King James Version

What Does Job 18:11 Mean?

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

Context

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

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

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

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

It shall devour the strength of his skin: even the firstborn of death shall devour his strength. strength: Heb. bars

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Topics in This Verse

Fear & Courage

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **Shall drive him to his feet.**—Comp. Job 15:21. One feels very much tempted to understand this, as the English undoubtedly suggests, *shall startle him to his feet, *but the true meaning is, more probably, *shall chase him at his heels.*

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 18:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.