King James Version
What Does Job 21:24 Mean?
“His breasts are full of milk, and his bones are moistened with marrow. breasts: or, milk pails”
Job 21:24 · KJV
Context
22
Shall any teach God knowledge? seeing he judgeth those that are high.
23
One dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet. his: Heb. his very, or, the strength of, his perfection
24
His breasts are full of milk, and his bones are moistened with marrow. breasts: or, milk pails
25
And another dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure.
26
They shall lie down alike in the dust, and the worms shall cover them.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentarySome die in prosperity: 'His breasts are full of milk, and his bones are moistened with marrow.' Job describes someone in peak health ('breasts full' suggests abundant nourishment, 'bones moistened with marrow' indicates vigor) who dies nonetheless. Health isn't protection from death. This further undermines using physical condition as divine favor indicator. The healthy and unhealthy alike face mortality.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient Near Eastern medicine recognized that even the apparently healthy could die suddenly. Milk and marrow imagery suggests optimal nutrition and health. Job's point: neither health nor wealth prevents death, so they can't be used as simple righteousness indicators.
Reflection Questions
- How does death's unpredictability regardless of health challenge health-and-wealth gospel?
- What does it mean to steward health while recognizing it doesn't guarantee longevity?
- How should awareness of mortality's unpredictability shape our daily living?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsמָלְא֣וּ2 of 6
“are full”
H4390to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
עַצְמוֹתָ֣יו5 of 6
“and his bones”
H6106a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame
יְשֻׁקֶּֽה׃6 of 6
“are moistened”
H8248to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to
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 21:24 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 21:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge