Topics

Zophar

Zophar was one of Job's three friends who came to comfort him during his suffering, but who ultimately spoke falsely about God's nature and Job's condition. God rebuked Zophar for his words and required him to seek Job's intercession for forgiveness.

Overview

Zophar of Naamah was one of three friends who visited Job after learning of his calamities. Along with Eliphaz and Bildad, Zophar engaged in extended dialogues with Job, arguing that his suffering must be due to hidden sin. Unlike his companions, Zophar spoke fewer times but with equal presumption about God's justice and Job's guilt.

Key Scriptures

"After the Lord had spoken these words to Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite: 'My wrath is kindled against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.'" (Job 42:7, ESV)

"Therefore take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and offer up a burnt offering for yourselves. And my servant Job shall pray for you, for I will accept his prayer not to deal with you according to your folly." (Job 42:8, ESV)

Application

Beware of speaking with false certainty about why others suffer, as God alone understands the full purposes behind trials.

Scripture References 4
Full Topical Reference List 4 total — Nave's Topical Bible