My ears had heard of You
This phrase reflects Job's previous understanding of God, which was based on secondhand knowledge and tradition. In the ancient Near Eastern context, oral tradition was a primary means of transmitting knowledge about God. Job, like many others, would have learned about God through stories and teachings passed down through generations. This hearing represents an intellectual or theoretical knowledge of God, which is common in religious practices where teachings are often received through community and family.

but now my eyes have seen You
Here, Job expresses a transformative experience of encountering God directly. This shift from hearing to seeing signifies a deeper, more personal revelation of God's nature and presence. In biblical terms, seeing often implies a direct and profound understanding or experience. This mirrors other biblical figures who had direct encounters with God, such as Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3) or Isaiah's vision in the temple (Isaiah 6). Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, where the invisible God is made visible and known through Jesus (John 1:14). Job's experience foreshadows the New Testament promise of believers seeing God through Christ (John 14:9). This personal encounter leads to a deeper faith and understanding, moving beyond mere knowledge to a relational experience with the divine.

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He underwent severe trials and suffering, losing his wealth, health, and children, yet remained faithful to God.

2. God
The Almighty Creator who allowed Job's trials to test his faith and ultimately revealed Himself to Job in a profound way, leading to Job's deeper understanding and repentance.

3. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visited Job to comfort him but ended up accusing him of sin, believing his suffering was a punishment from God.

4. The Land of Uz
The region where Job lived, often associated with the ancient Near East, possibly in the area of Edom or northern Arabia.

5. Theophany
The event where God speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, revealing His majesty and wisdom, leading to Job's transformation and deeper insight into God's nature.Hearing vs. Seeing
Job's journey from hearing about God to seeing Him represents a transition from second-hand knowledge to personal experience. This challenges believers to seek a deeper, personal relationship with God.

The Role of Suffering
Suffering can be a tool for spiritual growth and deeper understanding of God's character. Job's trials led him to a more profound encounter with God, reminding us that our struggles can refine our faith.

Repentance and Humility
Job's response to God's revelation was one of repentance and humility. Recognizing our limitations and God's greatness should lead us to a posture of humility and submission.

God's Sovereignty and Wisdom
The book of Job emphasizes God's sovereignty and wisdom, which surpass human understanding. Trusting in God's plan, even when it is not clear, is a key aspect of faith.

Transformation through Encounter
An encounter with God can transform our perspective and life. Job's experience teaches us the importance of seeking God's presence and allowing it to change us.Verse 5. - I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear. Hitherto, i.e., I have had nothing but hearsay knowledge of thee; I have not known thee in any true sense; but now - now that thou hast revealed thy-self - mine eye seeth thee; my spiritual eye is opened, and I begin to see thee in thy true might, thy true greatness, thy true inscrutableness. Now I recognize the distance which separates us, and feel how unreasonable it is that I should contend with thee, argue with thee, assume myself to be competent to pass judgment on thy doings. "Wherefore I abhor myself," etc.

Parallel Commentaries ...


My ears
לְשֵֽׁמַע־ (lə·šê·ma‘-)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

had heard of You,
שְׁמַעְתִּ֑יךָ (šə·ma‘·tî·ḵā)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 8088: Something heard, a sound, rumor, announcement, audience

but now
וְ֝עַתָּ֗ה (wə·‘at·tāh)
Conjunctive waw | Adverb
Strong's 6258: At this time

my eyes
עֵינִ֥י (‘ê·nî)
Noun - common singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5869: An eye, a fountain

have seen You.
רָאָֽתְךָ׃ (rā·’ā·ṯə·ḵā)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person feminine singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 7200: To see


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OT Poetry: Job 42:5 I had heard of you by (Jb)