King James Version
What Does Job 24:16 Mean?
“In the dark they dig through houses, which they had marked for themselves in the daytime: they know not the light.”
Context
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
16
In the dark they dig through houses, which they had marked for themselves in the daytime: they know not the light.
17
For the morning is to them even as the shadow of death: if one know them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death.
18
He is swift as the waters ; their portion is cursed in the earth: he beholdeth not the way of the vineyards.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Which they had marked for themselves in the daytime.**—Or, as some understand, *they seal *(*i.e*., shut) *themselves up in the daytime. *It is said that it is still the custom in Eastern cities for such persons to endeavour to obtain access to the harem in female attire.
**They know not the light.**—Compared with Job 24:13, shows strongly the different usage of the expression in the two cases.
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 24:16 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 24:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge