King James Version

What Does Job 6:1 Mean?

Job 6:1 in the King James Version says “But Job answered and said,” — study this verse from Job chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But Job answered and said,”

Job 6:1 · KJV

Context

1

But Job answered and said,

2

Oh that my grief were throughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances together! laid: Heb. lifted up

3

For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are swallowed up. my words: that is, I want words to express my grief

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Job's response begins with 'But Job answered and said'—the Hebrew 'anah' (answered) indicates formal rebuttal. Job won't accept Eliphaz's accusations silently. This models appropriate response to false teaching: the suffering shouldn't passively accept blame for tragedies they didn't cause. Reformed theology affirms that while submission to God's sovereignty is righteous, submission to false accusations is not required.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern wisdom dialogues followed formal patterns of speech and response. Job's formal answer signals he's engaging Eliphaz's arguments seriously rather than dismissing them.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you balance submission to God with appropriate rejection of false accusations from people?
  2. When is it right to defend yourself against theological accusations versus when should you remain silent?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וַיַּ֥עַן1 of 3

“answered”

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

“But 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 6:1 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 6:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 4:1

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