Job 21:6

When I remember, terror takes hold, and my body trembles in horror.

Study Bible

When I remember
The Hebrew root for "remember" is זָכַר (zakar), which implies more than just recalling past events; it involves a deep, meditative reflection. In the context of Job, this remembrance is not merely intellectual but deeply emotional and spiritual. Job is reflecting on the profound mysteries of suffering and divine justice. This act of remembering is a catalyst for his emotional response, indicating that the past experiences and observations of the world’s injustices weigh heavily on his heart and mind.

terror takes hold
The word "terror" comes from the Hebrew בִּינָה (bina), which can denote a profound fear or dread. This is not a fleeting fear but a gripping, overwhelming sense of dread that seizes Job. The phrase "takes hold" suggests an involuntary reaction, as if terror has a physical grip on him. This reflects the intensity of Job's emotional and spiritual turmoil as he grapples with the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, a theme that challenges his understanding of God's justice.

and my body trembles
The Hebrew word for "trembles" is רָגַז (ragaz), which conveys a physical shaking or quaking. This trembling is not just a metaphorical expression of fear but a literal, physical response to the terror that Job feels. It underscores the depth of his distress, affecting him not only mentally and emotionally but also physically. This reaction highlights the holistic nature of human suffering, where the spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects are interconnected.

in horror
The term "horror" is translated from the Hebrew בִּעֲתָה (bi'atah), which can mean a sudden, overwhelming fear or panic. This word choice emphasizes the extremity of Job's reaction to his reflections. The horror he experiences is not just a reaction to his personal suffering but also to the broader existential questions about the nature of justice and the character of God. In the conservative Christian perspective, this horror can be seen as a natural human response to the fallen world, where sin and suffering often seem to prevail, challenging believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and integrity who undergoes severe trials and suffering. In this chapter, Job is responding to his friends' arguments about the prosperity of the wicked.

2. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel. It serves as the setting for the events of the Book of Job.

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

4. God
The ultimate authority and sovereign being, whose justice and ways are questioned and explored throughout the Book of Job.

5. Suffering and Justice
Central themes in the Book of Job, exploring the reasons for human suffering and the nature of divine justice.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Fear and Trembling
Job's reaction of terror and trembling is a natural human response to the mysteries and perceived injustices of life. It is important to acknowledge our emotions and bring them before God in prayer.

Questioning and Faith
Job's questioning of God's justice does not indicate a lack of faith but rather a deep engagement with his faith. Believers are encouraged to bring their doubts and questions to God, trusting in His ultimate wisdom.

The Prosperity of the Wicked
Job's observation that the wicked often prosper challenges us to trust in God's ultimate justice, even when it is not immediately apparent. Our focus should remain on living righteously, regardless of worldly outcomes.

The Importance of Perspective
Job's experience reminds us that our understanding is limited. We are called to trust in God's greater perspective and plan, even when we cannot see the full picture.

Comfort in Community
While Job's friends initially fail to provide comfort, their presence highlights the importance of community in times of suffering. Believers should strive to support one another with empathy and understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's reaction in Job 21:6 reflect the human experience of grappling with fear and uncertainty? Can you relate to a time when you felt similarly?

2. In what ways does Job's questioning of God's justice challenge or strengthen your own faith? How can you apply this to your spiritual journey?

3. How do other scriptures, such as Psalm 73 and Ecclesiastes 8:14, help us understand the theme of the prosperity of the wicked? What lessons can we draw from these passages?

4. How can we maintain a godly perspective when faced with apparent injustices in the world? What practical steps can we take to trust in God's ultimate justice?

5. Reflect on the role of community in times of suffering. How can you be a source of comfort and support to others who are experiencing trials?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm also deals with the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, echoing Job's concerns about the apparent injustice in the world.

Ecclesiastes 8:14
Discusses the seeming futility and injustice in life, similar to Job's observations about the wicked prospering while the righteous suffer.

Habakkuk 1:13
The prophet Habakkuk questions why God allows the wicked to prosper, paralleling Job's struggle with understanding divine justice.