Job 29:9
Job 29:9 in Multiple Translations
The princes refrained from speaking and covered their mouths with their hands.
The princes refrained talking, and laid their hand on their mouth.
The princes refrained from talking, And laid their hand on their mouth;
The rulers kept quiet, and put their hands on their mouths;
The leaders remained silent and covered their mouths with their hands.
The princes stayed talke, and layde their hand on their mouth.
Princes have kept in words, And a hand they place on their mouth.
The princes refrained from talking, and laid their hand on their mouth.
The princes refrained talking, and laid their hand on their mouth.
The princes ceased to speak, and laid the finger on their mouth.
The leaders of the people stopped talking [DOU],
Berean Amplified Bible — Job 29:9
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Job 29:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
שָׂ֭רִים
עָצְר֣וּ
בְ/מִלִּ֑ים
וְ֝/כַ֗ף
יָשִׂ֥ימוּ
לְ/פִי/הֶֽם
שָׂ֭רִים
sar
H8269
ruler
N-mp
עָצְר֣וּ
ʻâtsâr
H6113
to restrain
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
בְ/מִלִּ֑ים
millâh
H4405
speech
Prep | N-fp
וְ֝/כַ֗ף
kaph
H3709
palm
Conj | N-fs
יָשִׂ֥ימוּ
sûwm
H7760
to set
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
לְ/פִי/הֶֽם
peh
H6310
lip
Prep | N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Job 29:9
שָׂ֭רִים
sar
H8269
"ruler"
N-mp
A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.
Definition: 1) prince, ruler, leader, chief, chieftain, official, captain 1a) chieftain, leader 1b) vassal, noble, official (under king) 1c) captain, general, commander (military) 1d) chief, head, overseer (of other official classes) 1e) heads, princes (of religious office) 1f) elders (of representative leaders of people) 1g) merchant-princes (of rank and dignity) 1h) patron-angel 1i) Ruler of rulers (of God) 1j) warden
Usage: Occurs in 368 OT verses. KJV: captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward. See also: Genesis 12:15; 1 Kings 22:32; 2 Chronicles 32:21.
עָצְר֣וּ
ʻâtsâr
H6113
"to restrain"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to restrain or hold back, often used in the context of controlling one's actions or emotions. In the book of Psalms, it describes God's power to restrain evil. The word can also mean to assemble or rule over something.
Definition: 1) to restrain, retain, close up, shut, withhold, refrain, stay, detain 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to restrain, halt, stop 1a2) to retain 1b) (Niphal) to be restrained, be stayed, be under restraint
Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] be able, close up, detain, fast, keep (self close, still), prevail, recover, refrain, [idiom] reign, restrain, retain, shut (up), slack, stay, stop, withhold (self). See also: Genesis 16:2; 1 Chronicles 12:1; Psalms 106:30.
בְ/מִלִּ֑ים
millâh
H4405
"speech"
Prep | N-fp
This Hebrew word means a word or speech, and can also refer to a topic or subject. It's used in the Bible to describe what people say or talk about.
Definition: word, speech, utterance Aramaic equivalent: mil.lah (מִלָּה "word" H4406)
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] answer, by-word, matter, any thing (what) to say, to speak(-ing), speak, talking, word. See also: 2 Samuel 23:2; Job 30:9; Psalms 19:5.
וְ֝/כַ֗ף
kaph
H3709
"palm"
Conj | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to the palm of the hand, like in Exodus 29 where it describes the priest's hands being filled with offerings. It can also symbolize power or strength, like in Psalm 16. It's about the hand or its shape.
Definition: : palm/hand 1) palm, hand, sole, palm of the hand, hollow or flat of the hand 1a) palm, hollow or flat of the hand 1b) power 1c) sole (of the foot) 1d) hollow, objects, bending objects, bent objects 1d1) of thigh-joint 1d2) pan, vessel (as hollow) 1d3) hollow (of sling) 1d4) hand-shaped branches or fronds (of palm trees) 1d5) handles (as bent)
Usage: Occurs in 180 OT verses. KJV: branch, [phrase] foot, hand((-ful), -dle, (-led)), hollow, middle, palm, paw, power, sole, spoon. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Chronicles 6:13; Psalms 7:4.
יָשִׂ֥ימוּ
sûwm
H7760
"to set"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
לְ/פִי/הֶֽם
peh
H6310
"lip"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.
Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21
Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.
Study Notes — Job 29:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Job 29:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Job 29:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Job 29:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 29:9
- Trapp's Commentary on Job 29:9
- Ellicott's Commentary on Job 29:9
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 29:9
- Cambridge Bible on Job 29:9
- Barnes' Notes on Job 29:9
- Whedon's Commentary on Job 29:9
- Sermons on Job 29:9
Context — Job’s Former Blessings
7When I went out to the city gate and took my seat in the public square,
8the young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet.
9The princes refrained from speaking and covered their mouths with their hands.
