Job 31:30

30 let then mine ear hear my curse, and let me be a byword among my people in my affliction.

Job 31:30 Meaning and Commentary

Job 31:30

Neither have I suffered my mouth to sin
Which, as it is the instrument of speech, is often the means of much sin; particularly of cursing men, and expressing much bitterness against enemies; but Job laid an embargo upon it, kept it as with a bridle, restrained it from uttering any evil, or wishing any to his worst adversaries; which is difficult to do, when provocations are given, as follows:

by wishing a curse to his soul;
not to his soul as distinct from his body, being the superior excellency and immortal part; that it be everlastingly damned, as wicked men wish to their own souls, and the souls of others, but to his person, wishing some calamity might befall him, some disease seize upon him, or that God would take him away by death: Job would never suffer himself to wish anything of this kind unto his enemy.

Job 31:30 In-Context

28 let this also then be reckoned to me as the greatest iniquity: for I have lied against the Lord Most High.

29 And if too I was glad at the fall of mine enemies, and mine heart said, Aha!

30 let then mine ear hear my curse, and let me be a byword among my people in my affliction.

31 And if too my handmaids have often said, Oh that we might be satisfied with his flesh; (whereas I was very kind:

32 for the stranger did not lodge without, and my door was opened to every one that came:)