Job 4:6
Is not this thy fear, thy confidence, thy hope, and the uprightness of thy ways?
Original Language Analysis
הֲלֹ֣א
H3808
הֲלֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִ֭רְאָתְךָ
Is not this thy fear
H3374
יִ֭רְאָתְךָ
Is not this thy fear
Strong's:
H3374
Word #:
2 of 6
fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence
כִּסְלָתֶ֑ךָ
thy confidence
H3690
כִּסְלָתֶ֑ךָ
thy confidence
Strong's:
H3690
Word #:
3 of 6
in a good sense, trust; in a bad one, silliness
תִּ֝קְוָֽתְךָ֗
thy hope
H8615
תִּ֝קְוָֽתְךָ֗
thy hope
Strong's:
H8615
Word #:
4 of 6
literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy
Cross References
Proverbs 3:26For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.Proverbs 14:26In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.Job 1:1There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.Job 17:15And where is now my hope? as for my hope, who shall see it?Job 16:17Not for any injustice in mine hands: also my prayer is pure.2 Kings 20:3I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.Job 13:15Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.1 Peter 1:13Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;1 Peter 1:17And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:
Historical Context
Wisdom teachers debated whether piety guaranteed protection from suffering. Eliphaz represents the orthodox view of his time—that righteousness ensures prosperity—which Job's experience challenges.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you discern between genuine faith and mere external religion in yourself and others?
- What role does suffering play in revealing the authenticity of faith?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Eliphaz asks, 'Is not this thy fear, thy confidence, thy hope, and the uprightness of thy ways?' This could be read two ways: either asking if Job's former piety is now his confidence, or accusing Job's piety of being shallow. The Hebrew allows both readings. Eliphaz seems to suggest Job's faith was merely external righteousness rather than genuine trust, anticipating Satan's accusation. This shows how suffering provides opportunity for false teachers to doubt others' salvation.