King James Version

What Does Job 24:13 Mean?

Job 24:13 in the King James Version says “They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof.” — study this verse from Job chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof.”

Job 24:13 · KJV

Context

11

Which make oil within their walls, and tread their winepresses, and suffer thirst.

12

Men groan from out of the city, and the soul of the wounded crieth out: yet God layeth not folly to them.

13

They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof.

14

The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy, and in the night is as a thief.

15

The eye also of the adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth his face. disguiseth: Heb. setteth his face in secret

Read Job 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Job describes the wicked as "those that rebel against the light (or, אוֹר)." Light in Hebrew thought represents divine revelation, truth, and righteousness (Psalm 119:105). The verb marad (מָרַד, "rebel") indicates deliberate insurrection—not mere ignorance but willful rejection. Job observes that some don't merely lack light but actively fight against it. This echoes Jesus' teaching: "Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19). From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates total depravity—humanity's rebellion isn't passive but active. The natural man doesn't simply fail to seek God; he suppresses truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). Job's observation that such rebels often prosper earthly challenges retribution theology while affirming a deeper truth: judgment isn't always immediate because God is patient (2 Peter 3:9), but rebellion against light ultimately leads to darkness.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature equated light with order, justice, and divine presence. The Egyptian concept of Ma'at (cosmic order) and Mesopotamian emphasis on righteousness as enlightenment parallel biblical imagery. However, Job's observation that light-rebels prosper would have troubled ancient readers who believed cosmic order ensured justice. This prepares for Job 38-41, where God reveals that cosmic order is more complex and mysterious than humans assume.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the concept of rebelling against light challenge modern notions that sin results merely from ignorance or dysfunction?
  2. What does Job's observation about prospering light-rebels teach us about God's patience and the timing of judgment?
  3. How should Christians respond when we see active rebels against divine truth appear to succeed?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
הֵ֤מָּה׀1 of 10
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

הָיוּ֮2 of 10
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בְּֽמֹרְדֵ֫י3 of 10

“They are of those that rebel”

H4775

to rebel

א֥וֹר4 of 10

“against the light”

H216

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

לֹֽא5 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הִכִּ֥ירוּ6 of 10

“they know”

H5234

properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (

דְרָכָ֑יו7 of 10

“not the ways”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

וְלֹ֥א8 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָ֝שְׁב֗וּ9 of 10

“thereof nor abide”

H3427

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בִּנְתִיבֹתָֽיו׃10 of 10

“in the paths”

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 24:13 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 24:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 3:19-20Proverbs 4:19Jude 1:62 Thessalonians 2:10-121 John 2:19John 9:39-41

Test Your Knowledge

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