Job 1:1
There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Job's perfection wasn't about being flawless, but about a deep, sincere commitment to God and righteousness that permeated his whole life, setting him apart. This description, placed at the very beginning, highlights that his incredible trials weren't a result of hidden sin, but a testament to his character in God's eyes.
The book opens by introducing Job as a supremely righteous and wealthy man living in Uz. This detailed setup establishes his character and prosperity before the dramatic events unfold, showing that even such a life is not immune to devastating trials. Immediately following this description, the narrative shifts to the heavenly realm where Satan appears before God, setting the stage for the devastating tests Job will soon face.
Job is described as 'blameless and upright,' but also as one who 'feared God.' What's the difference, and why does it matter?
The verse doesn't just say Job was a good guy; it paints a richer picture.
More Than Just 'Not Bad'
The ancient commentators emphasize that 'perfect' and 'upright' here mean a sincere, wholehearted devotion, not absolute sinlessness. The 'fear of God' was the driving force behind his impeccable behavior.
Did you know Job's name might hint at the very struggles he would face? The meaning behind his name is striking.
The name 'Job' (Hebrew: Iyyov) is a fascinating clue within the text itself.
'Assaulted' or 'Enmity'
Scholars point to a likely root for his name that relates to being 'assaulted,' 'tried,' or even 'an enemy.'
Understand the original words
‘Ûts · Hebrew Proper Noun
A historical region mentioned in the Bible, likely located east of Israel/Canaan, often associated with Edomite or Arabian territories. Its location underscores Job’s status as a righteous figure outside the direct lineage of Abraham.
tām · Hebrew Adjective
Used to describe someone who is morally and ethically sound, not implying sinless perfection, but rather a life of integrity and sincere devotion to God. It suggests a person who is complete or sound in their character.
yāšār · Hebrew Adjective
Describes a person who is straight or righteous in their conduct before God and others; one who follows the path of divine justice and moral rectitude.
yārē’ · Hebrew Verb
This passage directly references Job as an example of righteousness alongside Noah and Daniel, underscoring the description of Job as blameless and upright.
James 5:11The New Testament author James points to Job as an example of perseverance and faithfulness in suffering, reinforcing the portrait of Job's God-fearing character established in the opening verse.
Genesis 6:9This verse describes Noah as 'blameless in his generation' and 'walking with God,' mirroring the qualities of being 'blameless and upright, one who feared God' attributed to Job.
Matthew 5:48Jesus calls his followers to be 'perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect,' setting a high standard of spiritual maturity and integrity that echoes the description of Job's character.
pooleJob 1:1: "There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil."
Job's country, and sincere holiness: his children; their feasts; and his religious care for them, Job 1:1-5 . Satan's appearance before God: God's character of Job, Job 1:6-8 . Satan imputeth Job's goodness to his prosperity; and so obtaineth leave to afflict him in his goods, Job 1:9-12 . Job's oxen, sheep, camels, and servants destroyed, Job 1:13-…
ellicottJob 1:1: "There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil."
(1) There was a man in the land of Uz. —The first mention of this name is in Genesis 10:23 , where Uz is said to have been one of the sons of Aram, who was one of the sons of Shem. (Comp. 1Chronicles 1:17 .) Another Uz (in the Authorised Version spelt Huz) is mentioned in Genesis 22:21 as the firstborn of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. A third form…
Job's perfection wasn't about being flawless, but about a deep, sincere commitment to God and righteousness that permeated his whole life, setting him apart. This description, placed at the very beginning, highlights that his incredible trials weren't a result of hidden sin, but a testament to his character in God's eyes.
The book opens by introducing Job as a supremely righteous and wealthy man living in Uz. This detailed setup establishes his character and prosperity before the dramatic events unfold, showing that even such a life is not immune to devastating trials. Immediately following this description, the narrative shifts to the heavenly realm where Satan appears before God, setting the stage for the devastating tests Job will soon face.
The book opens by introducing Job as a supremely righteous and wealthy man living in Uz. This detailed setup establishes his character and prosperity before the dramatic events unfold, showing that even such a life is not immune to devastating trials. Immediately following this description, the narrative shifts to the heavenly realm where Satan appears before God, setting the stage for the devastating tests Job will soon face.
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This isn't just a historical detail; it adds a layer of profound depth, suggesting that from the outset, Job's life was set on a path of severe testing, a path he would walk with remarkable integrity.
A reverential awe, respect, and deep-seated devotion toward the Creator that results in obedience. It is often described as the beginning of wisdom and the proper response to God’s holiness.
sûr · Hebrew Verb
To depart from or shun moral wickedness and rebellion against God’s revealed will. It characterizes a lifestyle that actively chooses holiness over sin.
"There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil." — Job's perfection wasn't about being flawless, but about a deep, sincere commitment to God and righteousness that permeated his whole life, setting him apart. This description, placed at the very begi…
