This verse reminds readers that the path of the wicked leads to ruin and calls them to walk in truth.
“Will you keep to the ancient path
Which wicked men have trod?” (v.15)
In this passage, Eliphaz the Temanite (from the region of Edom), who lived around 2000-1800 BC, challenges Job with a probing question about whether he intends to follow the same corrupt ways once pursued by evildoers. The phrase ancient path likely hearkens back to a time of great moral corruption that brought about God’s severe judgment. Later in verse 16, Eliphaz refers to how wicked men were swiftly taken away by a flood, an allusion that some interpret as referencing the cataclysm in the days of Noah—reminding Job, and by extension modern readers, that deliberate rebellion against God has dire consequences.
This rhetorical challenge underscores the idea that there is nothing to gain from following the worn and destructive ways of ungodly individuals. Eliphaz hints that pride and disobedience led to these people’s downfall, much as Jesus later described in His references to the flood during His earthly ministry (Luke 17:26-27). By evoking the imagery of those who perished long ago, Eliphaz serves a stern warning against adopting a path of arrogance and wickedness, lest one share in the same fate.
Through his question, Eliphaz urges Job (and us) to choose wisdom by avoiding the legacy of sin and to instead trust in God’s righteousness. The sober message is clear: ignoring God’s moral design yields devastation, while repentance and humility foster hope for restoration. This central theme resonates throughout Scripture, pointing toward God’s grace and justice revealed in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21-24).
Set to dark mode
Job 22:15 meaning
“Will you keep to the ancient path
Which wicked men have trod?” (v.15)
In this passage, Eliphaz the Temanite (from the region of Edom), who lived around 2000-1800 BC, challenges Job with a probing question about whether he intends to follow the same corrupt ways once pursued by evildoers. The phrase ancient path likely hearkens back to a time of great moral corruption that brought about God’s severe judgment. Later in verse 16, Eliphaz refers to how wicked men were swiftly taken away by a flood, an allusion that some interpret as referencing the cataclysm in the days of Noah—reminding Job, and by extension modern readers, that deliberate rebellion against God has dire consequences.
This rhetorical challenge underscores the idea that there is nothing to gain from following the worn and destructive ways of ungodly individuals. Eliphaz hints that pride and disobedience led to these people’s downfall, much as Jesus later described in His references to the flood during His earthly ministry (Luke 17:26-27). By evoking the imagery of those who perished long ago, Eliphaz serves a stern warning against adopting a path of arrogance and wickedness, lest one share in the same fate.
Through his question, Eliphaz urges Job (and us) to choose wisdom by avoiding the legacy of sin and to instead trust in God’s righteousness. The sober message is clear: ignoring God’s moral design yields devastation, while repentance and humility foster hope for restoration. This central theme resonates throughout Scripture, pointing toward God’s grace and justice revealed in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21-24).