Job Rebuked by His Friends 1825

William Blake’s print, "Job Rebuked by His Friends," explores themes of suffering, morality, and faith, all of which were very much at stake in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Blake was deeply invested in social justice and critical of established power structures. Here we see an illustration of the Book of Job from the Hebrew Bible where Job is surrounded by his family and being rebuked by three friends. Blake highlights the hypocrisy and self-righteousness of those in positions of authority. Job’s friends, who claim to offer wisdom and guidance, instead inflict further emotional pain through their judgemental words. This suggests a broader critique of religious and political institutions. The print invites us to question prevailing social norms and consider the perspectives of those who have been marginalized or oppressed. Blake’s work resonates with anyone who has experienced the isolating power of moral judgement.