Job 11:18

KJV

And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig [about thee, and] thou shalt take thy rest in safety.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt be secure {H982}, because there is {H3426} hope {H8615}; yea, thou shalt dig {H2658} about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest {H7901} in safety {H983}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You will be confident, because there is hope; you will look around you and lie down secure;

Berean Standard Bible

You will be secure, because there is hope, and you will look around and lie down in safety.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; Yea, thou shalt searchabout thee, and shalt take thy rest in safety.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 11:18 forms part of Zophar the Naamathite's first speech, where he articulates a traditional retribution theology to Job, asserting that if Job were to repent and return to God, he would experience profound security and peace. Zophar presents a vision of hope leading to stability, where Job could settle into a life free from anxiety and fear, enjoying divine favor and protection, believing this state was contingent upon Job's confession of sin and turning back to the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Job 11:18 is embedded within Zophar's initial, rather harsh, response to Job's lamentations. Zophar, the third of Job's friends, enters the dialogue with a more extreme and less empathetic tone than Eliphaz or Bildad. He accuses Job of being a windbag (Job 11:2-3) and implicitly suggests Job's suffering is less than he deserves (Job 11:6). His speech (Job 11:1-20) is characterized by a rigid adherence to the doctrine of divine retribution: the righteous prosper, the wicked suffer. Verses 13-19 outline the blessings that would accrue to Job if he would only repent and "stretch out his hands to Him" (Job 11:13). This specific verse, Job 11:18, is the culmination of Zophar's promise of restoration, painting a vivid picture of the peace and security that would follow Job's presumed repentance, contrasting sharply with Job's current state of despair and insecurity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zophar's counsel reflects a widespread ancient Near Eastern worldview where prosperity, health, and security were understood as direct indicators of divine favor, while suffering and misfortune were signs of divine displeasure, usually due to unconfessed sin. The imagery of "digging" (often interpreted as preparing a secure dwelling or finding vital resources like water in an arid land) and "taking rest in safety" speaks to the fundamental human desire for stability and protection in a world where life was often precarious. Security was not merely an abstract concept but a tangible reality tied to physical provisions, a settled home, and freedom from external threats like bandits or natural disasters. Zophar's advice, while misapplied to Job's unique situation, was rooted in a common cultural understanding of the covenantal relationship between deity and humanity, where obedience brought blessing and disobedience brought curse.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes within the book of Job and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **conditional blessing** as understood by Job's friends, where security and hope are directly linked to human righteousness and repentance. Zophar's perspective, though ultimately challenged by God (Job 42:7-9), underscores the common ancient belief in a direct cause-and-effect relationship between behavior and divine response. Secondly, it explores the theme of **hope as a foundation for security**. Zophar posits that the presence of hope (`tiqvâ`) is the prerequisite for experiencing `bāṭaḥ` (security). This connection between an inner state of expectation and an outer experience of peace is a profound biblical truth, even if Zophar's application was flawed. Thirdly, the verse touches on the theme of **divine provision and rest**, portraying a life free from fear, where one can "take thy rest in safety," a concept echoed in other scriptures that speak of God providing rest for His people, such as [Psalm 4:8](/psalm/4-8 "Psalm 4:8 - Rest in Safety") or [Proverbs 3:24](/proverbs/3-24 "Proverbs 3:24 - Sleep in Peace").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Secure (Hebrew: בָּטַח, _bāṭaḥ_):** This verb signifies "to trust," "to be confident," "to feel safe," or "to rely upon." It implies a sense of firm reliance, often on God, resulting in a state of inner and outer security. Here, Zophar uses it to describe the stable, fearless existence Job would enjoy if he repented, suggesting a confidence rooted in restored divine favor.
* **Hope (Hebrew: תִּקְוָה, _tiqvâ_):** This noun means "expectation," "hope," or "a cord." The imagery of a "cord" suggests something to hold onto, a lifeline, or a strong connection that provides stability and assurance. In this context, Zophar links the presence of such an expectation—presumably of God's renewed favor—as the very foundation of Job's potential security.
* **Take thy rest (Hebrew: וְשָׁכַנְתָּ לָבֶטַח, _wəshāḵantā lāḇeṭaḥ_ - literally "and you will dwell securely"):** The verb `shākhan` (שָׁכַן) means "to settle down," "to dwell," or "to reside." The KJV's "take thy rest" captures the essence of settling into a peaceful, undisturbed dwelling. Coupled with `lāḇeṭaḥ` ("in safety/security"), it paints a picture of a life free from anxiety, where one can truly be at ease in their home and environment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope;":** Zophar establishes a direct causal link between the presence of hope and the experience of security. He implies that Job's current insecurity stems from a lack of proper hope, which Zophar believes can only be restored through repentance. This security (`bāṭaḥ`) is not merely physical but also an inner state of confidence and trust.
* **"yea, thou shalt dig [about thee, and]":** The phrase "dig [about thee]" (KJV adds "about thee" for clarity, the Hebrew is simply "you will dig") can be interpreted in several ways. It could refer to digging for water, a vital act for survival and settlement in arid lands, signifying self-sufficiency and provision. Alternatively, it could mean digging a foundation for a secure dwelling or searching out resources. In any case, it implies an active engagement with one's environment to establish stability, an effort that would be blessed and fruitful under divine favor.
* **"thou shalt take thy rest in safety.":** This final clause describes the ultimate outcome of the hoped-for security. To "take thy rest in safety" (or "dwell securely") implies a profound state of peace, undisturbed by fear or threat. It speaks to a settled, tranquil existence, free from the anxieties and turmoil that plagued Job, allowing for deep, unhindered peace and well-being.

