Old Testament
Job 38:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And from the wicked their light is withheld, and the high arm shall be broken.
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And from the wicked their light is withholden, and the high arm shall be broken.
What Job 38:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking about the consequences faced by the wicked. The 'light' symbolizes understanding, guidance, and favor from God, which is taken away from those who do wrong. The phrase 'high arm' refers to the strength and power of the wicked, which will ultimately be broken. This suggests that no matter how powerful or influential the wicked may seem, their strength is temporary and will be diminished by divine justice. The verse emphasizes that God is in control and will ensure that righteousness prevails over wickedness. It serves as a reminder that those who oppose God's ways will face consequences, while those who seek righteousness will find light and guidance. This passage encourages believers to trust in God's justice and to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that ultimately, good will triumph over evil.
How to apply Job 38:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their consequences. It reminds us that living righteously brings light and guidance, while wickedness leads to darkness and brokenness. We should strive to align our lives with God's principles, trusting that He will uphold justice in our lives and the world around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Out of the Whirlwind (Job 38:1–41:34)
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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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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Job 38:15
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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 38:15 mean?
Job 38:15 speaks about the consequences of wickedness, indicating that those who do wrong will lose understanding and guidance from God, symbolized by 'light'. It also suggests that their strength, referred to as the 'high arm', will ultimately be broken by divine justice.
What is the meaning of 'light' in Job 38:15?
In Job 38:15, 'light' symbolizes understanding, guidance, and favor from God. The verse indicates that the wicked will have this light withheld from them as a consequence of their actions.
What does 'high arm' refer to in Job 38:15?
The 'high arm' in Job 38:15 refers to the strength and power of the wicked. The verse suggests that despite their apparent might, this strength will be broken by God's justice.
How can Job 38:15 apply to my life?
Job 38:15 encourages individuals to reflect on their actions and the potential consequences of wickedness. It serves as a reminder to live righteously, trusting that God will uphold justice in our lives.
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