Job 13:5

5 But would that ye were silent, and it would be wisdom to you in the end.

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 Nevertheless I will speak to the Lord, and I will reason before him, if he will.

4 But ye are all bad physicians, and healers of diseases.

5 But would that ye were silent, and it would be wisdom to you in the end.

6 But hear ye the reasoning of my mouth, and attend to the judgment of my lips.

7 Do ye not speak before the Lord, and utter deceit before him?