After a brief introduction, in which he claims the right to reply, Job 21:1-6, Job brings forward a new argument. He affirms that his friends are wrong in assuming that the connection between sin and suffering is invariable. On the contrary, he urges that wicked men often spend their lives in prosperity, on the farm, in the fold, and in the home, Job 21:10-11. Sounds of joy issue from their dwellings, Job 21:12. They die without prolonged torture, Job 21:13. From the contention of his friends, Job turns to the passer-by for confirmation of his words. Surely, he says, it is a matter of common observation that some wicked men do prosper and die in peace, Job 21:29.
With Job's answer the second colloquy ends. His friends have gained nothing by their arguments, but Job has learned much by his afflictions. On the dark background of his night the Morning Star has actually begun to shine. He appeals to God with greater confidence and even finds refuge in Him; but so far, though arguing his case, he has preserved a humble and reverent attitude. [source]
Chapter Summary: Job 21
1Job shows that even in the judgment of man he has reason to be grieved 7Sometimes the wicked prosper, though they despise God 16Sometimes their destruction is manifest 21The happy and unhappy are alike in death 27The judgment of the wicked is in another world
What do the individual words in Job 21:4 mean?
[is] as for meagainst manmy complaintand if [it were]whynotshould be impatientI