King James Version
What Does Job 31:38 Mean?
“If my land cry against me, or that the furrows likewise thereof complain; complain: Heb. weep”
Context
36
Surely I would take it upon my shoulder, and bind it as a crown to me.
37
I would declare unto him the number of my steps; as a prince would I go near unto him.
38
If my land cry against me, or that the furrows likewise thereof complain; complain: Heb. weep
39
If I have eaten the fruits thereof without money, or have caused the owners thereof to lose their life: fruits: Heb. strength the owners: Heb. the soul of the owners thereof to expire, or, breathe out
40
Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended. cockle: or, noisome weeds
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(38) **Or that the furrows likewise thereof complain.**—Rather, *Or if the furrows thereof weep together*—a strong impersonation to express the consequence of oppression and wrong-doing. It is to be observed that throughout this defence Job has far more than traversed the indictment of his friends. He has shown that he has not only not broken the moral law, as they insinuated, but, much more, has shown himself exemplary in all the relations of life, so that, according to the narrator of the history, he was not only one that *feared God and eschewed evil *(Job 1:1), but also was *perfect, i.e., *of sincere and consistent conduct and *upright.*
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
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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 31:38 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 31:38
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge