Definition: With him [is] strength and wisdom: the deceived and the deceiver [are] his.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Job 12:16. It’s a really thought-provoking statement about God's power and how He operates in the world. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that God is immensely strong and wise, and He has the ability to deceive and manipulate people. It's not just a simple "He's powerful"; it’s a statement of His dominion over events and the choices people make. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “With him [is] strength…” – This refers to God’s inherent power, His ability to do whatever He chooses. It suggests that God isn’t just capable of things, but actively does things. “…and wisdom:” - Wisdom is more than just knowledge; it's the understanding of how things work and the ability to make good decisions. It’s the insight into truth and purpose. “The deceived and the deceiver [are] his.” – This is the really important part. It means that God has the ability to lead people astray, to trick them, and to manipulate their beliefs and actions. The "deceiver" here is someone who intentionally tries to mislead others. So, God isn’t just passively allowing things to happen; He actively uses his wisdom and power to cause deception. What does this mean in a broader sense? It speaks to temptation: This verse highlights the danger of being tempted by evil or deceptive influences. God is not simply allowing bad things to happen, but actively working against good choices. It’s about free will: It suggests that we have the freedom to choose our path, but God can use our choices against us in ways that are difficult to resist. It's a reminder of His sovereignty: It underscores the idea that God is in control of all things, and He isn't just passively observing; He’s actively shaping events. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a commentary on the story of Job, which explores themes of suffering, faith, and divine justice. It’s not meant to be taken literally about human suffering, but rather as a reflection of God’s ultimate power and plan. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story from the Bible (like Job)? Discuss its potential meaning within a philosophical context?