked is but a transient facade. In his interpretation of this verse, Adam Clarke emphasizes the futility of worldly success when not grounded in righteousness. The term “the destroyer” can be interpreted as a metaphor for divine judgment that disrupts this illusory peace. It serves as a warning to the faithful about the fleeting nature of earthly blessings.