Old Testament
Job 36:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But you have fulfilled the judgment of the wicked; judgment and justice take hold of you.
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But thou hast fulfilled the judgment of the wicked: judgment and justice take hold on thee.
What Job 36:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker is addressing someone who has acted unjustly, suggesting that they have meted out the same kind of judgment that is typically reserved for the wicked. The phrase 'judgment and justice take hold of you' implies that the consequences of their actions are now affecting them. This reflects a common theme in the Book of Job, where the nature of justice and suffering is explored. The speaker is highlighting the idea that one's actions have repercussions, and those who engage in wrongdoing will ultimately face the consequences of their choices. This serves as a reminder that justice is an integral part of the moral order, and those who stray from it will find themselves ensnared by their own deeds. The verse emphasizes the importance of living righteously and the inevitable return of justice to those who act unjustly.
How to apply Job 36:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their potential consequences. It serves as a reminder to strive for justice and righteousness in our lives, as our choices can lead to outcomes that affect not only ourselves but also those around us. Living justly can help us avoid the pitfalls of wickedness.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Elihu Speaks (Job 32:1–37:24)
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Job
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Job 36:17
Related Bible verses
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 36:17 mean?
Job 36:17 means that the speaker is addressing someone who has acted unjustly, indicating that they have brought upon themselves the same judgment that is usually reserved for the wicked. It highlights the idea that one's actions have consequences.
What is the meaning of 'judgment and justice take hold of you' in Job 36:17?
The phrase 'judgment and justice take hold of you' suggests that the consequences of one's unjust actions are now affecting them. It emphasizes that those who engage in wrongdoing will ultimately face repercussions.
How does Job 36:17 relate to the theme of justice?
Job 36:17 relates to the theme of justice by illustrating that justice is an integral part of the moral order, and those who stray from it will face the consequences of their choices.
What practical lesson can we learn from Job 36:17?
A practical lesson from Job 36:17 is to reflect on our actions and strive for justice and righteousness, as our choices can lead to outcomes that affect ourselves and others.
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