King James Version
What Does Job 4:12 Mean?
“Now a thing was secretly brought to me, and mine ear received a little thereof. secretly: Heb. by stealth”
Context
10
The roaring of the lion, and the voice of the fierce lion, and the teeth of the young lions, are broken.
11
The old lion perisheth for lack of prey, and the stout lion's whelps are scattered abroad.
12
Now a thing was secretly brought to me, and mine ear received a little thereof. secretly: Heb. by stealth
13
In thoughts from the visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth on men,
14
Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones to shake. came: Heb. met all: Heb. the multitude of
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **Now a thing.**—He now proceeds to enforce and illustrate what he has said in highly poetical language, which has been versified in one of Byron’s Hebrew Melodies.
**Secretly brought to me.**—Literally, *was stolen for me. *Joseph uses the same expression of himself in Genesis 40:15.
**Mine ear received a little, **compared with the inexhaustible resources remaining unrevealed. The word used for *little *is only found once again, and in the mouth of Job (Job 26:14).
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 4:12 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 4:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge