Job 31:11

For this [is] an heinous crime; yea, it [is] an iniquity [to be punished by] the judges.

For this is an heinous crime {H2154}; yea, it is an iniquity {H5771} to be punished by the judges {H6414}.

For that would be a heinous act, a criminal offense,

For that would be a heinous crime, an iniquity to be judged.

For that were a heinous crime; Yea, it were an iniquity to be punished by the judges:

Commentary

In Job 31:11, Job continues his passionate and comprehensive defense against the unspoken accusations of his friends, asserting his moral integrity before God. This verse specifically addresses the sin of adultery, which he has just referenced in the preceding verses (Job 31:9-10).

Context

Chapter 31 is a powerful culmination of Job's self-vindication, often referred to as his "oath of innocence" or "negative confession." He systematically lists various potential sins, pledging that he has committed none of them. His defense covers a wide range of moral and ethical issues, from lust and injustice to pride and neglect of the poor. Here, he declares that engaging in adultery (the "this" in the verse) is not merely a personal failing but a grave offense with significant consequences in both God's eyes and human society. He emphasizes that such an act is a "heinous crime" and "an iniquity to be punished by the judges," highlighting its severe societal and legal implications in the ancient world.

Key Themes

  • Sexual Purity and Fidelity: Job's strong stance against adultery underscores the high value placed on marital faithfulness and sexual purity in biblical ethics. It speaks to the sanctity of marriage as an institution.
  • Gravity of Sin: The terms "heinous crime" and "iniquity" emphasize the profound seriousness with which adultery was viewed. It was not a light matter but a destructive act with far-reaching consequences.
  • Justice and Accountability: The phrase "to be punished by the judges" indicates that adultery was a capital offense under the Mosaic Law, demonstrating that certain sins have not only spiritual but also legal and societal repercussions. The prescribed penalty for adultery was death.
  • Integrity: Job's declaration is part of his broader argument that he has lived a life of integrity, resisting temptation and upholding moral standards even in secret.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term translated "heinous crime" is zimmah (ื–ึดืžึธึผื”), which often carries the connotation of a "wicked scheme" or "moral depravity." It suggests not just a momentary lapse but a deeply corrupt or perverse intention, underscoring the premeditated or inherently evil nature of the act. The term "iniquity" (avon, ืขึธื•ึนืŸ) refers to guilt, punishment for sin, or the sin itself. The mention of "judges" indicates that this was an offense subject to civil legal proceedings, not just a private moral failing.

Related Scriptures

Practical Application

Job's declaration remains highly relevant today. It reminds us of the enduring biblical standard for sexual purity and marital fidelity. The seriousness with which God views adultery calls believers to guard their hearts and eyes, recognizing that sin often begins with a thought or desire (James 1:14-15). This verse encourages a commitment to integrity not just in outward actions but also in inward intentions, knowing that God sees all things.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 20:10 (6 votes)

    ยถ And the man that committeth adultery with [another] man's wife, [even he] that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

  • Job 31:28 (4 votes)

    This also [were] an iniquity [to be punished by] the judge: for I should have denied the God [that is] above.

  • Deuteronomy 22:22 (4 votes)

    If a man be found lying with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them die, [both] the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away evil from Israel.

  • Deuteronomy 22:24 (4 votes)

    Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them with stones that they die; the damsel, because she cried not, [being] in the city; and the man, because he hath humbled his neighbour's wife: so thou shalt put away evil from among you.

  • Genesis 38:24 (3 votes)

    ยถ And it came to pass about three months after, that it was told Judah, saying, Tamar thy daughter in law hath played the harlot; and also, behold, she [is] with child by whoredom. And Judah said, Bring her forth, and let her be burnt.

  • Ezekiel 16:38 (2 votes)

    And I will judge thee, as women that break wedlock and shed blood are judged; and I will give thee blood in fury and jealousy.

  • Genesis 26:10 (2 votes)

    And Abimelech said, What [is] this thou hast done unto us? one of the people might lightly have lien with thy wife, and thou shouldest have brought guiltiness upon us.