Job 1:4

Berean Standard Bible
Job’s sons would take turns holding feasts in their homes, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them.
 
King James Bible
And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them.
 
NET Bible
Now his sons used to go and hold a feast in the house of each one in turn, and they would send and invite their three sisters to eat and to drink with them.
 
Hebrew:

וְהָֽלְכוּ בָנָיו וְעָשׂוּ מִשְׁתֶּה, בֵּית אִישׁ יוֹמוֹ; וְשָׁלְחוּ וְקָרְאוּ לִשְׁלֹשֶׁת אַחְיוֹתֵיהֶן, לֶאֱכֹל וְלִשְׁתּוֹת עִמָּהֶם

 
Transliteration:
V'halchu b'nav v'asu mishteh, beit ish yomoh; v'shalchu v'kar'u l'shloshet achyoteihem, le'echol v'lishtot imahem
 
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Study Bible:
 
Job’s sons
The mention of "Job’s sons" introduces us to the family dynamics central to the narrative. In the Hebrew text, the word for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which signifies not only biological offspring but also the continuation of one's legacy and name. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sons were often seen as the bearers of the family’s honor and future. This highlights the importance of family and lineage in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the blessings Job had in his children.
 
would take turns
The phrase "would take turns" suggests a sense of order and regularity in the family’s social life. The Hebrew root here implies a cyclical or rotational action, indicating that the feasts were a regular occurrence. This reflects a structured family tradition, showcasing the unity and harmony among Job’s children. It also suggests a culture of sharing and equality, as each son had the opportunity to host.
 
holding feasts
The act of "holding feasts" is significant in the ancient world, where feasting was a symbol of prosperity, celebration, and community. The Hebrew word for feast, "מִשְׁתֶּה" (mishteh), often denotes a banquet or a drinking party. Feasts were occasions for joy and fellowship, reflecting the wealth and social status of Job’s family. This practice underscores the blessings and abundance that Job enjoyed, setting the stage for the trials that would test his faith.
 
in their homes
The phrase "in their homes" indicates that each son had his own household, suggesting independence and maturity. In the cultural context, having one's own home was a sign of stability and success. This detail highlights the prosperity and well-being of Job’s family, as each son was established enough to host gatherings. It also reflects the patriarchal structure of society, where sons would eventually lead their own households.
 
and they would invite their three sisters
The inclusion of "their three sisters" in the feasts is noteworthy. In the Hebrew text, the word for "invite" implies a deliberate and inclusive action. This detail emphasizes the familial bond and the importance of unity among siblings. In a patriarchal society, the mention of sisters participating equally in the feasts highlights the respect and care within Job’s family, showcasing a model of familial love and harmony.
 
to eat and drink with them
The phrase "to eat and drink with them" signifies fellowship and communion. In biblical times, sharing a meal was an intimate act that fostered relationships and community. The Hebrew words for "eat" and "drink" are often associated with celebration and joy. This detail underscores the peace and prosperity that characterized Job’s family life, setting a stark contrast to the trials that would soon follow. It serves as a reminder of the blessings that God bestows and the importance of cherishing moments of togetherness.
 
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Commentary:
 
Family Bond: The verse highlights the strong familial bond among Job's children. They not only celebrated together but also included their sisters, reflecting an inclusive and loving family environment.
 
Wealth and Prosperity: The ability to host feasts regularly indicates that Job's family was wealthy and prosperous. Feasts in ancient times were often associated with abundance and generosity.
 
Possible Causes of Later Tragedy: The fact that Job's children were all together when tragedy struck (as described in later verses) might be foreshadowed here. Their regular gatherings made it easier for calamity to impact them all at once.
 
Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, communal feasting was a common practice for strengthening social bonds. Job's family engaging in such practices aligns with the cultural norms of the time.
 
Job’s Concern: In the following verses, we see Job's deep concern for the spiritual well-being of his children. He regularly offered sacrifices on their behalf, fearing they might have sinned during their feasts. This underscores Job's piety and the importance he placed on maintaining a right relationship with God.
 
This verse sets the stage for understanding the subsequent trials Job and his family face and provides a glimpse into the dynamics of his household.