The verse emphasizes that no matter how strong or mighty one seems, a life without a sustaining source—in faith and in community—will eventually unravel.
Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job’s friends who lived during the patriarchal era (around 2000-1800 BC), proclaims a vivid image in “The lion perishes for lack of prey, And the whelps of the lioness are scattered” (v.11). The reference to lions in this passage suggests power, dominance, and strength. Yet Eliphaz observes that even the mighty can fail and be left vulnerable, hinting that human arrogance can lead to destruction when divorced from a dependence on God. From a broader perspective, this statement underscores the transient nature of earthly security—no matter how formidable one appears, lack of spiritual sustenance can be one’s undoing.
By invoking the lioness and her cubs, Eliphaz also offers a caution that what might seem secure in numbers can still be broken apart under hardship. Much like a ruler or family unit that appears robust, if the source of their prosperity is removed, they will invariably be scattered. This concept finds echoes in the New Testament, cautioning believers to remain vigilant and humble, for “your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour”.
The mention of Teman provides context for Eliphaz’s background. Teman was a region in Edom, southeast of the ancient land of Israel, known for its wise men (Jeremiah 49:7). Eliphaz, therefore, likely spoke from a tradition of wisdom and reflection. His words here propose that if even lions suffer ruin, then humans standing in rebellion or self-reliance can expect a similar downfall unless they submit to genuine faith in God’s sovereignty.
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Job 4:11 meaning
Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job’s friends who lived during the patriarchal era (around 2000-1800 BC), proclaims a vivid image in “The lion perishes for lack of prey, And the whelps of the lioness are scattered” (v.11). The reference to lions in this passage suggests power, dominance, and strength. Yet Eliphaz observes that even the mighty can fail and be left vulnerable, hinting that human arrogance can lead to destruction when divorced from a dependence on God. From a broader perspective, this statement underscores the transient nature of earthly security—no matter how formidable one appears, lack of spiritual sustenance can be one’s undoing.
By invoking the lioness and her cubs, Eliphaz also offers a caution that what might seem secure in numbers can still be broken apart under hardship. Much like a ruler or family unit that appears robust, if the source of their prosperity is removed, they will invariably be scattered. This concept finds echoes in the New Testament, cautioning believers to remain vigilant and humble, for “your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour”.
The mention of Teman provides context for Eliphaz’s background. Teman was a region in Edom, southeast of the ancient land of Israel, known for its wise men (Jeremiah 49:7). Eliphaz, therefore, likely spoke from a tradition of wisdom and reflection. His words here propose that if even lions suffer ruin, then humans standing in rebellion or self-reliance can expect a similar downfall unless they submit to genuine faith in God’s sovereignty.