Job 22:29
When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up; and he shall save the humble person.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הִ֭שְׁפִּילוּ
When men are cast down
H8213
הִ֭שְׁפִּילוּ
When men are cast down
Strong's:
H8213
Word #:
2 of 7
to depress or sink (especially figuratively, to humiliate, intransitive or transitive)
Cross References
James 4:6But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.Luke 1:52He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.1 Peter 5:5Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.Matthew 23:12And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Historical Context
The promise that God saves the humble appears throughout Scripture. Eliphaz speaks truth but misapplies it by assuming Job's pride caused his suffering. The pattern illustrates a recurring problem in the dialogues: the friends articulate orthodox theology but draw false conclusions about Job's situation. Truth wrongly applied becomes functional falsehood.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we avoid using true biblical promises to manipulate or pressure those who are suffering?
- What is the difference between encouraging genuine humility and demanding false confession?
Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz promises: 'When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up; and he shall save the humble person.' The verb shaphel (שָׁפֵל, cast down) means to be brought low or humbled. Gavah (גָּוָה, lifting up) suggests exaltation or pride—a difficult phrase variously translated. Shach eynayim (שַׁח עֵינַיִם, humble person) literally means 'lowly of eyes.' Eliphaz promises that if Job repents, God will restore and save him. The promise is true in appropriate contexts (James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:6) but wrongly assumes Job needs such repentance.