Job 21:4
As for me, is my complaint to man? and if it were so, why should not my spirit be troubled?
Original Language Analysis
לְאָדָ֣ם
to man
H120
לְאָדָ֣ם
to man
Strong's:
H120
Word #:
2 of 8
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
שִׂיחִ֑י
As for me is my complaint
H7879
שִׂיחִ֑י
As for me is my complaint
Strong's:
H7879
Word #:
3 of 8
a contemplation; by implication, an utterance
וְאִם
H518
וְאִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
4 of 8
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
מַ֝דּ֗וּעַ
H4069
מַ֝דּ֗וּעַ
Strong's:
H4069
Word #:
5 of 8
what (is) known?; i.e., (by implication) (adverbially) why?
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom distinguished between human and divine concerns. Job's clarification shows his questions address ultimate meaning, not just interpersonal conflict.
Questions for Reflection
- What's the difference between complaining about circumstances and questioning God?
- How do you identify when your troubles are existential versus practical?
Analysis & Commentary
Job clarifies his complaint: 'As for me, is my complaint to man? and if it were so, why should not my spirit be troubled?' This distinguishes between complaints about humans versus theological questions for God. Job's trouble is existential, not merely social.