Then
The word "then" serves as a transitional marker, indicating a response or a continuation of a dialogue. In the context of the Book of Job, this word signifies a pivotal moment where Job is about to articulate his thoughts following Bildad's speech. The Hebrew root for "then" is "וַיַּעַן" (vaya'an), which is often used to denote an answer or a response. This sets the stage for Job's profound and introspective discourse, highlighting the ongoing nature of the dialogue between Job and his friends. It reminds us of the importance of timing and context in our own conversations with God and others.

Job
Job is the central figure of this biblical book, and his name in Hebrew, "אִיּוֹב" (Iyyov), is thought to mean "persecuted" or "hated." This reflects his role as a man who endures immense suffering and trials. Job's character is emblematic of faithfulness and perseverance amidst adversity. Historically, Job is considered a patriarchal figure, possibly living during the time of the patriarchs like Abraham. His account is a timeless exploration of human suffering, divine justice, and the quest for understanding God's ways. Job's response here is not just personal but represents the universal struggle of faith in the face of inexplicable hardship.

replied
The act of replying indicates a thoughtful engagement with what has been previously said. The Hebrew word used here is "וַיַּעַן" (vaya'an), which conveys the idea of answering or responding. This suggests that Job is not merely reacting but is providing a considered response to the arguments presented by his friends. In the broader scriptural context, Job's reply is part of a larger dialogue that explores themes of justice, righteousness, and the nature of God. His reply is a testament to the importance of dialogue in seeking truth and understanding, encouraging believers to engage deeply with their faith and the questions it raises.

Verses 1-35. - Job, in answer to Bildad, admits the truth of his arguments, but declines to attempt the justification which can alone entitle him to accept the favourable side of Bildad's alternative. Man cannot absolutely justify himself before God. It is in vain to attempt to do so. The contest is too unequal. On the one side perfect wisdom and absolute strength (ver. 4); on the other, weakness, imperfection, ignorance. guilt (vers. 17-20). And no "daysman," or umpire, between them; no third party to hold the balance even, and preside authoritatively over the controversy, and see that justice is done (vers. 33-35). Were it otherwise, Job would not shrink from the controversy; but he thinks it ill arguing with omnipotent power. What he seems to lack is the absolute conviction expressed by Abraham in the emphatic words'" Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?" (Genesis 18:25). Verses 1, 2. - And Job answered and said, I know it is so of a truth. "I freely admit," is., "all that has been said." God would not cast away a perfectly righteous man (Job 8:20); and, of course, he punishes evil-doers. But, applied practically, what is the result? How should man be just with God? or, before God? Apart from any knowledge of the doctrine of original or inherited sin, each man feels, deep in his heart, that he is sinful - "a chief of sinners." Bradford looks upon the murderer as he mounts the scaffold, and says, "But for the grace of God, there goes John Bradford!" Job has a similar conviction, that in the sight of God, righteousness, such as it is, shrinks away into insignificance, and is as nothing, cannot anyhow be relied upon. Such must be the attitude before God of every human soul that is not puffed up with pride or utterly insensate and sunk in apathy.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Then Job
אִיּ֗וֹב (’î·yō·wḇ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 347: Job -- a patriarch

answered:
וַיַּ֥עַן (way·ya·‘an)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6030: To answer, respond


Job 9:1 NIV
Job 9:1 NLT
Job 9:1 ESV
Job 9:1 NASB
Job 9:1 KJV

Job 9:1 BibleApps.com
Job 9:1 Biblia Paralela
Job 9:1 Chinese Bible
Job 9:1 French Bible
Job 9:1 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Job 9:1 Then Job answered (Jb)