Job 18:17

Job 18:17 is a powerful declaration from Bildad the Shuhite, one of Job's three friends, as he continues to argue for the direct correlation between wickedness and suffering. In this verse, Bildad describes the ultimate fate of the wicked, asserting that their very memory and public standing will be erased from existence.

Context of Job 18:17

This verse is part of Bildad's second discourse to Job, found in Job chapter 18. Throughout his speeches, Bildad consistently maintains the traditional wisdom theology of his time: God is just, and therefore, prosperity is a sign of righteousness, while suffering is evidence of sin. He implies that Job's immense suffering must be due to some great sin, even as Job vehemently denies it. Verses 5-21 of this chapter paint a grim picture of the wicked's demise, detailing how their light, strength, and family will vanish. Verse 17 specifically focuses on the complete obliteration of their legacy and public reputation, reinforcing Bildad's argument about divine retribution.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Perishment of the Wicked's Remembrance: The primary message is that the wicked will be utterly forgotten. Their deeds, their very existence, will leave no lasting mark on the earth. This contrasts sharply with the hope of a lasting legacy, which was highly valued in ancient cultures.
• Loss of Public Name and Reputation: The phrase "shall have no name in the street" signifies a complete loss of public honor, influence, and recognition. In ancient societies, a good name and reputation were paramount, and to have "no name" meant total social and historical erasure. This concept echoes the idea of "the memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot" (Proverbs 10:7).
• Divine Retribution (from Bildad's Perspective): For Bildad, this verse illustrates God's just judgment against the wicked. He believes that God ensures not only their physical destruction but also the eradication of their memory, leaving no trace behind. This reflects a common ancient Near Eastern belief about the ultimate fate of those who defied the divine order.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "His remembrance shall perish" translates the Hebrew word זֵכֶר (*zeker*), which can mean 'memory,' 'remembrance,' or 'memorial.' It refers to the lasting impression or legacy one leaves behind. The idea that this *zeker* will "perish from the earth" emphasizes a complete and utter erasure from human history and collective consciousness.

The second part, "and he shall have no name in the street," uses the Hebrew word שֵׁם (*shem*) for 'name,' which often signifies reputation, character, or renown. To have "no name in the street" vividly portrays the loss of public standing and recognition, suggesting that the person's influence and identity will be completely forgotten in public spaces and discourse.

Related Scriptures

• For a contrasting view on the wicked's temporary prosperity, see Psalm 37:35-36, which states, "I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found."
• The importance of a good name is also highlighted in Ecclesiastes 7:1: "A good name is better than precious ointment."
• Bildad's harsh view of the wicked's fate can be contrasted with God's ultimate plan for justice and redemption, as revealed through Job's later vindication in Job 42:10-17.

Practical Application

While Bildad's theology is ultimately shown to be flawed in the book of Job, this verse still prompts reflection on the nature of legacy and the impact of one's life. It encourages us to consider:

• The Enduring Value of Righteousness: Ultimately, the Bible teaches that it is a life lived in accordance with God's will, marked by faith and integrity, that leaves a lasting positive mark, not worldly power or fleeting reputation.
• Focus on Eternal Significance: Instead of striving for a "name in the street" that can perish, believers are called to build a legacy that matters in God's eyes, focusing on eternal rewards rather than temporary earthly recognition.
• God's True Justice: The book of Job challenges simplistic views of divine justice. While the wicked may indeed face consequences, God's ways are more complex and merciful than Bildad's rigid theology suggests. True justice often involves not just retribution but also restoration and grace.