King James Version

What Does Job 5:13 Mean?

Job 5:13 in the King James Version says “He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.” — study this verse from Job chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.”

Job 5:13 · KJV

Context

11

To set up on high those that be low; that those which mourn may be exalted to safety.

12

He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform their enterprise. their enterprise: or, any thing

13

He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.

14

They meet with darkness in the daytime, and grope in the noonday as in the night. meet: or, run into

15

But he saveth the poor from the sword, from their mouth, and from the hand of the mighty.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Divine Reversal of Human Wisdom: The Hebrew "taketh" (lakad) means "to capture," "ensnare," or "seize," suggesting God uses the wise person's own schemes as a trap that springs shut on them. "Craftiness" (ormah) refers to shrewd cunning, cleverness, or subtlety, often with negative connotations of manipulation and deceptive scheming. This is the same word used of the serpent in Genesis 3:1, indicating cunning employed for evil purposes rather than godly wisdom.

Speed of Divine Justice: The phrase "carried headlong" (nimhar) means "hastened," "brought to a swift end," or "rushed forward," emphasizing how quickly God can dismantle even the most elaborate, carefully constructed schemes. The "froward" (nipthalim) refers to those who are twisted, perverted, or crooked in their dealings and counsel. Eliphaz quotes this principle to argue that the wicked receive swift justice, though Job's case demonstrates that suffering isn't always direct punishment for personal sin. Notably, Paul quotes this verse in 1 Corinthians 3:19, applying it to worldly wisdom versus God's wisdom, showing its enduring theological significance across both testaments and demonstrating how God regularly frustrates human schemes that oppose His purposes.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse comes from Eliphaz's first speech to Job (Job 4-5), delivered circa 2000-1800 BC during the patriarchal period. Eliphaz, one of Job's three friends, begins sympathetically but soon argues that suffering always results from sin—a theology of strict retribution. While his principle about God overthrowing the schemes of the crafty is biblically sound (supported elsewhere in Scripture), his application to Job's situation is incorrect. The book challenges simplistic cause-and-effect theology while affirming God's ultimate justice. Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature similarly discussed the fate of the wicked, but Job uniquely addresses the problem of righteous suffering. This verse's quotation by Paul demonstrates its continuing relevance: God regularly frustrates human wisdom that opposes His purposes, from Babel to the Cross.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's ability to catch the wise in their own craftiness demonstrate His superior wisdom and sovereignty?
  2. What is the difference between godly wisdom and the cunning craftiness condemned in this verse?
  3. Why does Paul quote this verse in 1 Corinthians 3:19, and how does he apply it?
  4. Though this principle is true, why was Eliphaz wrong to apply it directly to Job's suffering?
  5. What historical or biblical examples illustrate God catching the crafty in their own schemes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לֹכֵ֣ד1 of 6

“He taketh”

H3920

to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

חֲכָמִ֣ים2 of 6

“the wise”

H2450

wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)

בְּעָרְמָ֑ם3 of 6

“in their own craftiness”

H6193

a stratagem

וַֽעֲצַ֖ת4 of 6

“and the counsel”

H6098

advice; by implication, plan; also prudence

נִפְתָּלִ֣ים5 of 6

“of the froward”

H6617

to twine, i.e., (literally) to struggle or (figuratively) be (morally) tortuous

נִמְהָֽרָה׃6 of 6

“is carried headlong”

H4116

properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)

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 5:13 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 5:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 9:15-161 Corinthians 3:191 Corinthians 1:19-20Psalms 7:15-16Luke 1:51Psalms 35:7-8

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