Old Testament
Job 5:2
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For wrath kills the foolish man, and envy slays the simple one.
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For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.
What Job 5:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job's friend Eliphaz warns that anger and jealousy can lead to destruction. The 'foolish man' is someone who acts without wisdom, while the 'simple one' is easily led astray. Both emotions, wrath and envy, can consume a person, leading to their downfall. Eliphaz suggests that these negative feelings not only harm the individual but can also affect those around them. The verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing such emotions to take control, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and self-control in our lives. Instead of giving in to anger or jealousy, we should strive for understanding and compassion, which can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence. This teaching encourages us to reflect on our emotions and their potential consequences, urging us to seek a path of wisdom rather than folly.
How to apply Job 5:2 to your life
To avoid the pitfalls of anger and jealousy, practice mindfulness and self-reflection. When you feel these emotions rising, take a moment to pause and consider their impact on your life and relationships. Choose to respond with wisdom instead.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Eliphaz Speaks First (Job 4:1–5:27)
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Job
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Job 5:2
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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 5:2 mean?
Job 5:2 warns that anger and jealousy can lead to a person's downfall. It highlights how these negative emotions can destroy not only the individual but also impact those around them.
What is the meaning of 'wrath kills the foolish man' in Job 5:2?
The phrase 'wrath kills the foolish man' suggests that uncontrolled anger can lead to destructive actions and consequences for those who lack wisdom.
How can I apply Job 5:2 in my life?
To apply Job 5:2, practice mindfulness when feeling anger or jealousy. Take a moment to reflect on these emotions and choose to respond with wisdom instead.
What does 'envy slays the simple one' mean in Job 5:2?
The phrase 'envy slays the simple one' indicates that jealousy can lead to the downfall of those who are naive or easily influenced, emphasizing the need for self-control.
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