Job 4:16
It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice, saying,
Original Language Analysis
יַֽעֲמֹ֤ד׀
It stood still
H5975
יַֽעֲמֹ֤ד׀
It stood still
Strong's:
H5975
Word #:
1 of 10
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
וְֽלֹא
H3808
וְֽלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
2 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אַכִּ֬יר
but I could not discern
H5234
אַכִּ֬יר
but I could not discern
Strong's:
H5234
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (
מַרְאֵ֗הוּ
the form
H4758
מַרְאֵ֗הוּ
the form
Strong's:
H4758
Word #:
4 of 10
a view (the act of seeing); also an appearance (the thing seen), whether (real) a shape (especially if handsome, comeliness; often plural the looks),
תְּ֭מוּנָה
thereof an image
H8544
תְּ֭מוּנָה
thereof an image
Strong's:
H8544
Word #:
5 of 10
something portioned (i.e., fashioned) out, as a shape, i.e., (indefinitely) phantom, or (specifically) embodiment, or (figuratively) manifestation (of
לְנֶ֣גֶד
H5048
לְנֶ֣גֶד
Strong's:
H5048
Word #:
6 of 10
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
Historical Context
Visionary experiences in ancient Near Eastern prophecy often included indistinct forms and voices. Eliphaz's description follows conventional patterns, making it difficult for his audience to challenge the vision's authenticity.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you evaluate spiritual experiences that seem impressive but deliver unbiblical messages?
- What does the content of Eliphaz's vision reveal about its true source?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz reports, 'It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice.' The inability to discern the form suggests either overwhelming glory or deliberate obscurity. The 'silence' (Hebrew 'demamah') before the voice parallels Elijah's experience (1 Kings 19:12), but where God's voice brought comfort to Elijah, this voice will deliver accusation. Form without content clarity marks false revelation.