Old Testament
Job 31:40
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let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended.
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Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended.
What Job 31:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this final verse of Job's discourse, he uses a metaphor to express the consequences of his life choices and actions. By saying 'let thistles grow instead of wheat,' Job implies that if he has acted unjustly, he deserves to reap a harvest of suffering and hardship, symbolized by thorns and weeds rather than fruitful crops. This reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows. Job has defended his integrity throughout his speeches, and this statement serves as a conclusion to his arguments. He is essentially saying that if he has been guilty of wrongdoing, he accepts the consequences. The phrase 'the words of Job are ended' signifies the conclusion of his defense and the end of his lamentation, leaving the audience to ponder the weight of his words and the nature of his suffering.
How to apply Job 31:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their potential consequences. It reminds us that our choices can lead to either fruitful outcomes or painful repercussions. We should strive to live with integrity, knowing that our actions have lasting effects on our lives and the lives of others.
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: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Job 31:40
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Key themes
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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 31:40 mean?
Job 31:40 uses a metaphor to express the consequences of one's actions. Job implies that if he has acted unjustly, he deserves to suffer, symbolized by thistles instead of wheat.
What is the significance of 'thistles' and 'cockle' in Job 31:40?
In Job 31:40, 'thistles' and 'cockle' represent negative outcomes or suffering that result from poor choices. Job is stating that if he has done wrong, he accepts the consequences of a life filled with hardship.
How does Job 31:40 relate to the theme of integrity?
Job 31:40 highlights the importance of integrity by suggesting that one's actions will ultimately determine their fate. Job asserts that if he has lived righteously, he should expect a fruitful harvest, while acknowledging the possibility of suffering if he has not.
What can we learn from Job 31:40?
Job 31:40 teaches us to consider the impact of our choices and actions. It serves as a reminder that living with integrity can lead to positive outcomes, while wrongdoing may result in negative consequences.
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