Old Testament
Job 36:6
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He does not preserve the life of the wicked, but gives right to the poor.
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He preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor.
What Job 36:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker emphasizes God's justice and moral order. It states that God does not protect or prolong the lives of the wicked, implying that those who act unjustly will ultimately face consequences. Instead, God ensures that the rights of the poor and oppressed are upheld. This reflects a divine commitment to justice, where the vulnerable are defended against exploitation. The contrast between the wicked and the poor highlights a key aspect of God's character: He is a protector of the downtrodden and a judge of the unrighteous. This verse serves as a reminder that while the wicked may seem to prosper temporarily, their fate is ultimately in God's hands, and justice will prevail. It encourages believers to trust in God's righteousness and to advocate for those who are marginalized, knowing that God values justice and equity.
How to apply Job 36:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand up for the rights of the poor and marginalized in our communities. We should trust that God sees injustice and will act accordingly. By advocating for those who cannot defend themselves, we align ourselves with God's values and demonstrate His love in action.
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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Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 36:6 mean?
Job 36:6 highlights God's justice by stating that He does not protect the wicked but ensures that the rights of the poor are upheld. This verse emphasizes that those who act unjustly will face consequences, while God defends the vulnerable.
What is the meaning of 'the wicked' in Job 36:6?
In Job 36:6, 'the wicked' refers to those who act unjustly and oppose God's moral order. The verse indicates that such individuals will not receive God's protection or favor.
How does Job 36:6 relate to social justice?
Job 36:6 relates to social justice by encouraging believers to advocate for the rights of the poor and marginalized, reflecting God's concern for justice and equity in society.
What themes are present in Job 36:6?
Key themes in Job 36:6 include divine justice, the protection of the poor, the consequences of wickedness, and God's righteousness, emphasizing His role as a defender of the vulnerable.
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