Old Testament

Job 18:8

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

"For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walks upon a snare."

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walketh upon a snare.

What Job 18:8 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Job's friend Bildad is describing the fate of the wicked. The imagery of being caught in a net suggests that those who do wrong will ultimately be trapped by their own actions. The phrase 'by his own feet' indicates that the person's own choices lead to their downfall. The 'snare' represents the dangers and consequences that come from living a life contrary to God's ways. Bildad is emphasizing that the wicked may think they are safe, but their own decisions will lead them into trouble. This serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and the importance of living righteously. The verse illustrates the idea that one’s own actions can lead to their destruction, highlighting the need for self-awareness and moral integrity. It reflects the broader theme of justice in the book of Job, where the fate of the righteous and the wicked is explored.

How to apply Job 18:8 to your life

This verse reminds us to be mindful of our choices and their potential consequences. By living with integrity and making wise decisions, we can avoid the traps that lead to our downfall. Reflect on your actions and ensure they align with your values and beliefs.

Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Job 18:8

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Job 18:8

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 18:8 mean?

Job 18:8 describes how the wicked are ensnared by their own actions. It illustrates that their choices lead to their downfall, emphasizing the consequences of living contrary to God's ways.

What is the meaning of 'cast into a net by his own feet' in Job 18:8?

The phrase 'cast into a net by his own feet' means that a person's own decisions and actions trap them. It highlights how individuals can be responsible for their own misfortunes.

How does Job 18:8 relate to the theme of justice?

Job 18:8 relates to the theme of justice by showing that the wicked will face the repercussions of their actions. It reinforces the idea that moral integrity is essential to avoid self-destruction.

What lessons can we learn from Job 18:8?

From Job 18:8, we learn the importance of being mindful of our choices and their consequences. It encourages us to live with integrity to avoid the traps that can lead to our downfall.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.