Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
Job in this whole passage down to Job 21:21 quotes the assertion of the friends, as to the short continuance of the sinner's prosperity, not his own sentiments. In Job 21:22 he proceeds to refute them. "How oft is the candle" (lamp), etc., quoting Bildad's sentiment (Job 18:5-6), in order to question its truth (compare Matthew 25:8).
how oft—"God distributeth," etc. (alluding to Job 20:23, Job 20:29).
sorrows—UMBREIT translates "snares," literally, "cords," which lightning in its twining motion resembles (Psalms 11:6).
Other Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown entries containing Job 21:17:
Job 24:18-21
Job 27:11-23
Psalms 18:28
Isaiah 50:11
Jeremiah 25:10
DISCLAIMER: Church of the Great God (CGG) provides these resources to aid the individual in studying the Bible. However, it is up to the individual to "prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good" (I Thessalonians 5:21). The content of these resources does not necessarily reflect the views of CGG. They are provided for information purposes only.
Start Your Day with Scripture
Begin each morning with God's Word — the Berean delivers a daily verse and insightful commentary to spark reflection and growth.
Join 140,000+ fellow believers on this journey.
