Job 6:21-30

21 "For now, you have become like that -just seeing my calamity makes you afraid.
22 Did I say to you, 'Give me something,'or, 'From your wealth, offer a bribe on my behalf,'
23 or, 'Save me from the enemy's grip,'or, 'Redeem me from the clutches of oppressors'?
24 "Teach me, and I will be silent. Make me understand how I am at fault.
25 Honest words are forceful indeed, but what do your arguments prove?
26 Do you think [your own] words constitute argument, while the speech of a desperate man is merely wind?
27 I suppose you would even throw dice for an orphan or barter away your friend!
28 "So now, I beg you, look at me! Would I lie to your face?
29 Think it over, please; don't let wrong be done. Think it over again: my cause is just.
30 Am I saying something wrong? Can't I recognize trouble when I taste it?

Job 6:21-30 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JOB 6

This and the following chapter contain Job's answer to the speech of Eliphaz in the two foregoing; he first excuses his impatience by the greatness of his afflictions, which, if weighed by good and impartial hands, would be found to be heavier than the sand of the sea, and which words were wanting to express, Job 6:1-3; and the reason why they were so heavy is given, they being the arrows and terrors of the Almighty, Job 6:4; and by various similes he shows that his moans and complaints under them need not seem strange and unreasonable, Job 6:5-7; and what had been said not being convincing to him, he continues in the same sentiment and disposition of mind, and wishes to be removed by death out of his miserable condition, and gives his reasons for it, Job 6:8-13; and though his case was such as required pity from his friends, yet this he had not from them, but represents them as deceitful, and as having sadly disappointed him, and therefore he neither hoped nor asked for anything of them, Job 6:14-23; and observes that their words and arguments were of no force and weight with him, but harmful and pernicious, Job 6:24-27; and in his turn gives them some exhortations and instructions, and signifies that he was as capable of discerning between right and wrong as they, with which this chapter is concluded, Job 6:28-30.

Complete Jewish Bible Copyright 1998 by David H. Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.