Job 16:5 Meaning and Explanation
“But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage your grief.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Job declares that if their places were swapped, he would use his words to strengthen and comfort them.
What Does Job 16:5 Mean?
Continuing the reversal, Job says that in their place he would not heap up accusations but speak to build them up, his words a balm to ease their sorrow. He sketches the comforter he wishes he had.
This is the gospel shape of speech: lips that strengthen rather than strike. Job, even in anguish, knows what love sounds like. The Lord Himself is the great Comforter whose words give life, and Job here longs for that same grace, modeling the kindness he has not received.
Job 16:5 in the Original Language
asswage (חָשַׂךְ), ''to restrain or hold back'' -- to ease grief by holding it in check, soothing the pain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Job 16:5
What does Job 16:5 mean?
Job declares that if their places were swapped, he would use his words to strengthen and comfort them.