Should he argue with useless wordsThis phrase reflects the ongoing debate between Job and his friends, particularly Eliphaz, who is speaking in this chapter. The term "useless words" suggests a critique of Job's responses, implying they lack substance or value. In the cultural context of the Ancient Near East, wisdom and eloquence were highly valued, and speech was expected to reflect one's understanding of divine and moral order. Eliphaz accuses Job of speaking without wisdom, which is a serious charge in a society that esteemed wise discourse. This accusation can be connected to
Proverbs 10:19, which warns against the multitude of words leading to sin, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful speech.
or speeches that serve no purpose?
Eliphaz's criticism here is that Job's speeches are not only lacking in wisdom but also fail to achieve any constructive outcome. In the historical context, speeches and dialogues were often used to resolve disputes or impart wisdom. Eliphaz implies that Job's words are futile and do not contribute to understanding or resolving his plight. This reflects a broader biblical theme found inEcclesiastes 5:2, which advises against hasty words before God, highlighting the importance of meaningful and purposeful communication. Theologically, this can be seen as a call to align one's speech with divine wisdom, a concept that finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ, who is described as the Word made flesh (John 1:14), embodying perfect wisdom and purpose in His teachings.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Eliphaz the TemaniteOne of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Eliphaz is speaking to Job, challenging his responses to their counsel.
2.
JobThe central figure of the Book of Job, a man of great faith and integrity who undergoes severe trials and suffering.
3.
TemanA region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz is identified as a Temanite, suggesting he is considered wise and knowledgeable.
Teaching Points
The Power of WordsWords have the power to build up or tear down. Eliphaz challenges Job to consider the impact and purpose of his words. As believers, we should strive to speak words that edify and bring life.
Purposeful CommunicationOur communication should be intentional and meaningful. Eliphaz's critique serves as a reminder to avoid empty rhetoric and focus on speech that aligns with God's truth and wisdom.
Listening Before SpeakingEliphaz's rebuke highlights the importance of listening and understanding before responding. In our interactions, we should prioritize listening to others and seeking God's guidance before speaking.
Self-Reflection in SufferingJob's situation encourages us to reflect on our responses during trials. Are our words and attitudes reflective of faith and trust in God, or are they driven by frustration and despair?
Wisdom in CounselEliphaz, though misguided in his assumptions about Job, reminds us of the value of seeking wise counsel. However, it is crucial to discern and weigh advice against God's Word.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Job 15:3?
2.How does Job 15:3 challenge us to evaluate our speech and arguments?
3.What does "useless words" in Job 15:3 teach about wise communication?
4.How can Proverbs 10:19 help us understand Job 15:3's message?
5.How should Job 15:3 influence our discussions on spiritual matters?
6.In what ways can Job 15:3 guide our conversations to honor God?
7.What does Job 15:3 suggest about the value of human wisdom compared to divine wisdom?
8.How does Job 15:3 challenge the reliability of human reasoning in understanding God's will?
9.In what ways does Job 15:3 reflect the theme of humility before God?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 15?
11.In Job 15:34-35, how can the harsh depiction of divine judgment be squared with other biblical passages emphasizing God's mercy (e.g., Psalm 103:8)?
12.Job 32:1-5 - Why does the text abruptly introduce a new character (Elihu) who wasn't mentioned before, and is this consistent with the earlier chapters?
13.Job 40:1-5: What historical or archaeological evidence supports such a direct, extended conversation between God and a single individual like Job?
14.In Job 15:14-16, how do Eliphaz's claims about universal impurity align with Genesis 1:31, which pronounces creation 'very good'?What Does Job 15:3 Mean
Should he argue?Eliphaz frames his challenge as a rhetorical question: “Should he argue…?” (Job 15:3). The point is simple: incessant arguing reveals more about the speaker’s heart than about the facts.
• Scripture repeatedly warns that constant disputing is a mark of pride rather than faith (Proverbs 13:10;2 Timothy 2:23).
• Earlier, Job himself asked for instruction instead of accusation (Job 6:24), showing that argument divorced from humility is futile.
• God later confronts Job with His own questions (Job 38 – 41), demonstrating that argument with the Almighty must give way to surrender (Romans 9:20).
With useless wordsEliphaz labels Job’s speeches “useless,” implying they add nothing constructive.
•Proverbs 10:19 teaches, “When words are many, transgression is unavoidable,” a warning against speaking past the point of edification.
• Jesus cautions that “for every careless word people speak, they will give an account” (Matthew 12:36), underscoring the seriousness of verbal excess.
•Colossians 4:6 exhorts believers to season speech with grace, showing that words should build up, not merely fill space.
Or speeches that serve no purpose?The phrase highlights talk that lacks benefit, direction, or righteousness.
• Paul urges Timothy to “avoid worthless, foolish talk” because it “leads people into more and more ungodliness” (2 Timothy 2:16).
• Titus is told to “avoid foolish controversies…for they are unprofitable and worthless” (Titus 3:9).
• Even Job later admits, “I spoke of things I did not understand” (Job 42:3), illustrating how purposeless words can cloud rather than clarify.
summaryJob 15:3 warns against argumentative, empty speech. Eliphaz’s charge may misapply to Job’s honest lament, yet the principle stands: words matter. God calls His people to speak with truth, humility, and purpose—never with verbosity that obscures faith or hinders repentance.
(3)
Should he reason with unprofitable talk?--Nay, his arguments, though pretentious and apparently recondite, are unprofitable, and can do no good.
Verse 3. -
Should he reason with unprofitable talk! Such, Eliphaz implies, had been Job's talk, altogether idle and unprofitable. A wise man should have abstained from such profitless arguments. They were speeches wherewith he could do no good.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Should he argueהוֹכֵ֣חַ(hō·w·ḵê·aḥ)Verb - Hifil - Infinitive absolute
Strong's 3198:To be right, reciprocal, to argue, to decide, justify, convictwith uselessלֹ֣א(lō)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nowordsבְּ֭דָבָר(bə·ḏā·ḇār)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1697:A word, a matter, thing, a causeor speechesוּ֝מִלִּ֗ים(ū·mil·lîm)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 4405:A word, a discourse, a topicthat serve noלֹא־(lō-)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nopurpose?יוֹעִ֥יל(yō·w·‘îl)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3276:To confer or gain profit or benefit
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OT Poetry: Job 15:3 Should he reason with unprofitable talk (Jb) 
