King James Version

What Does Job 3:2 Mean?

Job 3:2 in the King James Version says “And Job spake, and said, spake: Heb. answered” — study this verse from Job chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Job spake, and said, spake: Heb. answered”

Job 3:2 · KJV

Context

1

After this opened Job his mouth, and cursed his day.

2

And Job spake, and said, spake: Heb. answered

3

Let the day perish wherein I was born, and the night in which it was said, There is a man child conceived.

4

Let that day be darkness; let not God regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Job's breaking silence after seven days marks the transition from patient endurance to honest lament. The phrase 'opened his mouth' (Hebrew 'patach peh') appears elsewhere at crucial moments of prophetic utterance (Ezekiel 3:27, 33:22). Job's speech isn't sin—the narrator never condemns it—but rather the outpouring of authentic human grief. Reformed theology affirms that lament is a legitimate response to suffering, distinct from sinful accusation against God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In wisdom literature, formal speeches follow structured patterns. Job's opening with curse rather than blessing signals the depth of his anguish while remaining within acceptable bounds of covenant complaint.

Reflection Questions

  1. Do you give yourself permission to honestly express grief to God?
  2. How do you distinguish between legitimate lament and sinful accusation in your prayers?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וַיַּ֥עַן1 of 3

“spake”

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

“And 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 3:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Job 3:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Judges 18:14

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