Eliphaz’s accusation highlights the importance of compassionate action toward those who have no advocate.
Eliphaz the Temanite continues his charge against Job with the stark statement, “You have sent widows away empty, And the strength of the orphans has been crushed” (v.9). In the ancient world of the patriarchs (circa 2000-1800 BC), widows and orphans were some of the most vulnerable to exploitation, lacking both legal protection and a provider for daily sustenance. By suggesting that Job had turned them away, Eliphaz implies a grave sin—failing to show compassion to those in dire need.
The phrase “sent widows away empty” (v.9) indicates a refusal to meet the needs or defend the rights of these women who had no husband to provide for them. Scripture in many places upholds caring for widows and orphans as a reflection of righteousness, echoing concerns similar to Malachi 3:5, where neglecting them is portrayed as an offense to God Himself. Here, Eliphaz’s accusation challenges Job’s reputation for godliness, asserting that if Job truly were righteous, he would never have forsaken such a sacred duty of compassion.
Likewise, the phrase “the strength of the orphans has been crushed” (v.9) points to the orphans’ only hope for support being shattered. Even though Eliphaz’s speech might be rooted in a misunderstanding of Job’s situation, his words reveal a universal biblical principle: God cares deeply for the powerless, and He expects His people to act justly. The New Testament reiterates this in James 1:27, emphasizing the importance of supporting widows and orphans as an externally visible sign of inward faith.
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Job 22:9 meaning
Eliphaz the Temanite continues his charge against Job with the stark statement, “You have sent widows away empty, And the strength of the orphans has been crushed” (v.9). In the ancient world of the patriarchs (circa 2000-1800 BC), widows and orphans were some of the most vulnerable to exploitation, lacking both legal protection and a provider for daily sustenance. By suggesting that Job had turned them away, Eliphaz implies a grave sin—failing to show compassion to those in dire need.
The phrase “sent widows away empty” (v.9) indicates a refusal to meet the needs or defend the rights of these women who had no husband to provide for them. Scripture in many places upholds caring for widows and orphans as a reflection of righteousness, echoing concerns similar to Malachi 3:5, where neglecting them is portrayed as an offense to God Himself. Here, Eliphaz’s accusation challenges Job’s reputation for godliness, asserting that if Job truly were righteous, he would never have forsaken such a sacred duty of compassion.
Likewise, the phrase “the strength of the orphans has been crushed” (v.9) points to the orphans’ only hope for support being shattered. Even though Eliphaz’s speech might be rooted in a misunderstanding of Job’s situation, his words reveal a universal biblical principle: God cares deeply for the powerless, and He expects His people to act justly. The New Testament reiterates this in James 1:27, emphasizing the importance of supporting widows and orphans as an externally visible sign of inward faith.