For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.
Anger destroys the foolish person, and jealousy kills the simple-minded one.
This verse is warning that destructive emotions like anger and jealousy ultimately harm the people who hold onto them.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Job, which is set in the ancient patriarchal era, Eliphaz is speaking to his friend Job during a time of immense suffering and loss, offering what he believes is wise counsel. Eliphaz attributes human misfortunes to personal flaws like wrath and envy, reflecting the cultural worldview of the ancient Near East where suffering was often seen as a consequence of moral failings. This verse is part of his broader argument that God uses trials to correct the unwise.
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