Understanding Job 15:5: Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Job 15:5 (KJV): "For thy mouth uttereth thine iniquity, and thou choosest the tongue of the crafty."
This verse, spoken by Eliphaz the Temanite, reflects his perspective on Job’s predicament. Eliphaz accuses Job of speaking in a way that reveals his inner guilt and chooses deceitful speech. Below are summarized insights from various public domain commentaries.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry notes that Eliphaz charges Job with guilt based on his speech. Henry emphasizes the idea that a person's words can betray their true character. He argues that Job's complaints and expressions of despair are seen by Eliphaz as confessions of wrongdoing. Henry further reflects on the implications of the tongue, relating it to the inner condition of the heart.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Albert Barnes interprets the phrase "choosest the tongue of the crafty" as Job's selection of misleading arguments. He suggests that Eliphaz believes Job uses his words to justify himself, rather than to repent. Barnes points out that crafty speech denotes manipulation and argues that such speech ultimately reflects dishonesty and guilt.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke highlights the significance of the tongue and how it can be used destructively. Clarke elaborates on the idea that Job, by speaking out against his suffering, is illustrating a deeper issue of pride and rebellion against God. Clarke insists that Eliphaz’s accusation reveals a common misunderstanding regarding suffering and divine retribution.
Bible Verse Cross-References
Job 15:5 connects to several Bible verses that provide further understanding and context:
- Proverbs 18:21: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." - This verse emphasizes the potency of words and their impact on life and death.
- Matthew 12:34: "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." - This verse supports the idea that speech reveals one’s inner thoughts and character.
- James 3:6: "And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity." - This affirms the destructive potential of careless speech.
- Psalm 34:13: "Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile." - A reminder of the importance of speaking righteousness.
- Proverbs 12:18: "There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health." - Contrasts foolish speech with wise speech.
- Job 6:24: "Teach me, and I will hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred." - Job’s desire to understand his suffering relates to his speech.
- Ecclesiastes 5:2: "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God." - Encourages careful consideration before speaking.
Thematic Bible Verse Connections
In analyzing Job 15:5, we can see connections with themes such as:
- **The Power of Speech**: Many verses discuss the implications of what we say and how it reflects our internal state.
- **Suffering and Speech**: Job’s utterances in response to his suffering provide insights into human expression amid pain.
- **Justice and Retribution**: The surrounding context of Job’s story focuses on the perceived justice of God, often interpreted through the words of the characters involved.
Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts
Understanding Job 15:5 requires employing tools for Bible cross-referencing. These tools enable deeper insights into the text and facilitate the exploration of connections between Bible verses. Here are methods and resources:
- Bible Concordance: A comprehensive collection of verses that can help locate themes and ideas.
- Bible Cross-reference Guide: A directional tool for finding verses related to particular themes or ideas.
- Cross-reference Bible Study: Group studies based on linked verses to understand larger doctrines and themes.
Conclusion
Job 15:5 serves as a poignant reminder of the ways in which our words can reveal our innermost thoughts and feelings. The perspectives from prominent commentaries underscore the importance of recognizing our speech as a reflection of our relationship with God. By cross-referencing related Bible verses, we can gain a more holistic view of the implications contained within this single verse.
