wickedרָשָׁע
rasha' · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
A term frequently used in Job and the Psalms to describe those who consciously or habitually violate God's moral order and reject His authority. It denotes a person whose life and character are contrary to the righteousness demanded by a holy God.
liveחָיָה
chayah · Hebrew Verb
A common biblical concept referring to both physical existence and the quality of life under God's blessing or judgment. In this context, it highlights the perceived longevity and prosperity of those who oppose God, posing a challenge to the traditional theology of retribution.
powerחַיִל
chayil · Hebrew Noun
This term denotes a state of strength, influence, or ability to exert force. In a biblical context, it often refers to the influence and material success that, in the eyes of the observer, may seem to indicate divine favor or human self-sufficiency.
offspringזֶרַע
zera' · Hebrew Noun
Refers to children or descendants. In the ancient Near Eastern worldview, offspring were considered a primary manifestation of divine blessing and a means of legacy; their success is here used to contrast with the suffering of the righteous.
rod of Godשֵׁבֶט
shevet Elohim · Hebrew Noun
Biblically, this is the sovereign act or presence of God as a judge or disciplinarian. It represents the active intervention of God to correct, judge, or humble human pride and disobedience.
fearפַּחַד
pachad · Hebrew Noun
In biblical literature, fear often denotes a reverential awe of God, but can also refer to the dread caused by impending judgment or divine wrath. Here, it suggests an absence of the sobering consequences or threats that usually accompany sinful living.
prosperityטוֹבָה
towbah · Hebrew Noun
The state of being successful, flourishing, or having abundance in earthly life; often viewed in the Old Testament as a sign of God's favor, though here used by Job to describe the wicked.
peaceשָׁלוֹם
shalom · Hebrew Noun
A state of wholeness, completeness, or well-being, often implying safety, health, and freedom from strife; here it contrasts with the expected divine judgment of the wicked.
Sheolשְׁאוֹל
Sheol · Hebrew Noun
The place of the dead or the abode of departed spirits in the Old Testament; it is the common destiny of all mankind regardless of their moral status on earth.
Departסוּר
sur · Hebrew Verb
To turn away or withdraw; in this context, it expresses a defiant rejection of God's presence and authority over one's life.
knowledgeדַּעַת
da'ath · Hebrew Noun
In a biblical context, knowledge is not merely intellectual information but a deep, experiential relationship and intimate acquaintance with God and His moral expectations.
Almightyשַׁדַּי
Shadday · Hebrew Noun
A title for God emphasizing His omnipotence, sovereign power, and sufficiency; He is the One who is all-mighty and able to perform His will.
serveעָבַד
abad · Hebrew Verb
To serve God is to acknowledge His lordship through worship, obedience, and submission; it is the act of living in accordance with His commands.
profitיָתַר
yathar · Hebrew Noun
An advantage, benefit, or gain; here, the wicked question the pragmatic value of maintaining a relationship with or seeking God.
prayפָּגַע
paga · Hebrew Verb
A form of communication with God involving adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication; it is an act of dependence on God’s grace and intervention.