Job 31:9

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Job 31:1 Job 31:2 Job 31:3 Job 31:4 Job 31:5 Job 31:6 Job 31:7 Job 31:8 Job 31:9 Job 31:10 Job 31:11 Job 31:12 Job 31:13 Job 31:14 Job 31:15 Job 31:16 Job 31:17 Job 31:18 Job 31:19 Job 31:20 Job 31:21 Job 31:22 Job 31:23 Job 31:24 Job 31:25 Job 31:26 Job 31:27 Job 31:28 Job 31:29 Job 31:30 Job 31:31 Job 31:32 Job 31:33 Job 31:34 Job 31:35 Job 31:36 Job 31:37 Job 31:38 Job 31:39 Job 31:40

Job 31:9 KJV

If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour's door;

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Job 31:9 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Job 31:9

Verse: "If my heart has been enticed by a woman, or if I have lurked at my neighbor's door," (Job 31:9, ESV)

Introduction

The Book of Job is one of the most profound works in the Bible that explores the depths of human suffering and the nature of God’s justice. In Job 31, Job makes a solemn declaration of his integrity in the face of his friends' accusations. Job’s personal code of ethics is revealed, culminating in a series of vows or petitions to God that reflect his commitment to righteousness.

Contextual Understanding

Job is addressing his friends, who have unjustly accused him of sin as the cause of his suffering. In this specific verse, he provides a poignant example of his commitment to purity and loyalty by condemning lust and betrayal. His admission serves as a powerful contrast to the shameful acts that can arise from unchecked desires and the profound implications of fidelity.

Thematic Insights

  • Moral Integrity: Job candidly confronts the issue of lust, recognizing its destructive potential. This admission is not merely an abstract contemplation but a public declaration of his moral high ground.
  • Human Desire: The reference to being 'enticed' reflects a common human experience. Job illustrates the battle between righteousness and the allure of temptation, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.
  • Consequences of Sin: Job’s insight into lurking at his neighbor's door denotes the concept of coveting, which can lead to severe spiritual ramifications. This is a reminder of the nature of sin leading to eventual destruction.

Commentary from Public Domain Sources

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry notes that Job’s declaration underscores the serious nature of lust and how it intricately ties to a person's heart and actions. Henry emphasizes that when one yields to such temptations, they are not merely transgressing a moral law but are also violating their covenant with God. Job’s introspection serves to remind believers of the necessity of vigilance against sin.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes reflects on the significance Job places on the heart in relation to sin. He asserts that merely avoiding action is not enough; the intentions and desires of the heart are equally pivotal. Barnes argues that Job's heart was not just innocent in deed, but also in its affections; a principle that aligns with Jesus’ teaching that moral purity begins within. He further discusses the importance of integrity in relationships, specifically regarding fidelity and justice towards neighbors.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke examines the broader implications of Job 31:9, particularly in societal and relational contexts. He emphasizes that Job uses this verse as part of an oath, suggesting that he is not only affirming his own righteousness but challenging the accusations posed against him. Clarke also highlights the Hebrew understanding of ‘lurking’ which connotes a premeditated action, thus underscoring the seriousness of the sin of betrayal. Such caution against lust and betrayal, Clarke posits, is not only relevant to personal ethics but reflects divine expectations for community life.

Theological Implications

This verse has rich theological applications. First, it draws attention to the importance of inner purity as part of one's faith journey. Secondly, it highlights the significance of personal responsibility in relationships. Job's declarations represent a model for believers today; a commitment to upholding integrity and moral character in a world where such values are increasingly challenged.

Practical Applications

  • Self-Examination: Pastors and leaders are encouraged to practice rigorous self-examination, ensuring their own hearts are aligned with God's standards.
  • Accountability: The importance of accountability in relationships cannot be overstated. Job's public stance serves as an example for congregations to foster open dialogues about moral integrity.
  • Prevention of Temptation: This passage calls believers to take proactive measures in guarding against temptation, reflecting on their interactions and influences around them.

Conclusion

Job 31:9 serves as a profound testament to the virtue of integrity and fidelity. Through the lens of Job’s statements, modern readers are reminded of the timelessness of these issues, the necessity for heart purity, and the call to uphold righteousness in personal and communal settings. As practitioners of the faith reflect on this verse, may they be inspired to continue pursuing lives marked by unwavering ethical commitment and relational fidelity.

Job 31 (KJV) Verse Selection

Job 31:1 Job 31:2 Job 31:3 Job 31:4 Job 31:5 Job 31:6 Job 31:7 Job 31:8 Job 31:9 Job 31:10 Job 31:11 Job 31:12 Job 31:13 Job 31:14 Job 31:15 Job 31:16 Job 31:17 Job 31:18 Job 31:19 Job 31:20 Job 31:21 Job 31:22 Job 31:23 Job 31:24 Job 31:25 Job 31:26 Job 31:27 Job 31:28 Job 31:29 Job 31:30 Job 31:31 Job 31:32 Job 31:33 Job 31:34 Job 31:35 Job 31:36 Job 31:37 Job 31:38 Job 31:39 Job 31:40

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