Job 31:38 (KJV)

What does Job 31:38 mean?

Job 31:38 describes Job saying that if his land were to "cry against" him or its furrows "complain," it would be a sign that he had wronged others in how he used or acquired his property. Job is declaring his innocence by stating that even the land itself cannot accuse him of injustice or abuse.

In this verse, Job is speaking directly, defending his integrity before God and others. He is listing possible sins he might have committed, and in this case, he refers to the treatment of his land and, by extension, those who work it. The verse uses vivid language to picture the land and its furrows as if they could testify against him, showing how seriously Job takes his responsibility for justice and fairness.

The Hebrew behind Job 31:38

• land (אֲדָמָה, ʾădāmāh): This word means "ground" or "land," emphasizing the physical territory Job owns or manages. The use of this term highlights Job's concern not just for people, but for the very earth itself.
• cry (זָעַק, zāʿaq): This verb often means to "cry out" in distress or protest. Here, it suggests the idea of the land itself raising a complaint if it had been mistreated, which is a poetic way to stress Job's innocence.
• furrows (תַּלְמִיד, talmîd): This word refers to the plowed rows in a field. Mentioning the furrows "complaining" personifies the land further, showing Job's care for even the smallest details of his stewardship.
• complain (יָבַל, yābal): This verb can mean to "weep" or "mourn." The idea is that if the furrows could mourn or protest, it would indicate wrongdoing, but Job claims this is not the case.

Why Job 31:38 matters

• Job 31:38 shows how deeply Job values justice, extending his concern beyond people to the land itself, which was a key part of ancient life and livelihood.
• This verse helps clear up any misunderstanding that Job's defense is only about personal piety; instead, it includes social and environmental responsibility.
• The verse fits into Job's larger speech, where he lists possible sins and denies them, inviting God or anyone else to find fault if they can, which underscores his claim to integrity.