“If I have rejoiced at the ruin of him who hated me, or exulted when evil overtook him
English Standard Version (ESV)
Job isn't just saying he didn't cause his enemy's downfall; he's highlighting that he didn't even find pleasure in their misfortune, even when they hated him. This goes beyond simply not seeking revenge, touching on a deep inner contentment that doesn't feed on another's suffering.
“If I have rejoiced at the ruin of him who hated me, or exulted when evil overtook him
English Standard Version (ESV)
Job is continuing his solemn oath and defense, detailing his integrity by recounting specific sins he has avoided. He moves from outward actions to inner attitudes, declaring he has never taken pleasure in the suffering of his enemies, nor gloated when misfortune struck them. This stands in contrast to common practices and expectations of the ancient world, highlighting Job's commitment to a higher standard of compassion.
Job is known for his suffering, but his defense reveals a life lived with remarkable integrity. He wasn't just avoiding obvious sins; he was policing his own heart.
Job's declaration in this verse pushes beyond what was considered acceptable, even by ancient standards. While many cultures might see exulting over an enemy's downfall as fair game, Job declares his innocence.
Not Just Actions, But Attitude
Job isn't just saying he didn't act to bring ruin upon his enemies. He's saying he didn't enjoy it when ruin came, even by other means. This goes deep into the heart's motives and affections.
What happens when an enemy stumbles? Does a hidden part of us feel a secret satisfaction? Job confronts this very temptation.
The phrase 'lifted up myself' (or 'stirred up myself') suggests more than just a passing thought. It points to an active, perhaps even proud, elation at seeing someone's misfortune.
The Inner Victory
This isn't about preventing an enemy's rise; it's about not celebrating their fall. Job’s integrity lies in his refusal to let his spirit swell with pride or glee when evil overtook someone, even someone who hated him.
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Understand the original words
'eyd · Hebrew Noun
A calamitous fall, destruction, or downfall, often used in scripture to describe the consequences of wickedness or divine judgment.
This proverb echoes Job's sentiment, directly stating that gloating over misfortune will not go unpunished, highlighting a consistent ethical principle against malicious joy.
Exodus 23:4This instruction from the Law shows that the principle of not rejoicing at an enemy's misfortune was an established command even in ancient Israel, predating Job's time and extending beyond personal conviction.
Matthew 5:44Jesus expands on this idea in the Sermon on the Mount, teaching believers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them, a radical fulfillment of the spirit Job expressed.
Romans 12:14Paul reinforces the New Testament ethic of responding to opposition with blessing rather than curses, directly contrasting the malicious exultation Job denounces.
Luke 6:37This passage from Luke, similar to Matthew, calls for mercy and forgiveness, urging believers not to judge or condemn others, which aligns with Job's refusal to find joy in an enemy's downfall.
clarkeJob 31:29: "If I rejoiced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lifted up myself when evil found him:"
If I rejoiced - I did not avenge myself on my enemy; and I neither bore malice nor hatred to him.
wesleyJob 31:29: "If I rejoiced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lifted up myself when evil found him:"
31:29 Lift up - Heb. stirred up myself to rejoice and insult over his misery.
Job isn't just saying he didn't cause his enemy's downfall; he's highlighting that he didn't even find pleasure in their misfortune, even when they hated him. This goes beyond simply not seeking revenge, touching on a deep inner contentment that doesn't feed on another's suffering.
Job is continuing his solemn oath and defense, detailing his integrity by recounting specific sins he has avoided. He moves from outward actions to inner attitudes, declaring he has never taken pleasure in the suffering of his enemies, nor gloated when misfortune struck them. This stands in contrast to common practices and expectations of the ancient world, highlighting Job's commitment to a higher standard of compassion.
Job is continuing his solemn oath and defense, detailing his integrity by recounting specific sins he has avoided. He moves from outward actions to inner attitudes, declaring he has never taken pleasure in the suffering of his enemies, nor gloated when misfortune struck them. This stands in contrast to common practices and expectations of the ancient world, highlighting Job's commitment to a higher standard of compassion.
"“If I have rejoiced at the ruin of him who hated me, or exulted when evil overtook him" — Job isn't just saying he didn't cause his enemy's downfall; he's highlighting that he didn't even find pleasure in their misfortune, even when they hated him. This goes beyond simply not seeking re…
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Last reviewed October 2026