Old Testament
Job 21:17
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How often is the lamp of the wicked put out! And how often does their destruction come upon them! God distributes sorrows in his anger.
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How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in his anger.
What Job 21:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job reflects on the fate of the wicked, questioning how frequently their lives are filled with darkness and despair. The 'lamp' or 'candle' symbolizes their temporary success or joy, which can be extinguished at any moment. Job emphasizes that their destruction is not random but is a result of God's anger, who allows sorrows to befall them. This highlights the idea that while the wicked may seem to prosper for a time, their ultimate end is filled with suffering. Job's observations serve as a reminder that justice may not always be immediate, but it is inevitable. The verse encourages readers to consider the consequences of their actions and the reality of divine justice, suggesting that a life of wickedness leads to sorrow and destruction, while righteousness leads to lasting fulfillment.
How to apply Job 21:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the choices we make. It serves as a reminder that living a life contrary to God's ways may lead to temporary gains but ultimately results in sorrow. We should strive for righteousness and seek to align our actions with God's will to avoid the pitfalls of wickedness.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Job 21:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 21:17 mean?
Job 21:17 reflects on the fate of the wicked, suggesting that their temporary successes can quickly turn to despair. It emphasizes that their destruction is a result of God's anger, highlighting the inevitability of divine justice.
What is the meaning of 'lamp of the wicked' in Job 21:17?
The 'lamp of the wicked' symbolizes their fleeting joy or success, which can be extinguished at any moment. It illustrates how those who live unrighteously may experience temporary prosperity, but ultimately face sorrow.
How does Job 21:17 relate to divine justice?
Job 21:17 highlights that the suffering of the wicked is not random but a result of God's anger. It reinforces the idea that divine justice may not be immediate, but it is certain and will ultimately prevail.
What themes are present in Job 21:17?
Key themes in Job 21:17 include wickedness, divine justice, suffering, and the consequences of sin. The verse contrasts temporary success with the inevitable sorrow that follows a life of unrighteousness.
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