Job 13:5

5 If only you would shut up and let that be your wisdom![a]

Job 13:5 Meaning and Commentary

Job 13:5

And that ye would altogether hold your peace
Since what they said of him was not true, nor anything to the purpose, or that tended to the comfort of his afflicted soul, but the reverse; and therefore he could have wished they had never broke silence, but continued as they were the first seven days of their visit; and now, since they had spoken, and had done no good by speaking, but hurt, he desires for the future they would be silent, and say no more:

and it should be your wisdom:
it would be the greatest evidence of it they could give; they had shown none by speaking; it would be a proof of some in them, should they hold their peace; a very biting expression this see ( Proverbs 17:28 ) .

Job 13:5 In-Context

3 Yet I prefer to speak to the Almighty and argue my case before God.
4 But you coat [the truth] with lies; you are all worthless doctors.
5 If only you would shut up and let that be your wisdom!
6 Hear now my argument, and listen to my defense.
7 Would you testify unjustly on God's behalf or speak deceitfully for Him?

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Jb 6:24; 13:13; Pr 17:28
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