King James Version
Job 21:17 in the King James Version says “How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in...” — study this verse from Job chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in his anger. candle: or, lamp”
Job 21:17 · KJV
What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we pray unto him?
Lo, their good is not in their hand: the counsel of the wicked is far from me.
How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in his anger. candle: or, lamp
They are as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carrieth away. carrieth: Heb. stealeth
God layeth up his iniquity for his children: he rewardeth him, and he shall know it. his iniquity: that is, the punishment of his iniquity
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“How oft is the candle”
H5216a lamp (i.e., the burner) or light (literally or figuratively)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“in his anger”
H639properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
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.
Job 21:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Job 21:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge