Job 31:38

if my land cries out against me and its furrows weep together,

Study Bible

If my land
The phrase "my land" refers to the property and territory that Job possesses. In the Hebrew context, land was not just a physical possession but a divine inheritance and a sign of God's blessing. The Hebrew word for land, "אֲדָמָה" (adamah), is deeply connected to the identity and livelihood of the people. It is reminiscent of the creation narrative where man is formed from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). Job's reference to "my land" underscores his stewardship and responsibility over what God has entrusted to him.

cries out against me
The imagery of the land crying out is powerful and evocative. In Hebrew, the word "צָעַק" (tsa'aq) means to cry out or call for help. This anthropomorphic expression suggests that the land itself is a witness to Job's actions and can testify against him if he has wronged it. This concept is rooted in the idea that creation itself is aware of and responsive to human morality and justice, as seen in Genesis 4:10, where Abel's blood cries out from the ground. Job is asserting his innocence by stating that even his land has no accusation against him.

and its furrows
The term "furrows" refers to the plowed lines in a field, which are essential for planting crops. The Hebrew word "תְּלָמִים" (telamim) indicates the ridges or rows created by a plow. This agricultural imagery highlights the intimate relationship between the farmer and the land. In ancient times, the condition of the furrows was a direct reflection of the farmer's diligence and care. Job is emphasizing that he has not neglected or abused his land, which would be evident in the state of the furrows.

weep together
The phrase "weep together" uses the Hebrew word "בָּכָה" (bakah), meaning to weep or lament. This personification of the furrows weeping suggests a deep sense of sorrow or distress. In the biblical context, weeping often accompanies mourning or injustice. Job is poetically asserting that if there were any wrongdoing on his part, the very earth would join in lamentation. This reflects the biblical principle that all creation groans under the weight of sin and injustice (Romans 8:22). Job's declaration is a testament to his integrity, as he claims that even the land he tills would not find fault with him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man described as blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil. In this chapter, Job is making his final defense, asserting his integrity and righteousness.

2. Land
Represents Job's property and livelihood. In ancient times, land was a significant part of one's wealth and sustenance, and it was believed to have a voice in matters of justice and righteousness.

3. Furrows
The trenches made in the soil by a plow. They symbolize the productivity and fruitfulness of the land, as well as the labor invested in it.

4. Cry/Weep
These terms are personifications of the land and its furrows, suggesting that they could testify against Job if he had wronged them.

5. God
The ultimate judge to whom Job is appealing, asserting that he has not committed any injustice that would cause his land to cry out against him.

Teaching Points

Stewardship of Creation
As stewards of God's creation, we are responsible for treating the land and environment with respect and justice. Job's assertion that his land does not cry out against him challenges us to consider how we care for the earth.

Integrity in All Areas of Life
Job's defense of his integrity extends to how he manages his property. This teaches us that righteousness should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our business dealings and environmental practices.

The Witness of Creation
The idea that the land can testify against us serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences beyond what we might immediately see. We should live in a way that even the earth would testify to our righteousness.

Accountability Before God
Ultimately, we are accountable to God for how we live and manage the resources He has entrusted to us. Job's appeal to God as his judge encourages us to live with an awareness of divine accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's claim about his land not crying out against him challenge our modern understanding of environmental stewardship?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our actions reflect integrity in both our personal and professional lives?

3. How does the concept of creation bearing witness to human actions influence your perspective on environmental issues?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that you are a good steward of the resources God has entrusted to you?

5. How can the idea of being accountable to God for all aspects of our lives, including how we treat the environment, impact our daily decisions and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:10
The blood of Abel crying out from the ground parallels the idea of the land having a voice in matters of justice.

Leviticus 25:23-24
The land belongs to God, and humans are merely stewards, emphasizing the responsibility to treat it justly.

Romans 8:22
The creation groaning in anticipation of redemption connects to the idea of the land expressing distress due to human sin.