Job 31:11

“For this [is] an heinous crime, etc.] Adultery; it is contrary to the light of nature, and is condemned by it as a great sin, (<012009>Genesis 20:9 26:10); as well as contrary to the express will and law of God, (<022014>Exodus 20:14); and, though all sin is a transgression of the law of God, and deserving of death; yet there are some sins greater and more heinous than others, being attended with aggravating circumstances; and such is this sin, it is a breach of the marriage contract and covenant between man and wife; it is doing injury to a man’s property, and to that which is the nearest and dearest to him, and is what introduces confusion into families, kingdoms, and states; and therefore…”

“In the earliest times punished with death (Gen 38:24). So in later times (Deu 22:22). Heretofore he had spoken only of sins against conscience; now, one against the community, needing the cognizance of the judge.”

“For this is an heinous crime - This expresses Job’s sense of the enormity of such an offence. He felt that there was no palliation for it; he would in no way, and on no pretence, attempt to vindicate it. An iniquity to be punished by the judges - A crime for the judges to determine on and decide. The sins which Job had specified before this, were those of the heart; but here he refers to a crime against society - an offence which deserved the interposition of the magistrate. It may be observed here, that adultery has always been regarded as a sin “to be punished by the judges.” In most countries it has been punished with death; see the notes at John 8:5. return to 'Top of Page'”

“This - Adultery. It is - Heb. an iniquity of the judges; which belongs to them to take cognizance of, and to punish, even with death; and that not only by the law of Moses, but even by the law of nature, as appears from the known laws and customs of the Heathen nations. Job 31:12”

“31:11 The Hebrew term zimmah (shameful sin) is associated with sexual crimes such as incest (“wicked act,” Lev 18:17), gang-rape (“terrible . . . crime,” Judg 20:6), and prostitution (Ezek 23:49).”

“an heinous: Gen 20:9, Gen 26:10, Gen 39:9; Exo 20:14; Pro 6:29-33 an iniquity: Job 31:28; Gen 38:24; Lev 20:10; Deu 22:22-24; Eze 16:38 Job 31:12”