Job 11:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 11:2
2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?
Chapter Context
Job 11 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, redemption. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 11:2
2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?
Analysis
Zophar attacks Job's defense: 'Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?' This rhetorical question dismisses Job's lament as mere verbosity. Zophar represents those who mistake words for wisdom and confuse suffering with sin.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom valued brevity, but Zophar uses this principle to silence legitimate complaint. His implication that 'multitude of words' equals guilt reveals prejudice against honest lament.
Reflection
- When have you dismissed someone's pain because they spoke too much?
- How do you discern between authentic lament and empty complaint?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Word: Job 18:2, Proverbs 10:19