King James Version

What Does Job 18:10 Mean?

Job 18:10 in the King James Version says “The snare is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way. laid: Heb. hidden” — study this verse from Job chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The snare is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way. laid: Heb. hidden”

Job 18:10 · KJV

Context

8

For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walketh upon a snare.

9

The gin shall take him by the heel, and the robber shall prevail against him.

10

The snare is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way. laid: Heb. hidden

11

Terrors shall make him afraid on every side, and shall drive him to his feet. drive: Heb. scatter

12

His strength shall be hungerbitten, and destruction shall be ready at his side.

Read Job 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Hidden traps surround the wicked: 'The snare is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way.' Bildad emphasizes hidden dangers—traps both in ground (concealed) and in the way (visible path). The wicked face danger in every direction. While sin does create such vulnerability, Bildad ignores that the righteous also face trials (John 16:33). His theology can't account for suffering that serves purposes beyond punishment.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient hunting involved both concealed ground traps (covered pits) and path traps (snares across trails). This dual imagery suggests comprehensive vulnerability—no escape route available. Bildad uses hunting metaphors to describe divine justice pursuing the wicked.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does persistent sin create vulnerability to dangers we might otherwise avoid?
  2. What biblical examples show the righteous facing trials despite their faithfulness?
  3. How do we minister to sufferers without assuming their suffering indicates hidden sin?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
טָמ֣וּן1 of 6

“is laid”

H2934

to hide (by covering over)

בָּאָ֣רֶץ2 of 6

“for him in the ground”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

חַבְל֑וֹ3 of 6

“The snare”

H2256

ruin

וּ֝מַלְכֻּדְתּ֗וֹ4 of 6

“and a trap”

H4434

a snare

עֲלֵ֣י5 of 6
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

נָתִֽיב׃6 of 6

“for him in the way”

H5410

a (beaten) track

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 18:10 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 18:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 11:9Psalms 11:6Ezekiel 12:13

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