What is the meaning of Job 21:1?

Then

• “Then” places Job’s reply squarely after Zophar’s speech in Job 20, underscoring an orderly, factual narrative (Job 20:1–29).

• Scripture often uses this temporal marker to show God’s unfolding purposes, e.g., Exodus 14:30–31; Acts 9:18.

• The word assures us that events occur under divine supervision and timing (Psalm 31:15; Ecclesiastes 3:1).

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Job

• Job is identified again to keep the focus on the suffering yet blameless man introduced in Job 1:1–5.

• His steadfast integrity is confirmed later by God Himself (Job 42:7–8) and echoed in Ezekiel 14:14 and James 5:11.

• The mention of his name here reminds readers that real people of faith can endure real trials without losing their standing before God (1 Peter 1:6–7).

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answered

• Job’s “answer” signals dialogue, not monologue—his friends’ claims must be tested against truth (Proverbs 18:17).

• By responding, Job models a godly right to speak when falsely judged (Job 16:2–5; 23:1–7).

• His reply introduces a chapter where he challenges simplistic retribution theology, foreshadowing God’s later correction of all parties (Job 38:1–2).

• The verse also illustrates Proverbs 15:23—“A man finds joy in giving an apt reply”—because Job seeks to set the record straight before the Lord (Psalm 62:8).

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summary

Job 21:1 establishes a precise moment (“Then”), identifies a real sufferer of proven integrity (“Job”), and announces his deliberate, thoughtful rebuttal (“answered”). The verse reminds believers that God records conversations, values honest engagement with suffering, and invites His people to speak truthfully while trusting His perfect timing.