King James Version

What Does Job 4:2 Mean?

Job 4:2 in the King James Version says “If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but who can withhold himself from speaking? to: Heb. a word with...” — study this verse from Job chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but who can withhold himself from speaking? to: Heb. a word withhold: Heb. refrain from words?”

Job 4:2 · KJV

Context

1

Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said,

2

If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but who can withhold himself from speaking? to: Heb. a word withhold: Heb. refrain from words?

3

Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands.

4

Thy words have upholden him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the feeble knees.

Read Job 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Eliphaz begins tentatively: 'If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved?' The Hebrew 'nasa' (assay/venture) and 'la'ah' (be weary/grieved) suggest he fears Job might find speech burdensome. Yet this apparent courtesy masks the coming accusation. Eliphaz's politeness cannot conceal that he will ultimately blame Job for his suffering, demonstrating how even well-intentioned counsel can wound when it lacks divine wisdom (Proverbs 18:2).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern wisdom teachers valued rhetorical courtesy, especially when addressing someone of high social status. Eliphaz's diplomatic opening reflects this convention but also his uncertainty about Job's fragile state.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you balance honesty with sensitivity when counseling those who are suffering?
  2. In what ways might polite speech mask faulty theology or accusation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
הֲנִסָּ֬ה1 of 8

“If we assay”

H5254

to test; by implication, to attempt

דָבָ֣ר2 of 8

“to commune”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

אֵלֶ֣יךָ3 of 8
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

תִּלְאֶ֑ה4 of 8

“with thee wilt thou be grieved”

H3811

to tire; (figuratively) to be (or make) disgusted

וַעְצֹ֥ר5 of 8

“withhold”

H6113

to inclose; by analogy, to hold back; also to maintain, rule, assemble

בְּ֝מִלִּ֗ין6 of 8

“himself from speaking”

H4405

a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic

מִ֣י7 of 8
H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

יוּכָֽל׃8 of 8

“but who can”

H3201

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

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 4:2 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 4:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 32:18-20Acts 4:20Jeremiah 6:11Jeremiah 20:92 Corinthians 7:8-102 Corinthians 2:4-6

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