Job 33:31
Mark well, O Job, hearken unto me: hold thy peace, and I will speak.
Original Language Analysis
שְֽׁמַֽע
hearken
H8085
שְֽׁמַֽע
hearken
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
3 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition emphasized the disciple posture: silence before the teacher. Proverbs repeatedly contrasts the wise (who listen) with fools (who speak hastily): Proverbs 17:28, "Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise." Egyptian wisdom literature (Instruction of Amenemope) similarly emphasized listening. Elihu's demand reflects this pedagogy—learning requires receptivity, not merely asserting one's position.
Questions for Reflection
- How does cultivating silence before God enable spiritual growth?
- What prevents us from truly listening to God's word?
- How does Job's eventual silence (42:6) demonstrate mature faith?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Mark well, O Job, hearken unto me (הַקְשֵׁב אִיּוֹב שְׁמַע־לִי, haqshev Iyyov shema-li)—The verb qashav (קָשַׁב, "to attend, pay attention") and shama (שָׁמַע, "to hear, obey") together emphasize urgent listening. This doubles the imperative, demanding Job's full attention. The phrase hold thy peace, and I will speak (הַחֲרֵשׁ וְאָנֹכִי אֲדַבֵּר) uses charash (חָרַשׁ, "to be silent"). Elihu demands Job's silence to receive instruction. This reflects ancient teacher-student dynamics—disciples silent before masters.
The biblical pattern is consistent: "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). Jesus rebuked the storm: "Peace, be still" (Mark 4:39). Spiritual receptivity requires silencing our defenses and arguments. Job's previous speeches (chapters 3-31) have been extensive self-justification. Elihu demands he cease and listen. This anticipates God's answer (chapters 38-41), which also silences Job (40:4, 42:6). True wisdom begins with humble listening, not assertive speaking (James 1:19, "swift to hear, slow to speak").