#### Literary Devices
Zophar's words in Job 11:18 employ several powerful literary devices. **Conditional Language** is implicitly present throughout Zophar's speech, even if not explicitly stated with an "if...then" in this specific verse; the promises of security and rest are clearly contingent upon Job's repentance as outlined in the preceding verses (Job 11:13-17). **Imagery** is central, with vivid pictures of "digging" (suggesting establishment and provision) and "taking rest in safety" (evoking peace and undisturbed dwelling). These images create a tangible vision of the blessed life Zophar believes Job could regain. Furthermore, there is a clear sense of **Parallelism** in the progression from hope to security, and then to the practical outworking of that security in the ability to "dig" and "rest in safety," reinforcing the interconnectedness of these concepts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
While Zophar's application of his theology to Job was flawed—Job's suffering was not a direct result of unconfessed sin—the underlying principles he articulates about hope and security carry profound theological weight. The Bible consistently affirms that genuine hope, particularly hope placed in God, is indeed the bedrock of true security and peace. This is not a superficial optimism but a deep, confident expectation rooted in God's character, faithfulness, and promises. When our hope is anchored in the Lord, we can experience a stability that transcends external circumstances, finding rest even amidst life's storms. This divine security is not merely the absence of trouble but the presence of God's peace, allowing us to "take our rest in safety" because our trust is in the One who is sovereign and good.

* [Psalm 4:8](/psalm/4-8 "Psalm 4:8 - Rest in Safety")
* [Proverbs 3:24](/proverbs/3-24 "Proverbs 3:24 - Sleep Without Fear")
* [Romans 15:13](/romans/15-13 "Romans 15:13 - The God of Hope")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Job 11:18, despite its problematic context within Zophar's speech, invites us to reflect on the true source of our security and rest. In a world often characterized by anxiety, uncertainty, and a relentless pursuit of external assurances, Zophar's words, stripped of their conditional misapplication, remind us that authentic hope is foundational to genuine peace. Where do we place our hope? Is it in our financial stability, our health, our relationships, or our own efforts? While these may offer temporary comfort, the verse points to a deeper, more enduring security that flows from a settled hope. Cultivating this hope means actively trusting in God's unchanging character, His sovereign plan, and His unfailing love. It allows us to truly "take our rest in safety," not because problems disappear, but because our inner state is anchored in a faithful God who holds our future. This spiritual peace enables us to face challenges with courage and to live with a profound sense of well-being, knowing that our ultimate security is in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is the primary source of your security and hope in life?**
* **How does placing your hope in God, rather than circumstances, change your experience of "rest in safety"?**
* **In what areas of your life do you feel the least secure, and how might cultivating a deeper hope in God address those anxieties?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "dig" (i.e., establish or strengthen) your spiritual foundation and cultivate a more profound sense of hope?**

### FAQ
**Was Zophar's advice in Job 11:18 entirely wrong?**

Answer: While Zophar's *application* of his theology to Job was fundamentally flawed—Job's suffering was not due to unconfessed sin, as God later clarifies (Job 42:7-9)—the *principles* he articulated about hope leading to security contain profound truth. The Bible consistently affirms that hope, particularly hope rooted in God, is indeed the foundation for true peace and security. Zophar's error was in his rigid, simplistic understanding of divine retribution and his judgmental assumption about Job's character. He failed to grasp the complexity of God's ways and the possibility of righteous suffering. So, the "what" (hope leads to security) has biblical merit, but the "why" (because you must have sinned) and the "how" (repent and all will be well immediately) were misguided in Job's context.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Job 11:18, despite being spoken by Zophar with a flawed understanding of God's ways, points prophetically to the ultimate source of true hope, security, and rest found in Jesus Christ. Zophar's conditional promise of peace, contingent on human repentance and righteousness, finds its perfect and unconditional fulfillment in the finished work of Christ. We are made "secure" not by our own digging or merit, but by placing our "hope" in the One who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and bore our sins. Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, promising that He will give them "rest" ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). The "safety" Zophar envisioned is realized in Christ, who offers a peace that the world cannot give or take away ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - My Peace I Give You")). Through faith in Him, believers are granted a secure dwelling in God's presence, an eternal "rest" that remains for the people of God ([Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-11 - A Sabbath Rest Remains")). Our security is not in our performance, but in Christ's perfect sacrifice and resurrection, granting us an unshakeable hope and an eternal dwelling place, allowing us to truly "take our rest in safety" in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 3:24

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

Proverbs 3:26

For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

Psalms 4:8

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.

Psalms 3:5

I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.

Psalms 43:5

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.

Leviticus 26:5

And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.

Leviticus 26:6

And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make [you] afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land.