Old Testament
Job 21:18
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They are as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carries away.
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They are as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carrieth away.
What Job 21:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 21:18, the imagery of stubble and chaff illustrates the fleeting nature of the wicked's existence. Stubble refers to the leftover stalks after harvest, while chaff is the husk that is blown away by the wind. Both represent something that is easily discarded and lacks substance. Job is expressing that the lives of the wicked, despite their apparent success, are ultimately insignificant and will be swept away like these worthless materials. This verse emphasizes the transient nature of their power and prosperity, suggesting that they will not endure in the face of divine justice. Job's assertion challenges the belief that the wicked always prosper, highlighting that their fate is to be forgotten and removed from the earth, much like the remnants of a harvest that are no longer needed.
How to apply Job 21:18 to your life
This verse reminds us to reflect on the true value of our lives and actions. Instead of pursuing temporary gains or status, we should focus on building a life of substance and integrity. Recognizing the fleeting nature of worldly success can inspire us to seek deeper, lasting fulfillment in our relationships and faith.
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 21:18
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 21:18 mean?
Job 21:18 uses the imagery of stubble and chaff to illustrate the fleeting nature of the wicked's existence. It suggests that despite their apparent success, their lives are ultimately insignificant and will be swept away like worthless materials.
What is the meaning of stubble in Job 21:18?
In Job 21:18, stubble refers to the leftover stalks after a harvest, symbolizing something that is easily discarded and lacks value. This imagery emphasizes the transient nature of the wicked's life.
What is the meaning of chaff in Job 21:18?
Chaff in Job 21:18 represents the husk that is blown away by the wind, illustrating the idea that the wicked's power and prosperity are temporary and will not endure.
How does Job 21:18 relate to divine justice?
Job 21:18 highlights the theme of divine justice by suggesting that the wicked, despite their temporary gains, will face judgment and be removed from the earth, reinforcing the idea that their lives lack lasting significance.
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