Both small and great are thereThis phrase highlights the universality of death, a theme prevalent throughout the book of Job. In the context of Job's lament, he is expressing the idea that death is the great equalizer, where social status, wealth, and power hold no significance. This reflects the biblical teaching found in
Ecclesiastes 3:20, where it is stated that all go to the same place. Historically, ancient Near Eastern cultures, including those surrounding Job's time, often viewed the afterlife as a place where earthly distinctions were erased. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where
Galatians 3:28 speaks of the equality of all in Christ, transcending social and economic barriers.
and the slave is freed from his master
In the ancient world, slavery was a common institution, and slaves were often subject to harsh treatment and lacked personal freedom. Job's statement here can be seen as a reflection of the hope for liberation and rest in death, where earthly hierarchies and injustices are nullified. This notion is consistent with the biblical theme of ultimate justice and freedom found in the eschatological hope of the Bible, as seen inRevelation 21:4, where God promises to wipe away every tear and eliminate pain and suffering. The idea of freedom from bondage also prefigures the spiritual liberation offered through Jesus Christ, as described inJohn 8:36, where true freedom is found in Him.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
JobA man of great faith and integrity, Job is the central figure in the Book of Job. He experiences profound suffering and questions the meaning of life and justice.
2.
The Grave (Sheol)In the context of
Job 3:19, the grave is depicted as a place where earthly distinctions and hierarchies are nullified. It is a common theme in ancient Near Eastern literature, representing the final resting place for all, regardless of status.
3.
Slaves and MastersThis verse references the social structure of the time, where slavery was a common practice. The mention of slaves being freed in death highlights the theme of equality in the afterlife.
Teaching Points
The Universality of DeathDeath is a universal experience that transcends social, economic, and cultural boundaries. It serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the temporary nature of earthly distinctions.
Equality Before GodIn death, all are equal before God. This should encourage us to treat others with respect and dignity, recognizing that earthly status holds no weight in the eyes of God.
Hope Beyond Earthly LifeWhile death is a great equalizer, Christians hold the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. This hope should influence how we live and interact with others, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary status.
Freedom in ChristThe freedom mentioned in
Job 3:19 can be seen as a precursor to the spiritual freedom offered in Christ. Believers are called to live in the freedom that comes from being children of God, free from the bondage of sin and societal constraints.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Job 3:19?
2.How does Job 3:19 reflect the equality of all before God?
3.What can Job 3:19 teach us about earthly status and eternal rest?
4.How does Job 3:19 connect with Jesus' teachings on humility?
5.How should Job 3:19 influence our view of wealth and power?
6.How can Job 3:19 guide us in treating others with fairness?
7.How does Job 3:19 challenge the concept of social hierarchy in the afterlife?
8.What does Job 3:19 suggest about equality in death?
9.How does Job 3:19 reflect on the futility of earthly status?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 3?
11.What are the Courts of Heaven?
12.What occurs in 'Left Behind' after the Rapture?
13.What does 'the still small voice' mean?
14.Revelation 19:17-18 depicts a grisly feast of flesh for birds--how does this align with a compassionate God portrayed elsewhere in scripture?What Does Job 3:19 Mean
Both small and great are thereJob is speaking of the grave (v. 17). In that place:
• Rank and status evaporate. Kings lie beside paupers just asPsalm 49:10 observes: “The wise and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others.”
• Death is the great leveler, fulfillingGenesis 3:19—“for dust you are, and to dust you shall return.”
• Whether a life was celebrated or forgotten, every person meets the same appointment (Ecclesiastes 9:2 - 3).
Job’s lament reminds us that earthly distinctions, so weighty now, hold no sway beyond the grave.
and the slave is freed from his masterIn Sheol, oppression ceases. Notice how Job expands the thought already introduced in verse 17—“there the weary are at rest.”
• The slave’s chains drop away; the whip is silenced.Isaiah 14:3-4 pictures a similar release when “the LORD gives you rest from your pain and turmoil and hard labor.”
• No hierarchy survives death (Matthew 20:16). Every believer can take comfort that ultimate justice lies with God (Romans 14:9).
• Job is not endorsing suicide; he is voicing anguish. The rest he pictures foreshadows the perfect freedom promised in Christ (Revelation 14:13).
summaryJob 3:19 captures two linked truths: death erases human status, and it ends earthly oppression. While Job speaks from deep despair, his words highlight God’s ultimate equalizing of all people and hint at the rest God provides to those who trust Him.
Verse 19. -
The small and great are there;
i.e. "all are there, the small and great alike;" for
"Omnes eodem cogimur, cranium
Versatur urna serius ocius
Sors exitura, et nos in aeternum
Exilium impositura cymbae."
(Her., ' Od.') And the servant is free from his master; rather,the slave (עֶבֶד).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Both smallקָטֹ֣ן(qā·ṭōn)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6996:Small, young, unimportantand greatוְ֭גָדוֹל(wə·ḡā·ḏō·wl)Conjunctive waw | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 1419:Great, older, insolentare there,שָׁ֣ם(šām)Adverb
Strong's 8033:There, then, thitherand the slaveוְ֝עֶ֗בֶד(wə·‘e·ḇeḏ)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5650:Slave, servantis freedחָפְשִׁ֥י(ḥā·p̄ə·šî)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2670:Exemptfrom his master.מֵאֲדֹנָֽיו׃(mê·’ă·ḏō·nāw)Preposition-m | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 113:Sovereign, controller
Links
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OT Poetry: Job 3:19 The small and the great are there (Jb) 
