Job 29:21

Job 29:21 KJV is a poignant verse from Job's final monologue, where he reminisces about his former prosperity, respect, and influence before his trials began. It paints a vivid picture of the high esteem in which he was held by his community.

Context

This verse is part of a larger lament in Job chapter 29, where Job contrasts his glorious past with his current state of suffering and humiliation. He describes a time when he was a revered leader, a source of wisdom and justice for his people. In ancient Near Eastern societies, elders and men of integrity often served as judges and counselors, and Job clearly held such a position of authority and trust. This recollection highlights the immense personal loss and public disgrace Job now endure, making his lament all the more powerful.

Key Themes

• Esteemed Wisdom and Counsel: The verse vividly portrays Job as a man whose advice was highly valued. People sought him out and gave him their undivided attention, recognizing the depth of his insight. This speaks to the profound respect he commanded.
• Authority and Influence: Job's words carried significant weight. The fact that men "kept silence" at his counsel indicates that his judgments and opinions were considered authoritative and worthy of deep consideration, not to be interrupted or lightly dismissed.
• Nostalgia and Loss: By recounting this past reverence, Job underscores the stark contrast with his present abandonment and scorn. This longing for a time when his counsel was sought and respected adds to the pathos of his suffering, emphasizing what he has lost.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in this verse convey a powerful sense of attentive listening and respect:

• "Gave ear" (אָזְנוּ, ʾoznu): This verb implies not just hearing, but a deliberate act of listening with attention and openness, as one would to an oracle or a revered teacher.
• "Waited" (וְיָחִילוּ, v'yachilu): This word suggests an expectant and hopeful waiting, indicating that people anticipated Job's words with a sense of reverence and a desire to receive beneficial guidance. It's not a passive wait, but an active posture of readiness.
• "Kept silence" (יֶחֱשׁוּ, yecheshu): This signifies a respectful quietness, a deliberate cessation of speech to allow Job's words to be fully heard and absorbed. It's a mark of profound deference to his wisdom.

Related Scriptures

The theme of valuing wise counsel is echoed throughout Scripture:

• Proverbs 1:5 states, "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels." This highlights the importance of listening for growth.
• The respect given to Job's counsel can be compared to the reverence for the law and wisdom in Deuteronomy 17:10-11, where people were commanded to listen to the judgment of the priests and judges.
• This verse contrasts sharply with the later disdain Job faces, as described in Job 30:1, where those younger and less significant mock him.

Practical Application

Job 29:21 offers several timeless lessons for us today:

1. The Value of Wise Counsel: In a world often filled with noise and conflicting opinions, this verse reminds us of the profound importance of seeking out and truly listening to those who possess wisdom and integrity.
2. Cultivating Attentive Listening: Job's listeners "gave ear" and "kept silence." This is a challenge for us to practice active, respectful listening, allowing others' words to fully register before responding. This is crucial for healthy relationships and effective communication, echoing principles found in James 1:19.
3. Integrity Builds Influence: Job's past influence was a direct result of his righteous character and sound judgment. Living a life of integrity naturally draws others to seek and respect one's counsel.