Job 15:5

For your iniquity instructs your mouth, and you choose the language of the crafty.

Study Bible

For your iniquity
The Hebrew word for "iniquity" is "עָוֹן" (avon), which refers to moral perversity or sin. In the context of Job, Eliphaz is accusing Job of being guided by his own sinfulness. From a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the belief that sin can cloud judgment and influence one's words and actions. Theologically, it underscores the need for repentance and divine guidance to overcome the deceitfulness of sin.

instructs your mouth
The term "instructs" comes from the Hebrew "יָלַף" (yalaph), meaning to teach or train. Eliphaz suggests that Job's speech is being shaped by his own wrongdoing. This reflects the biblical principle that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's heart with God's truth to ensure that one's words are righteous and edifying.

and you choose
The word "choose" is derived from the Hebrew "בָּחַר" (bachar), indicating a deliberate decision or preference. Eliphaz accuses Job of consciously selecting his words to deceive or manipulate. This emphasizes the responsibility individuals have in their speech and actions, highlighting the biblical call to choose righteousness and truth over deceit and falsehood.

the language of the crafty
The phrase "language of the crafty" uses the Hebrew "עָרֻם" (arum), which can mean shrewd or cunning. Eliphaz implies that Job is using clever but deceitful speech, akin to the serpent's cunning in Genesis 3. This accusation serves as a warning against using one's intellect or eloquence to justify sin or mislead others. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, it stresses the importance of integrity and honesty in communication, aligning one's words with God's wisdom rather than human cunning.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, experiencing intense suffering and questioning the reasons behind it.

2. Eliphaz the Temanite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Eliphaz is speaking, accusing Job of sin and suggesting that his suffering is a result of his own wrongdoing.

3. Teman
A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz, being a Temanite, is considered to be a man of wisdom and understanding.

4. The Accusation
Eliphaz accuses Job of speaking deceitfully and suggests that his words are influenced by sin, implying that Job's suffering is a consequence of his own actions.

5. The Dialogue
This verse is part of a larger dialogue between Job and his friends, where they debate the nature of suffering, righteousness, and divine justice.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Our words can reflect the state of our hearts. It is crucial to guard our speech and ensure it aligns with righteousness.

Self-Examination
In times of suffering, it is important to examine our own hearts and actions, seeking God's wisdom to understand if there is any sin that needs to be addressed.

Avoiding False Accusations
Like Eliphaz, we must be cautious not to jump to conclusions about others' suffering, assuming it is always a result of personal sin.

Seeking God's Wisdom
In complex situations, seek God's wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding or assumptions.

The Role of Friends
Friends should offer support and encouragement, not just criticism, especially in times of distress.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Eliphaz's accusation in Job 15:5 reflect his understanding of suffering and sin? How does this compare to the broader biblical teaching on suffering?

2. In what ways can our words reveal the condition of our hearts, and how can we ensure our speech aligns with God's righteousness?

3. How can we apply the principle of self-examination in our own lives, especially during times of trial or suffering?

4. What lessons can we learn from Eliphaz's approach to Job's suffering about how to (or not to) support friends in distress?

5. How do other scriptures, such as James 3:6 and Matthew 12:34, enhance our understanding of the relationship between our words and our hearts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:6
This verse discusses the power of the tongue and how it can corrupt the whole body, similar to how Eliphaz accuses Job of using his words deceitfully.

Proverbs 12:13
This proverb speaks about the consequences of sinful speech, aligning with Eliphaz's assertion that iniquity instructs Job's mouth.

Matthew 12:34
Jesus speaks about how the mouth speaks what the heart is full of, which connects to Eliphaz's claim that Job's speech is influenced by his iniquity.