Job 31:9

If my heart has been enticed by my neighbor's wife, or I have lurked at his door,

Study Bible

If my heart has been enticed by my neighbor’s wife
This phrase reflects the moral and ethical standards upheld in the ancient Near Eastern context, where adultery was considered a serious offense. The heart being "enticed" suggests an internal struggle with temptation, emphasizing the importance of inner purity. This aligns with the teachings found in Proverbs 6:25, which warns against lusting after a neighbor's wife. The concept of the heart in biblical terms often refers to the center of one's will and emotions, indicating that sin begins internally before manifesting in actions. This phrase also echoes the commandment in Exodus 20:17, "You shall not covet your neighbor's wife," highlighting the continuity of moral law throughout Scripture.

or I have lurked at his door
The imagery of "lurking" suggests premeditated intent and deceitful behavior, contrasting with the uprightness Job claims throughout his defense. In ancient times, the act of lurking at someone's door would imply a breach of trust and respect within the community. This behavior is condemned in Proverbs 7:6-27, where the adulterous woman is described as waiting at her door to entice a young man. The cultural context underscores the importance of maintaining one's integrity and the severe social consequences of violating another's marriage. This phrase also serves as a type of Christ, who, unlike Job, was without sin and perfectly upheld the law, resisting all forms of temptation as seen in Matthew 4:1-11.

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, known for his suffering and his discourse on righteousness.

2. Neighbor's Wife
Represents the object of potential adultery, a common theme in biblical teachings on moral conduct.

3. Heart
In Hebrew, (lev), often signifies the inner self, including thoughts, emotions, and will. It is the seat of moral and spiritual life.

4. Enticement
The act of being lured or seduced into sin, particularly in the context of adultery.

5. Door
Symbolic of opportunity or temptation, often used metaphorically in scripture to represent the threshold of sin.

Teaching Points

Guarding the Heart
The heart is the source of our actions and thoughts. We must guard it against enticement and temptation, as Job exemplifies.

Moral Integrity
Job's commitment to purity and integrity serves as a model for maintaining moral standards, even in private thoughts.

Awareness of Temptation
Recognize and avoid situations that may lead to sin, much like Job's avoidance of lurking at his neighbor's door.

Self-Examination
Regularly examine your own heart and actions to ensure they align with God's commandments, as Job does in his discourse.

Consequences of Sin
Understand that sin, particularly adultery, has serious consequences, both spiritually and relationally.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's declaration in Job 31:9 reflect his understanding of sin and personal integrity?

2. In what ways can we guard our hearts against enticement in today's world, drawing from Job's example?

3. How does the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5:27-28 expand on the concept of adultery as seen in Job 31:9?

4. What practical steps can we take to avoid situations that may lead to temptation, similar to Job's avoidance of lurking at his neighbor's door?

5. How does the Tenth Commandment in Exodus 20:17 relate to Job's statement, and what does it teach us about coveting and contentment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 6:25-29
These verses warn against lusting after a neighbor's wife and describe the consequences of adultery, reinforcing the moral stance Job takes.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, teaching that even looking at someone lustfully is akin to committing adultery in the heart, which aligns with Job's self-examination.

Exodus 20:17
The Tenth Commandment prohibits coveting a neighbor's wife, directly relating to Job's declaration of innocence in this area.