King James Version

What Does Job 21:1 Mean?

Job 21:1 in the King James Version says “But Job answered and said,” — study this verse from Job chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But Job answered and said,”

Job 21:1 · KJV

Context

1

But Job answered and said,

2

Hear diligently my speech, and let this be your consolations.

3

Suffer me that I may speak; and after that I have spoken, mock on.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Job's response introduces a crucial shift in the dialogue. The Hebrew anah (עָנָה, "answered") signals Job's deliberate engagement with his friends' arguments. Job's imperative "Hear diligently my speech" (shim'u shamo'a millati) uses an emphatic construction demanding careful attention. This marks a transition from lament to reasoned argument. Job will now systematically dismantle his friends' retribution theology by appealing to empirical observation. From a Reformed perspective, this demonstrates that true faith doesn't require us to deny reality or suppress honest questions. God honors rational discourse grounded in observable truth. Job's method anticipates the Apostle Paul's approach in Romans, where theology must account for what we actually see in the world.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature typically featured dialogues between sages, but Job's format is unique in its extended debate structure. The imperative to "hear" recalls the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) and Israel's covenantal obligation to listen to God's word. Job inverts this: he demands that his friends listen to him with the same attention they claim to give to divine wisdom. This would have been countercultural in a society that valued traditional teaching over personal experience.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Job's call for careful listening challenge us to engage honestly with difficult questions rather than offering simplistic answers?
  2. What does Job's willingness to challenge conventional wisdom teach about intellectual integrity in the life of faith?
  3. How might Job's approach inform how we respond to those experiencing suffering today?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וַיַּ֥עַן1 of 3

“answered”

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אִיּ֗וֹב2 of 3

“But Job”

H347

ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience

וַיֹּאמַֽר׃3 of 3

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 21:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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