Job 15:12
Why doth thine heart carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at,
Original Language Analysis
מַה
H4100
מַה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
יִּקָּחֲךָ֥
carry thee away
H3947
יִּקָּחֲךָ֥
carry thee away
Strong's:
H3947
Word #:
2 of 6
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
לִבֶּ֑ךָ
Why doth thine heart
H3820
לִבֶּ֑ךָ
Why doth thine heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
3 of 6
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וּֽמַה
H4100
וּֽמַה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom literature often counseled emotional restraint (Proverbs 29:11). Eliphaz applies this principle mechanically, failing to distinguish righteous passion from sinful outburst. Prophets like Jeremiah demonstrate that strong emotional expression can serve faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we distinguish passionate faith from sinful emotional indulgence?
- When is emotional restraint wisdom, and when is it suppression of legitimate feelings?
- How does the Bible's emotional honesty (Psalms, Lamentations) validate expressing strong feelings to God?
Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz accuses Job's emotions of betraying him: 'Why doth thine heart carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at?' The 'heart carrying away' suggests uncontrolled passion clouding judgment. The 'winking eyes' may indicate scorn or arrogance. Eliphaz pathologizes Job's emotional expressions, assuming passionate speech proves guilt. This reflects common error—mistaking strong emotion for spiritual compromise. Scripture validates emotional honesty (Psalms, Lamentations) while warning against sin-driven passion.