Old Testament

Job 1:10

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ClearClear Bible Translation

"Have you not put a hedge around him, and around his house, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land."

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KJVKing James Version

Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.

What Job 1:10 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Satan is speaking to God about Job, highlighting the protective measures God has placed around him. The 'hedge' symbolizes God's divine protection over Job, his family, and his possessions. This protection has allowed Job to prosper and succeed in all his endeavors. Satan suggests that Job's faithfulness is only due to the blessings and security he enjoys. The implication is that if these protections were removed, Job would not remain faithful. This verse illustrates the relationship between divine protection and human faithfulness, suggesting that blessings can sometimes lead to a test of true loyalty and devotion to God.

How to apply Job 1:10 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the blessings and protections in our lives as gifts from God. It reminds us to remain faithful, not just in times of abundance, but also during trials. Understanding that our faith can be tested helps us prepare for challenges ahead.

Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary

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A painting of Job lying face down on the ground in worship, his robe torn, as a messenger kneels beside him

Illustrated scene from Job's story: “The LORD Gave, and the LORD Hath Taken Away” (Job 1:6–22)

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Job

Walls uncovered by archaeologists on the mound of Tell es-Sultan, with palm trees in the distance.

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.

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Jericho

The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.

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At a Glance — the Book of Job

Author
Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
Written
Date debated
Genre
Wisdom literature
Original Audience
All who suffer or question God

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Job 1:10 mean?

Job 1:10 describes how Satan acknowledges God's protective 'hedge' around Job, his family, and his possessions. This protection symbolizes divine favor that allows Job to prosper, suggesting that his faithfulness may depend on these blessings.

What is the significance of the 'hedge' in Job 1:10?

The 'hedge' in Job 1:10 represents God's divine protection over Job and all that he possesses. It signifies the security and blessings that enable Job's success, highlighting the relationship between protection and faithfulness.

How does Job 1:10 relate to faithfulness?

Job 1:10 suggests that faithfulness can be influenced by the blessings and protections one receives from God. It raises the question of whether true loyalty remains when those blessings are challenged or removed.

What themes are present in Job 1:10?

Key themes in Job 1:10 include divine protection, faithfulness, the testing of faith, and the role of blessings in human loyalty. The verse also touches on Satan's accusations against Job's integrity.

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