Definition: He poureth contempt upon princes, and weakeneth the strength of the mighty.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really powerful verse from Job 12:21. It's a pretty dense one, but we can unpack it into understandable parts. Here’s what it means, explained simply: “He poureth contempt upon princes” : This is the core of the verse. "Poureth" is a bit old-fashioned, but it means “he pours” or “he spreads.” So, this part describes someone who deliberately spreads a feeling of disrespect and disdain. Think of it like throwing a bucket of water – it's not a direct attack, but it’s certainly impactful. “and weakeneth the strength of the mighty” : This is where it gets really interesting. “The mighty” refers to powerful, influential people – kings, leaders, and those with great authority. "Weakeneth" means to diminish or lessen their power, strength, or ability to do what they’re supposed to. It's like a ripple effect – the person who is spreading contempt is subtly eroding the foundation of someone else’s authority. So, putting it all together: This verse says that someone deliberately acts in a way that makes powerful people feel small and powerless. They aren't physically attacking them; they're sowing doubt and disrespect, which ultimately weakens their ability to maintain control or influence. What does this have to do with Job? In the context of the entire book of Job, this verse is a key part of understanding why God seems to test and challenge humans. Job was experiencing immense suffering and loss – losing his children, his wealth, and his reputation. This verse suggests that God isn’t just passively allowing suffering; He's actively working against the powerful and influential, reminding us of our own fragility and insignificance in the grand scheme of things. In essence, it’s a commentary on the idea that even those who seem invincible can be subtly undermined. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with more examples? Discuss the overall message of Job 12:21 within the context of the book? Explore why this verse is considered significant in biblical theology?