For resentment kills a foolResentment, often understood as a deep-seated bitterness or anger, is portrayed here as a destructive force. In the biblical context, resentment is frequently associated with foolishness, as it blinds individuals to wisdom and leads them away from God's path.
Proverbs 14:17 and 29:11 echo this sentiment, highlighting the destructive nature of anger and the lack of self-control in fools. The term "fool" in Hebrew culture often refers to someone who is morally deficient and rejects God's wisdom (
Psalm 14:1). The idea that resentment "kills" suggests not only a spiritual death but also the potential for physical and relational destruction, as seen in the story of Cain and Abel (
Genesis 4:5-8), where Cain's resentment led to murder.
and envy slays the simple
Envy, a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, is similarly depicted as lethal. The "simple" in biblical terms often refers to those who are naive or lack discernment (Proverbs 1:22). Envy is a recurring theme in Scripture, warning against its corrosive effects on the soul and community (James 3:16). The story of Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37:11) illustrates how envy can lead to betrayal and familial strife. In a broader theological sense, envy is seen as a sin that separates individuals from God's will, as it focuses on worldly desires rather than spiritual growth. The New Testament further warns against envy, urging believers to seek contentment and godliness (1 Timothy 6:6).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Eliphaz the TemaniteOne of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Eliphaz is the speaker in this passage, offering his perspective on suffering and divine justice.
2.
JobA wealthy and righteous man who experiences immense suffering. The book of Job explores his trials and the dialogues between him and his friends.
3.
TemanA region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz, being a Temanite, is considered wise and knowledgeable.
Teaching Points
The Destructive Power of Resentment and EnvyResentment and envy are not just emotions but can lead to spiritual and even physical destruction. They consume the individual, leading to irrational actions and decisions.
Guarding the HeartAs believers, we are called to guard our hearts against these destructive emotions. This involves cultivating contentment and gratitude, which are antidotes to envy.
Wisdom in RelationshipsEliphaz's counsel, though not entirely applicable to Job's situation, contains wisdom about human nature. We should seek to understand the root of our emotions and address them biblically.
The Role of Friends in Times of SufferingWhile Eliphaz's advice is flawed, it highlights the importance of having godly friends who can offer biblical counsel and encouragement during difficult times.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Job 5:2?
2.How does Job 5:2 warn against the dangers of "resentment" and "envy"?
3.What practical steps can we take to avoid the pitfalls mentioned in Job 5:2?
4.How does Job 5:2 connect with Proverbs 14:30 on envy and peace?
5.In what ways can unchecked emotions lead to "death" as described in Job 5:2?
6.How can we cultivate contentment to counteract the "fool" and "simple" tendencies?
7.How does Job 5:2 define the consequences of resentment and envy?
8.What historical context influenced the message in Job 5:2?
9.How does Job 5:2 relate to the theme of divine justice?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 5?
11.What are the Bible's teachings on jealousy?
12.In Job 5:3, how could a fool suddenly flourish only to be cursed, and does this reflect any historical or archeological anomaly?
13.1 Timothy 6:9-10 warns against the love of money, but does this align with interpretations that encourage 'prosperity gospel' teachings in some Christian circles?
14.In Job 5:17, why is suffering portrayed as proof of divine discipline, and does this contradict other scriptures where suffering occurs without such a cause?What Does Job 5:2 Mean
For resentment kills a fool“ For resentment kills a fool ” (Job 5:2) points to the self-destructive power of harboring bitterness.
• Resentment—whether over hurt, injustice, or disappointment—turns inward and corrodes character. Cain’s anger “was very hot” before he killed Abel (Genesis 4:5-8), confirming that unresolved wrath leads to literal death.
• Scripture links unchecked anger to folly: “A fool’s anger is known at once” (Proverbs 12:16). Eliphaz is stating a fact, not merely offering advice; bitterness truly “kills.”
• The damage shows up in several ways:
– Spiritual: it “gives the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27).
– Emotional: it steals joy and peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
– Relational: it ruptures fellowship (Hebrews 12:15).
• God’s remedy is immediate release: “Do not let the sun set upon your anger” (Ephesians 4:26).
Staying resentful is the mark of a fool because it refuses God’s way of forgiveness (Colossians 3:13) and invites His discipline (Matthew 18:34-35).
and envy slays the simple“ …and envy slays the simple ” (Job 5:2) shifts the focus to jealousy.
• Envy desires what others have; it resents their blessings. Joseph’s brothers “were jealous of him” and plotted his downfall (Genesis 37:11, 18-20).
• The “simple” are the naive, those lacking godly discernment (Proverbs 1:4). Their openness makes them vulnerable to the poison of envy, which “rots the bones” (Proverbs 14:30).
• Slaying happens through:
– Spiritual deadness: “Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder” (James 3:16).
– Moral collapse: Saul’s jealousy of David led him into murderous rage (1 Samuel 18:8-11).
– Physical consequences: stress-related illness, violence, even war (James 4:1-2).
• God calls His people to contentment: “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). Trusting the Lord’s provision crushes envy (Psalm 37:4-7).
summaryJob 5:2 delivers a double warning: bitterness and jealousy are fatal. Resentment consumes the fool from within, and envy destroys the undiscerning. The antidote is swift forgiveness, heartfelt gratitude, and steadfast trust in God’s sovereign goodness, ensuring that neither resentment nor envy finds a home in the believer’s heart.
Verse 2. -
For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one. For "wrath" and "envy "others suggest "vexaation" and "impatience" (Lee), or "vexation" and "jealousy" (Revised Version). The connection of thought seems to be, "For thou art quite foolish enough to let thy vexation and impatience prompt thee to such a course, which could only lead to thy destruction." Eliphaz is quite sure that trust in any other beside God, and appeal to any other against God, is utter folly, sinful infatuation, and must lead to the ruin of whoever indulges in it. Thus the invocation of angels receives no countenance from him, but the contrary.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Forכִּֽי־(kî-)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionresentmentכָּ֑עַשׂ(kā·‘aś)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3708:Vexation, angerkillsיַהֲרָג־(ya·hă·rāḡ-)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2026:To smite with deadly intenta fool,לֶֽ֭אֱוִיל(le·’ĕ·wîl)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 191:Foolishand envyקִנְאָֽה׃(qin·’āh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 7068:Ardor, zeal, jealousyslaysתָּמִ֥ית(tā·mîṯ)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 4191:To die, to killthe simple.וּ֝פֹתֶ֗ה(ū·p̄ō·ṯeh)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 6601:To open, be, roomy, to be, simple, delude
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OT Poetry: Job 5:2 For resentment kills the foolish man (Jb) 
