King James Version
What Does Job 1:20 Mean?
“Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, mantle: or, robe”
Context
18
While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house:
19
And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. from: Heb. from aside, etc
20
Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, mantle: or, robe
21
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
22
In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. charged: or, attributed folly to God
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(20) **And worshipped.**—Compare the conduct of David (2Samuel 12:20) and of Hezekiah (2Kings 19:1). Moments of intense sorrow or trial, like moments of intense joy, force us into the immediate presence of God.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Job 1:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 1:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge