And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually.

JOB 1:5KJV
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Job 1:5 (KJV)

What does Job 1:5 mean?

Job 1:5 describes how Job, after his children finished their feasting, would get up early and offer burnt offerings for each of them, thinking that perhaps they had sinned or cursed God in their hearts. Job did this regularly, showing his concern for their spiritual well-being even if any wrongdoing was only inward.

The verse is set in the opening of the book of Job, where Job is introduced as a wealthy and upright man. The focus here is on Job’s habit of interceding for his children after their gatherings, not because he knew of any specific sin, but out of caution and care. This detail highlights Job’s deep sense of responsibility and reverence toward God, as well as his desire to protect his family spiritually.

The Hebrew behind Job 1:5

  • "Sanctified" (קָדַשׁ, qadash): This word means to set apart or make holy. Job’s act of sanctifying his children likely involved ritual purification, emphasizing his desire for them to be spiritually clean.
  • "Cursed" (בָּרַךְ, barakh): Although this word usually means "to bless," in this context it is often understood as a euphemism for "curse," especially when paired with God. This shows Job’s concern for even hidden or unspoken offenses against God.
  • "Hearts" (לֵבָב, levav): The word refers to the inner self or thoughts. Job is worried not just about outward actions but about the inward attitudes of his children.
  • "Continually" (יָמִים, yamim): This word literally means "days," but here it stresses that Job’s practice was ongoing, not a one-time event.

Why Job 1:5 matters

  • Job 1:5 clarifies that Job’s righteousness was not just personal but extended to his family, showing his role as a spiritual leader in his household.
  • The verse emphasizes the seriousness with which Job regarded even the possibility of hidden sin, highlighting the importance of inward attitudes, not just outward behavior.
  • This verse sets the stage for the rest of the book by showing Job’s consistent devotion and carefulness, which becomes important as his character is tested in the chapters that follow.