10The voices of the nobles were hushed, and their tongues stuck to the roofs of their mouths. 11For those who heard me called me blessed, and those who saw me commended me,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 21:5 | Look at me and be appalled; put your hand over your mouth. |
| 2 | Job 40:4 | “Behold, I am insignificant. How can I reply to You? I place my hand over my mouth. |
| 3 | Proverbs 10:19 | When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise. |
| 4 | James 1:19 | My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, |
| 5 | Proverbs 30:32 | If you have foolishly exalted yourself or if you have plotted evil, put your hand over your mouth. |
| 6 | Job 7:11 | Therefore I will not restrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul. |
| 7 | Job 4:2 | “If one ventures a word with you, will you be wearied? Yet who can keep from speaking? |
| 8 | Judges 18:19 | “Be quiet,” they told him. “Put your hand over your mouth and come with us and be a father and a priest to us. Is it better for you to be a priest for the house of one person or a priest for a tribe and family in Israel?” |
Job 29:9 Summary
In Job 29:9, we see that the princes were so impressed with Job that they didn't even speak, they just covered their mouths in respect. This shows that Job was a very wise and important man, and people looked up to him. We can learn from Job's example by trying to live with integrity and kindness, so that others will respect and admire us, just like it says in Proverbs 22:1 that a good name is more desirable than great riches. By living in a way that honors God, we can earn the respect of those around us and be a blessing to our communities, as seen in Matthew 5:16 where it says that our good deeds will bring glory to our Father in heaven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the princes covering their mouths with their hands in Job 29:9?
This gesture signifies their deep respect and awe for Job, recognizing his wisdom and authority, much like the reverence shown to God in Isaiah 6:1-5 when the seraphim covered their faces in His presence.
How does this verse relate to the rest of the chapter?
Job 29:9 is part of Job's reflection on his past life, highlighting the respect and admiration he received from his community, as seen in Job 29:7-8 where young men and old men alike showed him deference.
What does this verse reveal about Job's character?
This verse suggests that Job was a man of great wisdom and integrity, commanding the respect of even the most prominent members of society, much like the description of Joseph in Genesis 41:37-40 who rose to a position of authority due to his wisdom and character.
How can we apply the lesson of this verse to our own lives?
We can learn from Job's example by striving to live with integrity and wisdom, earning the respect of those around us, as encouraged in Proverbs 22:1 which states that a good name is more desirable than great riches.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate respect and deference to those in authority over me, as the princes did to Job?
- How can I cultivate the kind of wisdom and character that commands respect from others, as seen in Job's life?
- In what ways can I use my influence and position to bless and serve others, as Job did in his community?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to seek wisdom and guidance from God, that I might be a source of blessing to those around me?
Gill's Exposition on Job 29:9
The princes refrained talking,.... Who were in court before Job came in, and were either talking with one another about indifferent matters, or were giving their opinion in a case before them; but no
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Job 29:9
When I went out to the gate through the city, when I prepared my seat in the street! The great influence Job had over young and old, and noblemen.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 29:9
Refrained talking; either fearing that I should discern their weakness by their words; or desiring to hear my words and sentence, which they readily approved of, and fully assented to. Such an opinion had they of my wisdom, and did not think me such a foolish, erroneous, and impertinent person as you fancy or represent me to be. Laid their hand on their mouth, in token both of their wonder at Job’ s wise speeches and sentences, and of their resolution to be silent. See .
Trapp's Commentary on Job 29:9
Job 29:9 The princes refrained talking, and laid [their] hand on their mouth.Ver. 9. The princes refrained talking] Not only as acknowledging his authority, but as admiring his great eloquence, and hanging upon his lips, as the babe doth upon the breast, the bee upon the flower, or the little bird upon her dam’ s bill. And laid their hand on their mouth] Kissing their hands and adoring me ( adorare est applicare manum ad os), or rather, as stopping their mouths, being ashamed to speak in his presence, whom they knew to be far beyond them in wisdom and elocution. Now of this honour done Job by all sorts of people, Brentius hath this note, Parum est ingentes camelos possidere, &c. It is a small matter, that Job had many camels and flocks of sheep; this was a greater blessing of God upon him, that he was honoured and observed by all sorts. This followeth virtue (as the shadow doth the body) at the heels. To do worthily in Ephrata, is the way to be famous in Bethlehem, Rth 4:11.
Ellicott's Commentary on Job 29:9
(9) The princes retrained talking.—Comp. Isaiah 52:15.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 29:9
Verse 9. The princes refrained talking] They never ventured an opinion in opposition to mine; so fully were they persuaded of the justice and integrity of my decision.
Cambridge Bible on Job 29:9
9, 10. The meaning seems to be that Job’s arrival put a stop to speech and discussion already going on, which was not resumed until he should be heard.
Barnes' Notes on Job 29:9
The princes refrained talking - As a mark of respect, or in awe of his presence.
Whedon's Commentary on Job 29:9
9. Hand on their mouth — Plutarch; speaking of a similar gesture, calls it a symbol of profound silence. See note, Job 21:5.
Sermons on Job 29:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Flood by Lawrence Chambers | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the impending judgment that will come upon those who have been indifferent and careless towards the things of God. He describes a day when s |
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(I Want an Answer) Will I Ever Be Found Out? by Stephen Olford | In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a man who becomes drunk and neglects his faithful dog. One night, an intruder enters the man's garage, but the man is too intoxicat |
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Psalm 37:7 by Bill Ammon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His children. He compares it to a mother comforting and caring for her child. The preacher also di |
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Knowing God Through Brokenness by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God personally and experiencing eternal life as defined by Jesus in John 17. It highlights that eternal life is not just living for |
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Job Chapter 40: by Stan Ford | In this sermon, the preacher references several verses from the Bible, including Matthew 6:26, Revelation 3:8, and Revelation 22:20. He emphasizes the message of the Christian fait |
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Studies in Job-03 Job-3 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Job and explores the theme of God's sovereignty and power. The sermon begins by highlighting God's role as the creator of the un |
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I Am of Small Account; What Shall I by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of humility and silence in our relationship with God, reflecting on Job's acknowledgment of his smallness before the Almighty. He contrasts the |