Job 31 29

Job 31:29 kjv

If I rejoice at the destruction of him that hated me, or lifted up myself when evil found him:

Job 31:29 nkjv

"If I have rejoiced at the destruction of him who hated me, Or lifted myself up when evil found him

Job 31:29 niv

"If I have rejoiced at my enemy's misfortune or gloated over the trouble that came to him?

Job 31:29 esv

"If I have rejoiced at the ruin of him who hated me, or exulted when evil overtook him

Job 31:29 nlt

"Have I ever rejoiced when disaster struck my enemies,
or become excited when harm came their way?

Job 31 verses

Job 31 29 Meaning

Job 31:29 asserts Job's innocence by stating that he has never rejoiced at the misfortune or destruction of those who hated him, nor has he openly exulted when calamity befell them. This declaration is part of his elaborate oath of integrity, where he defends his character and actions before God, presenting it as evidence of his righteousness. He denies the sin of schadenfreude, a common human failing, demonstrating a profound level of ethical purity and compassion even towards adversaries.

Job 31 29 Context

Job chapter 31 represents Job's ultimate declaration of innocence and integrity before God and his accusers. It is a powerful, extended oath where Job systematically denies various sins—sexual immorality, injustice, oppression of the poor, reliance on wealth, and finally, lack of compassion. Verse 29 is part of this climactic defense, where Job challenges God to find any fault in his conduct by presenting himself as morally impeccable in several aspects, including his internal attitudes and external reactions. He essentially says, "If I have ever done any of these things, then let consequences befall me," laying his very life and righteousness on the line. This specific verse demonstrates the profound ethical depth of Job's character, highlighting his detachment from malicious joy even towards those who sought his harm, a high moral standard that transcends mere external observance.

Job 31 29 Word analysis

• If: Hebrew im (אִם). This word introduces a conditional clause, part of a solemn oath. In the context of Job 31, it signals a strong self-imprecation: "If I have done X, then may Y befall me." Job uses this structure throughout the chapter to invite divine judgment if he speaks falsely, asserting his confidence in his innocence.
• I have rejoiced: Hebrew śāmaḥ (שָׂמַח). This verb signifies internal joy, delight, or pleasure. Its inclusion highlights that Job is not merely denying an outward act but an inner malicious emotion. He asserts that he has not harbored secret pleasure in the misfortune of his foes.
• at the destruction: Hebrew 'ēyd (אֵיד). This term refers to calamity, disaster, ruin, or misfortune. It often carries connotations of a sudden, overwhelming catastrophe, sometimes implying a judgment. Job denies taking delight in any severe suffering that might befall his enemies.
• of him that hated me: This phrase specifies the target of the potential rejoicing – not just any person's downfall, but specifically that of an adversary. This makes Job's denial even more impactful, as it is a common human temptation to feel satisfaction when an enemy suffers. It underscores the extraordinary level of Job's moral rectitude.
• or lifted up myself: Hebrew rônan (רֹנַן). This verb implies a public, active display of triumph or exultation, often involving shouts of joy. It serves as a strong complement to śāmaḥ, moving from internal emotion to outward expression. Job denies both the internal feeling and the external manifestation of triumph over his enemy's plight.
• when evil found him: Hebrew ra' (רַע). While 'ēyd suggests ruin, ra' is broader, meaning trouble, calamity, or adversity. The phrase "found him" indicates that the evil unexpectedly befell the person, often implying divine or fated misfortune. This means Job did not gloat when suffering, perhaps seen as divine retribution, came upon his enemies.

Job 31 29 Bonus section

This verse highlights the pre-Mosaic development of a sophisticated ethical framework in the Near East, specifically as evidenced by Job. His commitment to pure-heartedness aligns more closely with the ethics of prophetic literature and even the teachings of Christ, rather than solely retributive justice. The comprehensive nature of Job's denial—covering both internal (rejoicing/joy) and external (lifting up oneself/triumph) responses, and specific to the precise moment of their destruction or when evil "found them"—emphasizes a detailed and deeply reflective self-assessment. It demonstrates that Job understood that true righteousness involved a refusal to participate in the suffering of others, even enemies, either in thought or deed, echoing the very character of a compassionate God.

Job 31 29 Commentary

Job 31:29 encapsulates Job's exceptionally high moral standard, demonstrating an advanced ethical understanding for his time. He goes beyond external compliance with societal or legal codes to examine his heart and inner motivations. His denial of schadenfreude—rejoicing at the misfortune of an adversary—is a testament to profound compassion and spiritual maturity. This virtue stands in stark contrast to human nature and even certain practices in the ancient world, foreshadowing later biblical teachings found in Proverbs and the New Testament which emphasize love and mercy towards enemies. Job's assertion reflects a character profoundly shaped by empathy, embodying righteousness not just in deed, but in genuine sentiment, and choosing to align himself with divine justice rather than personal vengeance. This verse serves as a powerful call to personal integrity that encompasses both thoughts and actions.

• Example: When someone who has actively harmed us faces a public failure or loss, our first human impulse might be satisfaction. Job declares that he actively suppresses or refrains from such a reaction, whether a private thought of satisfaction or an open display of triumph. This is the moral high ground Job claimed to hold.