Job 31:1 (KJV)

What does Job 31:1 mean?

Job 31:1 describes Job declaring that he made a firm agreement with himself not to look at a young woman with lustful intent. Job is explaining that he set a personal boundary for his eyes and thoughts as part of his integrity.

In this verse, Job is speaking about his own conduct, defending himself before his friends who have accused him of wrongdoing. He uses the language of a "covenant" to show how seriously he took his commitment to purity, emphasizing that he chose not even to let his thoughts wander toward improper desires.

The Hebrew behind Job 31:1

• "made" (כָּרַת, karat): This word often means to "cut" or "make" in the sense of making a formal agreement or treaty, highlighting the seriousness of Job's decision.
• "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit): This is a strong word for an agreement or binding promise, often used for solemn commitments in the Hebrew Bible. Job is not just making a casual promise, but a binding, deliberate commitment.
• "think" (בִּין, bin): This word means to "consider" or "pay attention to," suggesting Job is talking about more than just a passing glance—he is guarding his thoughts and intentions.
• "maid" (בְּתוּלָה, betulah): This refers to a young, unmarried woman, which clarifies that Job is specifically talking about avoiding lustful thoughts toward women who are not his wife.

Why Job 31:1 matters

• Job 31:1 clarifies that Job’s righteousness was not just about outward actions, but also about his inner thoughts and intentions, showing a deep level of personal integrity.
• The verse helps clear up the misunderstanding that ancient moral standards only focused on external behavior; Job’s words show concern for purity of mind as well.
• This statement is part of Job’s larger defense, where he lists the ways he has lived uprightly, connecting his personal discipline to his overall claim of innocence in the face of suffering.