Context / meaning
Job 42 [10.] Yahweh turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends. Yahweh gave Job twice as much as he had before. Then came there to him all his brothers, and all his sisters, and all those who had been of his acquaintance before, and ate bread with him in his house. They comforted him, and consoled him concerning all the evil that Yahweh had brought on him. Everyone also gave him a piece of money,[a] and everyone a ring of gold.
Job 42 [12.] So Yahweh blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, one thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand female donkeys. He had also seven sons and three daughters. He called the name of the first, Jemimah; and the name of the second, Keziah; and the name of the third, Keren Happuch. In all the land were no women found so beautiful as the daughters of Job. Their father gave them an inheritance among their brothers. After this Job lived one hundred forty years, and saw his sons, and his sons’ sons, to four generations. So Job died, being old and full of days.
Footnotes:
a. Job 42:11 literally, kesitah, a unit of money, probably silver.
Meaning
This verse is found in the concluding portion of the book of Job, after Job's suffering and subsequent restoration. It provides insight into the new blessings and restoration that Job receives from God, particularly concerning his daughters.
The verse begins by praising the beauty of Job's daughters, stating that "no women were found so beautiful as the daughters of Job." While the focus on physical beauty may be seen as a cultural reflection of the time, it also serves to highlight the significance and value of Job's daughters within the narrative. It suggests that they possessed exceptional beauty, which was noteworthy in the context of the story.
The second part of the verse states that "their father gave them an inheritance among their brothers." This statement is remarkable because it deviates from the typical inheritance practices of ancient Near Eastern societies, where inheritance rights were predominantly reserved for male heirs. Here, Job intentionally grants his daughters an inheritance, placing them on equal footing with their brothers. This action challenges the prevailing cultural norms of the time and emphasizes the importance of female equality and empowerment.
In the broader context of the book of Job, where Job endures immense suffering and wrestles with profound questions of God's justice, this verse highlights the significance of the restoration and blessing that Job receives. It affirms the value and dignity of his daughters and their equal entitlement to the inheritance alongside their brothers.
Job 42:15 is significant in challenging traditional patriarchal structures that limited women's rights and opportunities. In ancient societies, including the one in which Job lived, women were often marginalized and had limited agency in matters of inheritance, property ownership, and decision-making. However, Job's deliberate action of granting his daughters an inheritance disrupts this pattern, asserting the equality and worth of his daughters.
This verse affirms the inherent value and potential of women, recognizing their capacity to participate fully in family life, inheritance, and decision-making processes. It stands as a reminder that God's design for His creation includes equal dignity and worth for both men and women.
The inclusion of this verse in the biblical narrative is significant as it challenges cultural norms and serves as a testament to the inclusive and egalitarian vision of God. It highlights God's desire for gender equality, where women are recognized and affirmed in their unique contributions and abilities.
Throughout the Bible, we find instances where God affirms the worth and significance of women, elevating them beyond the societal expectations and limitations of their time. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, women play vital roles in God's redemptive plan, demonstrating their intellectual, spiritual, and leadership capabilities.
Job 42:15 invites us to reflect on the importance of empowering women, recognizing their inherent worth, and providing them with equal opportunities and rights. It challenges us to break free from societal expectations and cultural biases that limit women's roles and contributions. In doing so, we create an environment where women can flourish, utilize their God-given gifts, and make significant contributions to their families, communities, and the Kingdom of God.
In conclusion, Job 42:15 serves as a powerful testament to the value and equality of women. It celebrates the exceptional beauty of Job's daughters and highlights Job's deliberate act of granting them an inheritance, challenging the prevailing cultural norms of the time. This verse affirms the importance of female empowerment and equality, inviting us to recognize and support the potential and contributions of women in all areas of life. As followers of Christ, we are called to champion gender equality, breaking down barriers and promoting a society where both men and women can thrive and fulfill their God-given destinies.
Job 42:15. In all the land were no women found so beautiful as the daughters of Job. Their father gave them an inheritance among their brothers.
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