Job 11:15
For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear:
Original Language Analysis
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אָ֤ז׀
H227
תִּשָּׂ֣א
For then shalt thou lift up
H5375
תִּשָּׂ֣א
For then shalt thou lift up
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
3 of 9
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
פָנֶ֣יךָ
thy face
H6440
פָנֶ֣יךָ
thy face
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 9
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
וְהָיִ֥יתָ
H1961
וְהָיִ֥יתָ
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
6 of 9
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
מֻ֝צָ֗ק
yea thou shalt be stedfast
H3332
מֻ֝צָ֗ק
yea thou shalt be stedfast
Strong's:
H3332
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, to pour out (transitive or intransitive); by implication, to melt or cast as metal; by extension, to place firmly, to stiffen or grow hard
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom literature often promised that righteous behavior would lead to prosperity and peace. Zophar operates within this retribution paradigm, which Job's experience will complicate and ultimately transcend.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we distinguish between the confidence of a clear conscience and false assurance based on works?
- In what ways do we subtly make God's acceptance conditional on our performance?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Zophar promises that if Job repents, he'll 'lift up [his] face without spot' (מוּם, mum—blemish, defect), be 'stedfast' (יָצַק, yatsaq—poured out, solid, secure), and fearless. This describes the confidence of a clear conscience (1 John 3:21, Hebrews 10:22). The theology isn't false—confession does bring peace (Psalm 32:1-5, 1 John 1:9). The error is the assumption that Job's suffering proves he lacks this innocence. Zophar offers conditional grace: perform repentance, receive blessing. But biblical grace is unconditional (Romans 5:8). Job's later restoration comes not from repentance for imaginary sins but from God's sovereign mercy. The Reformed emphasis on justification by faith alone refutes Zophar's works-righteousness.