Job 15:6

Your own mouth, not mine, condemns you; your own lips testify against you.

Study Bible

Your own mouth
This phrase emphasizes personal accountability and the power of one's own words. In the Hebrew context, the mouth is often seen as a reflection of the heart's condition. Proverbs 18:21 states, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue," underscoring the biblical principle that words can have profound consequences. In the context of Job, this phrase suggests that Job's own words are being used against him, highlighting the importance of speaking truth and maintaining integrity.

condemns you
The Hebrew root for "condemns" is often associated with judgment or declaration of guilt. In the ancient Near Eastern context, legal proceedings were a significant part of societal structure, and condemnation would imply a formal declaration of wrongdoing. This phrase suggests that Job's friends are interpreting his words as evidence of his guilt, reflecting the broader theme of misunderstanding and misjudgment that runs throughout the Book of Job.

not I
This phrase indicates that the speaker, Eliphaz, is distancing himself from the judgment, placing the responsibility back on Job. It reflects a common rhetorical strategy in ancient dialogues where the speaker claims objectivity. This can be seen as a way to assert that the truth is self-evident, rather than a matter of personal opinion, which is a recurring theme in the dialogues between Job and his friends.

your own lips
The repetition of "your own" emphasizes personal responsibility and self-incrimination. In biblical literature, lips are often symbolic of speech and communication. This phrase reinforces the idea that Job's predicament is a result of his own expressions, aligning with the belief that one's words can reveal inner truths and lead to one's downfall if not aligned with righteousness.

testify against you
The concept of testimony is deeply rooted in the legal traditions of the ancient world. In Hebrew culture, a testimony was a serious matter, often requiring multiple witnesses to establish truth. Here, the phrase suggests that Job's own statements serve as a witness against him, a powerful image that underscores the gravity of his situation. This reflects the broader biblical theme of accountability before God, where one's actions and words are ultimately subject to divine scrutiny.

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, offering his perspective on Job's suffering and implying that Job's own words reveal his guilt.

3. Teman
A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz is identified as a Temanite, suggesting he is a man of wisdom and understanding.

4. The Dialogue
The Book of Job is structured as a series of dialogues between Job and his friends, exploring themes of suffering, justice, and divine sovereignty.

5. The Accusation
Eliphaz accuses Job of self-condemnation through his own words, suggesting that Job's complaints and assertions reveal his unrighteousness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Our words have the power to reveal our hearts and can either justify or condemn us. We must be mindful of what we say, as it reflects our inner character and beliefs.

Self-Reflection and Humility
Eliphaz's accusation, though harsh, invites us to examine our own speech and attitudes. Are we quick to justify ourselves, or do we humbly seek God's perspective on our situation?

The Importance of Wise Counsel
While Eliphaz's counsel is flawed, it reminds us of the value of seeking wise and godly counsel in times of distress. We should discern the advice we receive and weigh it against Scripture.

Guarding Our Speech
As believers, we are called to speak truth in love and to use our words to build up rather than tear down. This requires intentionality and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Trusting God's Justice
Job's account ultimately points us to trust in God's justice and sovereignty, even when we do not understand our circumstances. Our words should reflect faith in His ultimate goodness and wisdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 15:6 challenge us to consider the impact of our words on our spiritual lives and relationships?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our speech aligns with the teachings of Jesus, as seen in Matthew 12:37?

3. Reflect on a time when your words may have led to misunderstanding or conflict. How can you apply the wisdom of Proverbs 18:21 to similar situations in the future?

4. How can we discern between wise and unwise counsel, especially when facing trials, as seen in the interactions between Job and his friends?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a heart that speaks words of life and encouragement, in line with James 3:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:6
This verse discusses the power of the tongue and how it can corrupt the whole body, connecting to the idea that one's words can lead to self-condemnation.

Matthew 12:37
Jesus teaches that by our words we will be justified or condemned, echoing the principle that our speech reflects our inner state.

Proverbs 18:21
This proverb highlights the power of the tongue to bring life or death, reinforcing the idea that our words have significant consequences.