Old Testament
Job 27:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
he may prepare it, but the just will put it on, and the innocent will divide the silver.
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He may prepare it, but the just shall put it on, and the innocent shall divide the silver.
What Job 27:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job is expressing a profound truth about justice and righteousness. He suggests that while the wicked may attempt to prepare or gather wealth and resources for themselves, it is ultimately the just and innocent who will benefit from it. The imagery of putting on and dividing silver symbolizes the rightful ownership and distribution of wealth. Job emphasizes that despite the apparent success of the unjust, their efforts will not prevail in the end. Instead, those who live righteously will receive what is rightfully theirs. This reflects a broader theme in the book of Job, where the fate of the righteous and the wicked is explored, highlighting the ultimate justice of God. Job's assertion serves as a reminder that true justice will prevail, and the innocent will be rewarded, even if it seems delayed in the present moment.
How to apply Job 27:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's justice, especially when we see the wicked prospering. It reminds us to focus on living righteously and to have faith that our integrity will ultimately lead to blessings. We should not envy the success of the unjust but remain steadfast in our values.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)
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Job
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Job 27:17
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 27:17 mean?
Job 27:17 conveys that while the wicked may accumulate wealth, it is ultimately the righteous and innocent who will benefit from it. This verse emphasizes that true justice will prevail, and those who live righteously will receive their rightful rewards.
What is the meaning of 'the just shall put it on' in Job 27:17?
In Job 27:17, 'the just shall put it on' means that the righteous will take possession of the wealth that the wicked have prepared. It symbolizes the rightful ownership of resources that belong to those who act with integrity.
How does Job 27:17 relate to the theme of justice?
Job 27:17 highlights the theme of justice by asserting that the efforts of the wicked will not succeed in the long run. It reassures that the righteous will be rewarded, reinforcing the idea that true justice will be served.
What can we learn from Job 27:17?
From Job 27:17, we learn to trust in God's justice and focus on living righteously. It encourages us not to envy the success of the wicked, as their gains are temporary and the innocent will ultimately prevail.
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