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Job 29:22

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After my words they spake not again; and my speech dropped upon them.

After {H310} my words {H1697} they spake not again {H8138}; and my speech {H4405} dropped {H5197} upon them.

After I spoke, they didn't talk back; my words were like drops [of dew] on them.

After my words, they spoke no more; my speech settled on them like dew.

After my words they spake not again; And my speech distilled upon them.

Commentary

Context

Job 29:22 is part of Job's final, poignant monologue before God intervenes (chapters 38-41) and before Elihu speaks (chapter 32). In this chapter, Job vividly recalls his former days of prosperity, honor, and influence, contrasting them with his current state of suffering and scorn. He describes how he was once a respected figure in the community, a wise counselor whose words were eagerly awaited and profoundly impactful. The preceding verses in Job 29 detail the reverence and silence of those who listened to him, establishing the high regard in which he was held. This verse specifically describes the profound effect his wisdom had on his audience, highlighting the authority and weight of his counsel during his time of blessing, a stark contrast to the accusations and silence he now faces from his friends.

Key Themes

  • The Authority of Wisdom: The verse powerfully illustrates the compelling nature of true wisdom and righteous speech. Job's words were so authoritative that they silenced all dissent, demonstrating the profound respect he commanded. This reflects a time when Job's advice was sought after and trusted, a testament to his character and insight before his trials began.
  • Profound Impact of Speech: The metaphor "my speech dropped upon them" signifies a gentle, yet deeply penetrating and nourishing effect. Unlike harsh pronouncements, Job's words were perceived as refreshing and settling, akin to life-giving rain or dew that settles on the earth. This suggests that his counsel brought clarity, comfort, or resolution, rather than contention.
  • Respect and Reverence: The silence of his listeners ("they spake not again") underscores the deep respect and deference shown to Job. It wasn't merely a lack of words, but an acknowledgment of his superior understanding and the weight of his arguments, a stark contrast to the contentious debates he has endured with his three friends throughout the book.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "my speech dropped upon them" uses the Hebrew verb נָטַף (nataph), which literally means "to drip" or "to distill." This word is often used in a poetic or prophetic sense to describe words or teachings that descend gently but powerfully, like dew or rain. For instance, in Deuteronomy 32:2, Moses' teaching is described as dropping like rain. This imagery contrasts with a torrent or flood, suggesting a steady, nourishing, and penetrating influence rather than an overwhelming or forceful one. Job's words were not merely heard; they settled deeply into the hearts and minds of his listeners.

Practical Application

Job 29:22 offers valuable insights into the power and impact of our words:

  • Speak with Wisdom and Grace: Just as Job's speech "dropped" gently yet powerfully, our words should aim to be nourishing, clear, and impactful, rather than harsh or chaotic. Seeking wisdom, as encouraged in Proverbs 2:6, allows our speech to bring life and understanding.
  • The Value of Listening: The silence of Job's audience highlights the importance of attentive listening. When true wisdom is spoken, a respectful and receptive silence allows its message to penetrate deeply.
  • Impact of Character: Job's authority was not just from his words but from his established character and righteous life, which made his counsel respected. This reminds us that our integrity lends weight to our words.
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 (May 20, 2025) 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

  • Deuteronomy 32:2 (8 votes)

    My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:

  • Song Of Solomon 4:11 (3 votes)

    Thy lips, O [my] spouse, drop [as] the honeycomb: honey and milk [are] under thy tongue; and the smell of thy garments [is] like the smell of Lebanon.

  • Matthew 22:46 (3 votes)

    And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any [man] from that day forth ask him any more [questions].

  • Ezekiel 20:46 (3 votes)

    Son of man, set thy face toward the south, and drop [thy word] toward the south, and prophesy against the forest of the south field;

  • Isaiah 52:15 (3 votes)

    So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for [that] which had not been told them shall they see; and [that] which they had not heard shall they consider.

  • Amos 7:16 (2 votes)

    Now therefore hear thou the word of the LORD: Thou sayest, Prophesy not against Israel, and drop not [thy word] against the house of Isaac.

  • Micah 2:6 (2 votes)

    ¶ Prophesy ye not, [say they to them that] prophesy: they shall not prophesy to them, [that] they shall not take shame.