Commentary on Job 31:27
Job 31:27: "And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand."
Context and Overview
The context of Job 31 provides a significant insight into Job's character and integrity. In this chapter, Job defends his conduct and refutes the accusations brought against him by his friends. The verse in question showcases Job's awareness of the potential for sinful desire and the human propensity towards hidden sin.
Insights from Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry emphasizes the moral purity of Job in this section. He notes that Job recognizes the danger of the heart being "secretly enticed." It reflects an awareness of the subtleties of sin which can begin in the heart and manifest in outward actions. Henry draws attention to how the secret enticements of the heart can lead a person to sin, even when those actions remain outwardly concealed.
- Importance of the Heart: Henry points out the heart's primacy in moral decision-making. The heart must be kept pure, as it is the source from which actions flow.
- Secret Sins: Job reveals that even hidden desires can compromise one's integrity. One must guard against the allure of sin that exists merely in thoughts but can corrupt character.
Insights from Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes provides a detailed exposition of the original Hebrew text, highlighting the theological implications of Job's acknowledgment of inner temptation. Barnes interprets "my mouth hath kissed my hand" as a figurative expression of devotion to things that are not worthy of adoration.
- Worship of False Idols: Barnes suggests that Job is alluding to the idolatrous tendencies that can arise in a person's heart when tempted. This kissing of the hand symbolizes a form of homage or worship that is misdirected.
- Self-Examination: Barnes encourages readers to introspect and assess their own hearts and whether they have given undue affection to anything other than God.
Insights from Adam Clarke
Adam Clarke's commentary sheds light on the cultural and historical background of Job's words. He asserts that the metaphor of kissing one's hand was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a sign of reverence or submission to deities.
- Human Nature and Temptation: Clarke identifies the universal struggle with temptation. Job's words resonate with the experience of many believers who face the inner conflict of loving God while being drawn into secular pursuits.
- Job’s Integrity: Clarke strongly affirms Job's claim of integrity, noting that his mere acknowledgment of temptation does not equate to a fall into sin. Instead, it demonstrates a profound understanding of human weakness.
Theological Reflections
The commentary on Job 31:27 challenges both personal and communal reflections on sin and integrity. Job’s assertion of inner purity despite recognizing the allure of sin illustrates a deep relationship with God, marked by self-awareness and the desire for holiness.
- Accountability: This verse reminds believers of the need for accountability in the Christian life, recognizing that temptation can lead to sin if not diligently guarded against.
- Grace and Redemption: Job's honesty in exposing his heart's tendencies points to the broader theme of divine grace, revealing that acknowledgment of sin leads to restoration and the need for God's mercy.
Conclusion
Job 31:27 serves as a vital reminder for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars about the necessity of guarding one’s heart against secret enticements of sin. With insights drawn from Matthews Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, the verse emphasizes self-examination, awareness of hidden sin, and devotion to God above all. Engaging with this text allows for deeper spiritual growth and an understanding of maintaining integrity in one’s walk with God.