King James Version
What Does Job 1:21 Mean?
“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.”
Context
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(21) **Thither.**—If taken literally, can only refer to the *womb, *which in that case must here mean the earth, with a probable allusion to Genesis 3:19. (Comp. Job 17:14.)
**Blessed be the name of the Lord.**—The very word used in a contrary sense (Job 1:11)*. *Thus was Satan foiled for *the first *time.
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 1:21 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 1:21
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge