Job 31:32

The stranger did not lodge in the street: [but] I opened my doors to the traveller.

The stranger {H1616} did not lodge {H3885} in the street {H2351}: but I opened {H6605} my doors {H1817} to the traveller {H734}.

No stranger had to sleep in the street; I kept my house open to the traveler.

but no stranger had to lodge on the street, for my door has been open to the traveler—

(The sojourner hath not lodged in the street; But I have opened my doors to the traveller);

Commentary

Commentary on Job 31:32

Job 31:32 (KJV): "The stranger did not lodge in the street: [but] I opened my doors to the traveller."

Context

Job 31 is a profound chapter in the Book of Job, serving as Job's final and most extensive defense against the accusations of his friends. In this powerful declaration, Job meticulously lists various aspects of his life where he maintained his integrity and righteousness, essentially swearing an oath before God that if he had committed any of these sins, he deserved the calamities that had befallen him. This particular verse highlights Job's commitment to hospitality and care for the vulnerable, a highly esteemed virtue in the ancient Near East. He asserts that he never allowed a stranger or traveller to be without shelter, but rather welcomed them into his own home.

Key Themes

  • Hospitality as a Moral Imperative: Job's statement underscores that providing shelter and care for those passing through was not merely an act of kindness but a fundamental moral and religious duty. In a time without public inns, travelers were entirely dependent on the generosity of householders.
  • Integrity and Righteousness: By highlighting his practice of hospitality, Job reinforces his claim of blamelessness and uprightness. His actions demonstrate a deep commitment to justice and compassion, reflecting his righteous character in the eyes of both God and man.
  • Compassion for the Vulnerable: The "stranger" and "traveller" were often the most vulnerable members of society, lacking local connections, resources, and protection. Job's open doors signify his concern for the marginalized and his practical expression of love for his neighbor, echoing broader biblical principles of caring for the sojourner.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "stranger" and "traveller," which refer to individuals who are not part of the immediate community or household. They are people passing through, often on a journey, and therefore without a place to stay. The phrase "did not lodge in the street" vividly paints a picture of the harsh reality faced by those without hospitality, emphasizing the critical need for shelter and the potential dangers of exposure. Job's action of "opening his doors" is a direct and personal act of welcome, signifying a genuine commitment to their welfare.

Practical Application

Job's example of hospitality remains profoundly relevant today. While modes of travel and lodging have changed, the spirit of welcoming the outsider, the vulnerable, and the newcomer endures. This verse challenges believers to:

  • Practice Compassion: Extend kindness and practical help to those in need, whether they are new to your community, facing hardship, or simply in need of a friendly face.
  • Embrace Inclusivity: Actively seek to include and welcome those who might otherwise feel marginalized or overlooked, reflecting the heart of Christ towards strangers.
  • Live with Integrity: Let your actions speak to your character, demonstrating genuine care for others as an outflow of your faith, just as Job's hospitality was a testament to his righteousness.

This verse is a timeless reminder that true righteousness is often expressed through tangible acts of love and generosity towards those in need.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 19:2 (5 votes)

    And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.

  • Genesis 19:3 (5 votes)

    And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.

  • Hebrews 13:2 (4 votes)

    Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

  • Judges 19:20 (4 votes)

    And the old man said, Peace [be] with thee; howsoever [let] all thy wants [lie] upon me; only lodge not in the street.

  • Judges 19:21 (4 votes)

    So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.

  • Romans 12:13 (3 votes)

    Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

  • 1 Peter 4:9 (3 votes)

    Use hospitality one to another without grudging.