Job 40:6
Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּֽעַן
Then answered
H6030
וַיַּֽעַן
Then answered
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מִ֥נ׀
H4480
מִ֥נ׀
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
Cross References
Historical Context
In ancient legal contexts, ceasing to plead one's case signaled acceptance of the judge's authority. Job effectively drops his lawsuit against God. This would resonate with ancient readers familiar with legal proceedings. Job's silence represents abandoning demands for explanation and submitting to divine sovereignty.
Questions for Reflection
- What arguments with God do you need to cease, accepting His sovereign authority instead?
- How does Job's model of stopping self-justification inform your response to divine correction?
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Analysis & Commentary
"Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further." Job commits to silence—he spoke "once" and "twice" (Hebrew idiom for "repeatedly"), but now stops. The verb asif (אֹסִיף, "I will add/proceed") is negated. Job recognizes his previous speeches, though sincere, were presumptuous. This demonstrates repentance—not for moral failure but for epistemic pride. Job thought he could judge God's ways; now he knows better. The verse models proper response to divine revelation—ceasing self-justification and accepting God's authority.