Job 15:26

He runneth vpon him, euen on his necke, vpon the thicke bosses of his bucklers: Job 15:26 (KJV)

The Book of Job begins with a description of Job’s righteousness and his subsequent afflictions. Job’s friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, come to console him but eventually engage in a series of dialogues where they question and debate the reasons behind Job’s suffering.

Eliphaz’s argument: In his response to Job, Eliphaz suggests that the wicked face the judgment of God as a consequence of their actions. He portrays the image of an evil person being pursued by God, specifically emphasizing the punishment inflicted upon them. Eliphaz states: “For he stretcheth out his hand against God, and strengtheneth himself against the Almighty” (Job 15:26, KJV). This verse describes the wicked person’s defiance toward God rather than God actively pursuing them. The phrase indicates the arrogant posture of the wicked who challenge divine authority. The verse employs vivid imagery to depict God’s judgment on the wicked. While Eliphaz’s words reflect a common understanding of divine justice at that time, it is essential to note that his speeches and interpretations are later rebuked by God Himself (Job 42:7).

The book of Job ultimately highlights the mystery of suffering and challenges simplistic notions of cause and effect. In conclusion, Job 15:26, as part of Eliphaz’s speech, describes the wicked person’s rebellion against God, not God pursuing the wicked. It is important to consider the broader message of the Book of Job, which raises deeper questions about the nature of suffering and the limitations of human understanding in the face of God’s wisdom.