Job 11:2

Authorized King James Version

Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲרֹ֣ב

H7230

Should not the multitude

abundance (in any respect)

דְּ֭בָרִים

H1697

of words

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

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֵעָנֶ֑ה

H6030

be answered

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,

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

אִ֖ישׁ

H376

and should a man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

שְׂפָתַ֣יִם

H8193

full of talk

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

יִצְדָּֽק׃

H6663

be justified

to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?