Job 18:6

KJV

The light shall be dark in his tabernacle, and his candle shall be put out with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

The light {H216} shall be dark {H2821} in his tabernacle {H168}, and his candle {H5216} shall be put out {H1846} with him.

Complete Jewish Bible

the light in his tent is darkened, the lamp over him will be snuffed out.

Berean Standard Bible

The light in his tent grows dark, and the lamp beside him goes out.

American Standard Version

The light shall be dark in his tent, And his lamp above him shall be put out.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 18:6, a pronouncement from Bildad the Shuhite, starkly depicts the inevitable and complete ruin awaiting the wicked. Employing vivid imagery of a dwelling losing its illumination and a lamp being extinguished, the verse asserts that the prosperity, vitality, and legacy of those who persist in unrighteousness will be utterly consumed. This statement reflects the rigid retribution theology held by Job's friends, who believed that suffering was always a direct consequence of sin, symbolizing a profound cessation of joy and existence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Job 18:6 is a potent declaration embedded within Bildad's second discourse to Job, found in [Job chapter 18](/job/18 "Job 18 - Bildad's Second Speech"). This speech follows Job's fervent defense of his integrity and his desperate laments concerning God's seemingly unjust actions. Bildad, unwavering in his conviction, escalates his argument for divine retribution, systematically outlining the characteristics and ultimate demise of the wicked. His detailed portrayal of their grim fate is implicitly directed at Job, reinforcing the friends' unshakeable belief that suffering is a direct, proportionate consequence of sin. This verse, in particular, functions as a severe pronouncement of the wicked's total destruction, standing in stark contrast to the hope and vindication that Job earnestly sought, thereby intensifying the profound theological debate at the core of the book.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, societal understanding deeply linked prosperity, a flourishing household, and a continuing lineage with divine favor and righteousness. Conversely, suffering, barrenness, and the extinction of a family line were widely interpreted as clear indicators of divine judgment for sin. The term "tabernacle" (Hebrew: *'ohel*) in this context refers not to the sacred Israelite sanctuary, but to a personal dwelling or tent, symbolizing one's home, family, and sphere of influence. A "candle" or "lamp" (Hebrew: *ner*) was an indispensable source of light in ancient homes, universally symbolizing life, hope, prosperity, and the continuity of a family name, as a lamp kept burning signified a living, active household. To have one's light or lamp extinguished was a profoundly ominous symbol of utter ruin, death, and the complete termination of one's lineage, leaving no heir or memory. Bildad's words thus resonate deeply with these ingrained cultural understandings of divine causality in human affairs.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Job. Foremost, it powerfully articulates the theme of **retribution theology**, which posits an inflexible, direct correlation between sin and suffering, and righteousness and prosperity. This forms the bedrock of Job's friends' argument, as they grapple to reconcile Job's immense suffering with his undeniable righteousness. The verse also profoundly highlights the **problem of suffering**, as Bildad's rigid application of this theology proves inadequate in explaining Job's unique predicament, where a righteous individual endures inexplicable pain. Furthermore, the **symbolism of light and darkness** is a pervasive motif, with light representing life, blessing, and divine presence, and darkness signifying judgment, death, and separation from God. Bildad masterfully employs this symbolism to depict the wicked's ultimate despair, a theme echoed throughout wisdom literature, such as [Proverbs 4:19](/proverbs/4-19 "Proverbs 4:19 - The Path of the Wicked"), which describes the wicked's path as "darkness." The broader narrative of Job ultimately challenges this simplistic worldview, revealing a more intricate understanding of divine sovereignty and justice, exemplified by Job's unwavering endurance through trials, even when God's ways remain inscrutable, as initially established in [Job 1:22](/job/1-22 "Job 1:22 - Job's Response to Suffering").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tabernacle (Hebrew, _ʼôhel'_):** Derived from the root אָהַל, this term refers to a tent or dwelling, often conspicuous from a distance. In Job 18:6, it symbolizes the wicked person's entire domestic sphere, encompassing their home, family, descendants, and all that constitutes their personal domain and legacy. The "tabernacle" becoming dark signifies the complete desolation and ruin of their household and all associated influence.
* **Light (Hebrew, _ʼôwr'_):** Stemming from אוֹר, "light" denotes illumination, a luminary, brightness, or even happiness. In this verse, "light" represents life, vitality, joy, prosperity, understanding, and divine favor. Its extinguishing signifies the cessation of all positive aspects in the wicked's life, plunging them into a state of utter desolation and spiritual darkness, devoid of hope.
* **Candle (Hebrew, _nîyr'_):** Also appearing as נִר, נֵיר, or נֵר, and sometimes the feminine נֵרָה, this term refers to a lamp or light source, literally or figuratively. Symbolically, the "candle" represents the continuation of life, the presence of an heir, and the enduring legacy of a family name. To have one's "candle put out" is a potent idiom for the termination of life, the destruction of one's lineage, and the complete eradication of one's memory or influence.
* **Put out (Hebrew, _dâʻak'_):** A primitive root meaning "to be extinguished," "to expire," or "to be dried up." This verb conveys a profound sense of finality and completeness. When applied to a light or candle, it emphasizes that the source of illumination is not merely dimmed but utterly snuffed out, leaving no possibility of rekindling. In the context of a life, it implies total ruin, premature death, and the absolute end of one's existence and legacy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The light shall be dark in his tabernacle":** This clause vividly portrays a dramatic reversal of fortune and a descent into desolation. The "light," which symbolizes prosperity, joy, life, and well-being, that once illuminated the wicked person's "tabernacle" (their home, family, and entire sphere of influence), will be consumed by "darkness." This signifies the absolute cessation of all that brings vitality and happiness. It implies a profound spiritual and existential void, where all blessings are withdrawn, and the very essence of their life becomes devoid of hope, purpose, or goodness.
* **"and his candle shall be put out with him":** This second clause functions as a powerful reinforcement and intensification of the first through synonymous parallelism. The "candle," symbolizing the continuity of life, the legacy, and the hope for future generations belonging to the wicked person, will be "put out" or utterly extinguished. The emphatic phrase "with him" underscores that this destruction is deeply personal and comprehensive, impacting not only his current state but also his future prospects and his very memory. It points to ultimate ruin, often implying an ignominious or premature death, and the complete termination of his lineage, leaving no one to carry on his name or perpetuate his light.

#### Literary Devices
Job 18:6 is richly imbued with **Symbolism**, primarily through the stark contrast of "light" and "darkness." Light serves as a multifaceted symbol for life, prosperity, divine favor, and the continuation of a legacy, while darkness unequivocally represents ruin, judgment, despair, and the cessation of existence. The "tabernacle" itself is symbolic of the wicked person's entire domestic sphere, their household, and their sphere of influence. The "candle" further symbolizes the individual's life force, their personal vitality, and the continuity of their lineage. The verse also employs **Metaphor**, as abstract concepts like prosperity and life are directly equated with light, and ruin and death with darkness, creating a powerful sensory image. Furthermore, the verse exhibits strong **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second clause ("and his candle shall be put out with him") reiterates and amplifies the meaning of the first clause ("The light shall be dark in his tabernacle"), utilizing distinct but related imagery to convey the singular message of complete and utter destruction for the wicked.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Although Bildad's application of this principle to Job is ultimately revealed as flawed by the overarching narrative of the Book of Job, the verse itself articulates a fundamental biblical truth: unrepentant wickedness inevitably leads to ruin. It powerfully reflects the principle of sowing and reaping, where actions bear consequences, and a life lived in defiance of God's ways ultimately culminates in spiritual and often tangible darkness. However, the book's larger message serves to challenge the simplistic, mechanistic view of divine justice presented by Job's friends, demonstrating that God's ways are far more complex and His sovereignty extends beyond human understanding of direct cause and effect. Nevertheless, the imagery of light being extinguished serves as a potent and timeless warning against the path of unrighteousness, emphasizing that true and lasting light, vitality, and hope emanate solely from God.

* [Proverbs 13:9](/proverbs/13-9 "Proverbs 13:9 - The Light of the Righteous and the Lamp of the Wicked")
* [Psalm 73:17-19](/psalms/73-17-19 "Psalm 73:17-19 - The End of the Wicked")
* [Matthew 6:23](/matthew/6-23 "Matthew 6:23 - If the Light Within You Is Darkness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Job 18:6, despite its origin in a context of incomplete theology, conveys a profound spiritual warning that resonates deeply with believers today. It serves as a stark reminder that a life constructed upon unrighteousness, self-interest, or rebellion against God's revealed truth, regardless of its temporary outward prosperity, is inherently unsustainable. The "light" of such a life—its fleeting joy, superficial peace, misguided purpose, and fragile legacy—is intrinsically ephemeral and ultimately destined for darkness. True and enduring light, authentic vitality, and unwavering hope are not generated by human effort or worldly success but emanate solely from the eternal, uncreated light of God Himself. This verse compels us to critically examine the source of our own "light" and to prayerfully consider the ultimate trajectory of our lives. Are we building our existence upon a foundation that can withstand the extinguishing forces of sin and divine judgment, or are we clinging to a transient, self-made glow that will inevitably be snuffed out? Our choices today profoundly determine the nature and longevity of our "light" tomorrow.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "light" am I seeking to live by in my daily life? Is it a temporary, self-generated light, or the enduring, eternal light of God's truth and presence?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to believe that outward prosperity is always a definitive sign of divine favor, or that suffering is always a direct consequence of personal sin? How does the broader narrative of the Book of Job challenge and refine this simplistic view?**
* **What concrete steps can I take today to ensure that my "tabernacle" (my life, my home, my sphere of influence, and my legacy) is filled with the true, eternal light of Christ rather than the fading, deceptive light of the world?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean that all suffering is a direct result of personal sin?**

Answer: Not necessarily. While Bildad and Job's other friends vehemently advocated for this simplistic retribution theology, the overarching narrative of the Book of Job ultimately disproves its universal application. Job himself was a righteous man who endured immense suffering, not due to personal sin, but as part of a profound divine test and a demonstration of God's sovereign purposes. While the Bible certainly teaches that sin has consequences (e.g., [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")), Job 18:6 reflects a limited human understanding of God's complex and multifaceted ways. It serves as a general warning about the ultimate, spiritual fate of unrepentant wickedness, but it should not be applied mechanistically to every instance of human suffering. The book teaches us that God's justice and purposes are often far beyond our comprehension, and suffering can serve various divine purposes beyond mere punishment.

**What is the significance of "light" and "darkness" in this verse and the Bible generally?**

Answer: In Job 18:6, "light" profoundly symbolizes life, prosperity, joy, and the continuation of a legacy, while "darkness" represents ruin, despair, judgment, and the cessation of existence. This symbolism is pervasive and foundational throughout the entire biblical narrative. Light is consistently associated with God's presence, truth, righteousness, divine revelation, and salvation (e.g., [Psalm 112:4](/psalms/112-4 "Psalm 112:4 - Light for the Upright") or [John 1:5](/john/1-5 "John 1:5 - The Light Shines in the Darkness")). Darkness, conversely, represents sin, spiritual ignorance, evil, divine judgment, and spiritual death (e.g., [John 3:19](/john/3-19 "John 3:19 - Men Loved Darkness Instead of Light")). This profound contrast highlights the dramatic and ultimate reversal of fortune and destiny for those who choose a path apart from God, where their self-generated "light" is inevitably extinguished, leaving only spiritual darkness and eternal separation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Job 18:6 poignantly describes the extinguishing of the wicked's light, the ultimate and glorious fulfillment of the profound biblical theme of light and darkness is found preeminently in Jesus Christ. Humanity, having fallen into the profound darkness of sin and spiritual death, had its "candle put out" in a spiritual sense, alienated from the life-giving, illuminating presence of God. Yet, the ancient prophetic promise of a great light dawning on those who walked in the deepest darkness ([Isaiah 9:2](/isaiah/9-2 "Isaiah 9:2 - The People Who Walked in Darkness Have Seen a Great Light")) finds its complete and perfect realization in the person and work of Jesus. He Himself declared, "I am the [light of the world](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"). Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Unlike the fleeting, self-generated "light" of the wicked that is inevitably extinguished, Christ's light is eternal, unquenchable, and sovereign over all darkness ([John 1:5](/john/1-5 "John 1:5 - The Light Shines in the Darkness")). He came specifically to deliver us from the "domain of darkness" and miraculously transfer us into "the kingdom of his beloved Son" ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from the Domain of Darkness")). Through His perfect life, atoning sacrifice, and glorious resurrection, He decisively extinguished the power of sin and death, offering true, eternal, and lasting light to all who believe in Him, thereby ensuring that their "tabernacle"—their very being and eternal dwelling—will never again be dark, but will forever shine with the radiant glory of God ([Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - No Need for Sun or Moon")).

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

Revelation 18:23

And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived.

Psalms 18:28

For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.

Job 21:17

¶ How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and [how oft] cometh their destruction upon them! [God] distributeth sorrows in his anger.