Job 40:12

Job 40:12 Meaning and Explanation

Look on every one that is proud, and bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.

King James Version (KJV)

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God repeats the challenge, calling Job to abase the proud and trample the wicked where they stand, if he is able.

What Does Job 40:12 Mean?

The thought of the previous verse is pressed home with fresh force: look upon the proud, bring them low, tread down the wicked on the very spot where they stand. The repetition underlines how far such power lies beyond any human hand. Only the Maker can survey all hearts and render to each its due.

There is mercy hidden in this severity. A world where pride and wickedness went forever unchecked would be unbearable; that God will one day humble every arrogant heart is good news for the oppressed. We are not the world's judge, and that is a relief. We may entrust the wicked, and our own grievances, to the One whose justice is sure, and so be freed to love rather than to retaliate.

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What does Job 40:12 mean?

God repeats the challenge, calling Job to abase the proud and trample the wicked where they stand, if he is able.

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