King James Version
What Does Job 40:4 Mean?
“Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.”
Context
2
Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.
3
Then Job answered the LORD, and said,
4
Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
5
Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.
6
Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible CommentaryCHAPTER 22
THIRD SERIES.
Job 22:1-30. As Before, Eliphaz Begins.
1. Eliphaz shows that man's goodness does not add to, or man's badness take from, the happiness of God; therefore it cannot be that God sends prosperity to some and calamities on others for His own advantage; the cause of the goods and ills sent must lie in the men themselves (Psa 16:2; Lu 17:10; Ac 17:25; 1Ch 29:14). So Job's calamities must arise from guilt. Eliphaz, instead of meeting the facts, tries to show that it could not be so.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 40:4 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 40:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge