Old Testament
Job 42:7
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After the LORD had spoken these words to Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, "My wrath is kindled against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.
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And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.
What Job 42:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God addresses Eliphaz and his two friends after Job has endured immense suffering and has been vindicated. God expresses His anger towards them because they misrepresented Him in their discussions with Job. While Job maintained his integrity and spoke truthfully about God, his friends accused him of wrongdoing and failed to understand God's nature. This moment highlights the importance of speaking truthfully about God and understanding His character. It serves as a reminder that our words about God should align with His truth, especially when discussing the suffering of others. God’s response emphasizes that He values honesty and righteousness in our speech, especially when we are representing Him to others. This passage also marks a turning point in the narrative, where God restores Job and rebukes those who have misjudged him, reinforcing the idea that God is just and will defend those who are faithful to Him.
How to apply Job 42:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of how we speak about God and others, especially in times of suffering. We should strive to represent God's character accurately and support those in distress with compassion and truth, rather than judgment.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Is Restored (Job 42:7–17)
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Job
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Job 42:7
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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 42:7 mean?
Job 42:7 means that God is angry with Eliphaz and his friends because they misrepresented Him in their conversations with Job. While Job spoke truthfully about God, his friends accused him of wrongdoing, failing to understand God's true nature.
What is the significance of God's wrath in Job 42:7?
God's wrath in Job 42:7 signifies His displeasure with those who misrepresent Him. It highlights the importance of speaking truthfully about God, especially when discussing the suffering of others.
What does Job 42:7 teach about friendship?
Job 42:7 teaches that true friendship involves supporting one another with honesty and understanding. Eliphaz and his friends failed in this regard by misjudging Job and misrepresenting God.
How does Job 42:7 relate to the theme of suffering?
Job 42:7 relates to suffering by illustrating how friends can sometimes misunderstand or misjudge those who are suffering. It emphasizes the need for compassion and truthfulness when discussing someone else's pain.
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