Job 21:24

His body is well nourished, and his bones are rich with marrow.

Study Bible

His body
The Hebrew word for "body" here is "בְּשָׂרוֹ" (besaro), which can also be translated as "flesh." In the context of the ancient Near East, a well-nourished body was a sign of prosperity and divine favor. This phrase suggests a state of physical health and abundance, which was often seen as a blessing from God. In the broader narrative of Job, this description contrasts with Job's own suffering and challenges the simplistic view that prosperity is always a sign of righteousness.

is well nourished
The phrase "well nourished" comes from the Hebrew "מָלֵא" (male), meaning "full" or "satisfied." This implies not just physical fullness but a state of contentment and sufficiency. In biblical times, being well-fed was a significant indicator of wealth and stability, as food scarcity was common. This phrase highlights the apparent paradox of the wicked prospering while the righteous suffer, a central theme in the Book of Job.

and his bones
The Hebrew word for "bones" is "עֲצָמוֹתָיו" (atzamotav). In biblical literature, bones often symbolize strength and vitality. They are the framework of the body, representing the inner strength and endurance of a person. The mention of bones here emphasizes the deep-seated health and vigor of the individual being described, further underscoring the perplexing prosperity of the wicked.

are rich with marrow
The term "rich with marrow" translates from the Hebrew "יְשֻׁקּוּ בַּחֵלֶב" (yeshuku bachelev), where "חֵלֶב" (chelev) means "fat" or "richness." Marrow is the innermost part of the bone, and its richness signifies not just physical health but an abundance of life and vitality. In the ancient world, marrow was considered a delicacy and a source of strength. This imagery of richness and abundance serves to highlight the seeming injustice of the wicked thriving while the righteous, like Job, endure suffering.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, experiencing intense suffering and questioning the justice of God.

2. Friends of Job
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel and explanations for his suffering, often attributing it to sin or lack of righteousness.

3. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

4. God
The sovereign Creator who allows Job's testing and ultimately restores him, demonstrating His wisdom and justice.

5. Satan
The adversary who challenges Job's integrity, suggesting that Job is faithful only because of his prosperity.

Teaching Points

The Illusion of Prosperity
Job observes that the wicked often appear prosperous and healthy, challenging the simplistic view that prosperity is a sign of God's favor.

The Complexity of God's Justice
God's justice is not always immediately apparent. Job's discourse invites believers to trust in God's ultimate wisdom and justice, even when circumstances seem unfair.

The Importance of Spiritual Health
While physical health and prosperity are visible, spiritual health is paramount. Believers are encouraged to focus on their relationship with God, which sustains them through trials.

Contentment in All Circumstances
Job's reflections encourage believers to find contentment and trust in God, regardless of their material or physical state.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 21:24 challenge the notion that prosperity is always a sign of God's blessing?

2. In what ways can the prosperity of the wicked be a stumbling block to believers, and how can we guard against this?

3. How does Job's perspective in this verse relate to the teachings of Jesus about storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth?

4. What can we learn from Job about maintaining faith and integrity in the face of apparent injustice or suffering?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Job 21:24 to our understanding of health and prosperity in the context of our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm reflects on the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous, similar to Job's observations about the apparent ease of the wicked.

Ecclesiastes 8:14
Discusses the seeming injustice in the world where the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper, echoing Job's lament.

Proverbs 3:7-8
Speaks of fearing the Lord and shunning evil, which brings health to the body and nourishment to the bones, contrasting with Job's experience.