Job 29:25

I chose out their way, and sat chief, and dwelt as a king in the army, as one [that] comforteth the mourners.

I chose {H977} out their way {H1870}, and sat {H3427} chief {H7218}, and dwelt {H7931} as a king {H4428} in the army {H1416}, as one that comforteth {H5162} the mourners {H57}.

I chose their way [for them], sitting as chief; I lived like a king in the army, like one who comforts mourners.

I chose their course and presided as chief. So I dwelt as a king among his troops, as a comforter of the mourners.

I chose out their way, and sataschief, And dwelt as a king in the army, As one that comforteth the mourners.

Commentary

Job 29:25 is part of Job's poignant lament, where he recalls the days of his former glory and influence before his immense suffering began. This verse vividly describes his respected position in the community, highlighting his leadership, wisdom, and compassionate nature.

Context

In Job 29, Job is delivering his final monologue, reflecting on the stark contrast between his past prosperity and his present desolation. He describes a time when he was highly esteemed, sought after for counsel, and held a position of significant authority and benevolence within his society. This chapter paints a picture of a man who was not only wealthy but also righteous, just, and deeply involved in the welfare of his community. He longs for the days when God's favor was clearly upon him, and he enjoyed the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

Key Themes

  • Exalted Leadership and Authority: Job describes himself as one who "chose out their way" and "sat chief," indicating his role as a primary decision-maker, guide, and respected elder in public assemblies, likely at the city gate where legal and social matters were handled. His presence was akin to that of a "king in the army," signifying not necessarily a literal monarch, but a person of supreme influence, authority, and organizational power among his people.
  • Benevolent Guidance: Despite his high status, Job wasn't a tyrannical ruler. The phrase "as one that comforteth the mourners" reveals his profound empathy and commitment to caring for the vulnerable and sorrowful. This aspect balances his power with compassion, demonstrating a truly righteous and humane leadership style.
  • Lost Honor and Influence: The entire chapter, including this verse, underscores the devastating loss Job experienced, not just of wealth and family, but also of his public standing and the profound respect he once commanded. This highlights the theme of the fragility of human status.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "chief" (ro'sh) literally means "head," emphasizing Job's position as the leading figure or principal person in his community. The phrase "king in the army" (melek ba'tsaba') conveys a sense of commanding authority and respect, much like a general leading his troops or a monarch presiding over his people. It underscores Job's influential presence and ability to bring order and leadership within his ancient Near Eastern society.

Reflection and Application

Job 29:25 offers insights into the qualities of a truly impactful leader: one who possesses both authority and compassion. Job's remembrance serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership involves not only making wise decisions and guiding others (Proverbs 8:15) but also showing profound care for the hurting. In our own lives, whether in family, work, or community, we are called to exercise influence responsibly and with empathy. Like Job, we should strive to be a source of guidance and comfort, especially to those who are struggling or "mourning" (2 Corinthians 1:4). This verse challenges us to consider how we use our positions of influence to serve and uplift others, rather than simply for personal gain or prestige.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 1:3

    ¶ Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

  • 2 Corinthians 1:4

    Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:2

    And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:3

    That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

  • Isaiah 35:3

    Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

  • Isaiah 35:4

    Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompence; he will come and save you.

  • Genesis 41:40

    Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou.
← Back