Job 15:34

Commentary on Job 15:34 (KJV)

Job 15:34 is part of Eliphaz the Temanite's second discourse to Job, where he continues to argue for the traditional view that suffering is a direct result of sin. This verse serves as a pronouncement of judgment against the wicked, specifically those characterized by hypocrisy and corruption.

Context

In Job chapter 15, Eliphaz responds to Job's impassioned pleas for divine justice and his assertion of innocence. Eliphaz, speaking from a position of conventional wisdom, suggests that Job's suffering must stem from some hidden iniquity. He paints a grim picture of the fate of the wicked, implicitly accusing Job of being among them. Eliphaz's arguments, while containing elements of truth about God's justice, misapply them to Job's unique situation, failing to grasp the deeper spiritual battle at play. This verse encapsulates his belief that pretense and ill-gotten gains inevitably lead to ruin.

Key Themes

• Divine Judgment on Hypocrisy: The verse powerfully declares God's opposition to those who feign righteousness while harboring corruption. The "congregation of hypocrites" refers to a community or assembly of individuals who act deceptively, presenting an outward appearance of piety or integrity that belies their true character. Their ultimate end is desolation, highlighting God's abhorrence of insincerity.
• Consequences of Corruption and Bribery: The phrase "tabernacles of bribery" speaks to homes, possessions, or even entire lives built upon dishonest practices, particularly through the perversion of justice or illicit gain. The consumption by "fire" signifies the destructive and purifying judgment of God upon such foundations, emphasizing that ill-gotten wealth and dishonest dealings do not provide lasting security. This resonates with the broader biblical principle that riches profit not in the day of wrath.
• Justice and Accountability: Eliphaz's statement, though misdirected at Job, underscores a fundamental biblical truth: there are consequences for moral corruption and spiritual deceit. While divine justice may not always be immediate or evident in human terms, the ultimate outcome for those who persist in wickedness is ruin.

Linguistic Insights

• "Hypocrites" (חָנֵף, chanef): This Hebrew term is often translated as "godless," "profane," or "impious." It describes someone who is morally corrupt and defiled, often with a connotation of outward show without inner reality. It suggests a person who is estranged from God and practices deceit.
• "Desolate" (יֶאֱזָב, ye'ezav): From a root meaning "to abandon" or "to forsake." It implies being left empty, ruined, or laid waste, indicating a complete and utter destruction or abandonment.
• "Tabernacles" (אֹהֶל, ohel): Literally "tent" or "dwelling." This word emphasizes the temporary or transient nature of earthly possessions and dwellings, especially those acquired through illicit means. Such "tents" are not built to last.
• "Bribery" (שֹׁחַד, shochad): Refers to a gift or bribe, often given to pervert justice or gain an unfair advantage. It points to dishonest and corrupt practices.

Practical Application

Job 15:34 offers timeless warnings for believers today:

1. Authenticity Over Pretense: The verse challenges us to examine our hearts and ensure our faith is genuine, not merely an outward display. God desires truth in the inward parts, and true spiritual well-being comes from sincerity before Him. This aligns with Christ's later teachings against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, as seen in Matthew 23:27.
2. Integrity in All Dealings: It serves as a stern warning against seeking gain through dishonest means, such as bribery, corruption, or exploitation. Any success built on such foundations is inherently unstable and will ultimately lead to ruin. We are called to pursue righteousness and justice in all our dealings.
3. God's Ultimate Justice: While Eliphaz misapplied this truth to Job, the principle stands: God is just, and He will ultimately bring accountability for all actions. We can trust that those who build their lives on deceit and corruption will face the consequences, and nothing gained through unrighteousness will endure.