King James Version
What Does Job 18:1 Mean?
“Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said,”
Job 18:1 · KJV
Context
1
Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said,
2
How long will it be ere ye make an end of words? mark, and afterwards we will speak.
3
Wherefore are we counted as beasts, and reputed vile in your sight?
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThen answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said—This formal introduction marks Bildad's second speech (his first was Job 8). His name possibly means 'Bel has loved' (from Babylonian god Bel), suggesting eastern origin. 'Shuhite' identifies him as descendant of Shuah, Abraham's son by Keturah (Genesis 25:2), establishing ancient lineage and wisdom credentials. The narrative formula 'answered and said' signals formal disputation in wisdom dialogue.
Bildad's second speech (18:2-21) intensifies his retribution theology from chapter 8. Whereas his first speech offered hope if Job would repent (8:5-7), this discourse relentlessly describes the wicked person's fate with no pastoral grace. His argument: Job's suffering proves wickedness, and protesting innocence only compounds guilt. Bildad represents orthodox theology without love—correct doctrine devoid of mercy. His portrait of the wicked person's doom (vv.5-21) is theologically accurate for the finally impenitent but pastorally catastrophic when applied to the suffering righteous. Jesus later warned against this judgmental approach (Luke 13:1-5, John 9:1-3).
Bildad's second speech (18:2-21) intensifies his retribution theology from chapter 8. Whereas his first speech offered hope if Job would repent (8:5-7), this discourse relentlessly describes the wicked person's fate with no pastoral grace. His argument: Job's suffering proves wickedness, and protesting innocence only compounds guilt. Bildad represents orthodox theology without love—correct doctrine devoid of mercy. His portrait of the wicked person's doom (vv.5-21) is theologically accurate for the finally impenitent but pastorally catastrophic when applied to the suffering righteous. Jesus later warned against this judgmental approach (Luke 13:1-5, John 9:1-3).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Wisdom literature debates in the ancient Near East followed formal conventions: speakers were identified by lineage, speeches addressed previous arguments, and disputants cited tradition. Bildad consistently appeals to ancestral wisdom (8:8-10) rather than personal experience (unlike Eliphaz's vision) or reason (unlike Zophar). His second speech comes after Job's anguished cry for vindication (chapters 16-17), which Bildad interprets as arrogant rebellion against divine justice.
Reflection Questions
- How can theologically correct doctrine become pastorally destructive when applied without discernment or mercy?
- In what ways do you resemble Bildad when you judge others' suffering as evidence of hidden sin?
- How does Jesus's approach to suffering (John 9:1-3) differ from Bildad's retribution theology?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 4 wordsוַ֭יַּעַן1 of 4
“Then answered”
H6030properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
Study Guide
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 18:1 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 18:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge