Job 31:13

Job 31:13 is part of Job's extensive defense of his integrity and righteousness before God and his three friends. In this chapter, Job lists various sins he has not committed, presenting a comprehensive picture of his blameless life and ethical conduct, particularly in his dealings with others and his stewardship of wealth and power.

Context

This verse comes from the culminating section of Job's final discourse (chapters 29-31), where he passionately asserts his innocence against the accusations of his friends. Having recounted his past prosperity and justice (chapter 29), and lamented his current suffering (chapter 30), Job now makes a series of solemn "if I did..." statements (an oath of purgation), invoking a curse upon himself if he were guilty of the specified offenses. Here, he addresses his treatment of servants, a critical indicator of a person's true character and piety in ancient societies. Job is emphatically stating that he never disregarded or dismissed the legitimate grievances of those under his authority, even his manservant or maidservant.

Key Themes

• Justice and Equity: Job emphasizes the principle of treating all individuals fairly, regardless of their social standing or position. His claim demonstrates a deep commitment to justice that extended even to the most vulnerable members of his household.
• Impartiality: The verse highlights the importance of impartiality, suggesting that justice should not be swayed by power dynamics or social hierarchy. Job was willing to hear out and address the complaints of those beneath him.
• Integrity of Character: This statement underscores Job's consistent ethical behavior. His righteousness was not merely outward show but deeply ingrained, reflecting a genuine concern for others' rights and dignity.
• Shared Humanity: Job's argument for fair treatment is rooted in the shared humanity of all people, as he elaborates just two verses later, asking, "Did not he that made me in the womb make him?" This foundational belief drives his equitable treatment.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "despise the cause" translates from the Hebrew ma'as mishpat (מָאַס מִשְׁפָּט), which means to reject, disdain, or spurn a judgment or a legal right. It implies more than just ignoring; it suggests an active dismissal or contempt for a legitimate complaint. The word "contended" (Hebrew: riv, רִיב) refers to a dispute, quarrel, or even a legal contest, indicating that the servants had actual grievances or claims against Job, which he was willing to hear and address fairly.

Practical Application

Job's example in this verse provides a powerful lesson for all times regarding the treatment of those in subordinate positions.

• Fair Labor Practices: It calls modern society to ensure just and fair treatment of employees, including fair wages, reasonable working conditions, and the right to voice grievances without fear of reprisal. This principle echoes throughout the Old Testament law, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 24:14, which warns against oppressing hired servants.
• Respect and Dignity: It emphasizes the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of their social or economic status. True righteousness, as Job demonstrates, involves recognizing the humanity and rights of all. The New Testament further reinforces this by admonishing masters to treat their servants justly and fairly, knowing they too have a Master in heaven (Ephesians 6:9).
• Accountability: For those in positions of leadership or authority, Job's statement serves as a reminder to be accountable for their actions and to be open to hearing and addressing the concerns of those they lead. It's a call to humility and empathy in leadership.

Job 31:13 challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions: Do we truly value justice for all, or do we "despise the cause" of those who may seem less powerful than ourselves?