King James Version

What Does Job 38:2 Mean?

Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?

Context

1

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,

2

Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?

3

Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. answer: Heb. make me know

4

Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. hast: Heb. knowest understanding

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **Who is this?**—The question may be answered by Job’s own words (Job 14:1). It is a man as so described, a dying and enfeebled man, like Job himself, not even a man in his best estate, but one so persecuted and exhausted as Job: one, therefore, altogether unequal to the task he has undertaken. **That darkeneth counsel.**—That is, probably, *my counsel, *which was the matter under debate. The words, however, are often used proverbially in a general sense. Such discussions, carried on, as they cannot but be, in entire ignorance by blind mortals, must to God’s omniscience seem thus, and cannot be otherwise than the darkening of counsel by words without knowledge.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 38:2 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 38:2

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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