Job 8:10

Will they not teach you and tell you, and speak from their understanding?

Study Bible

Will they not teach you and tell you,
This phrase suggests the importance of learning from the wisdom of others, particularly those who have lived longer and experienced more. In the context of the Book of Job, Bildad is urging Job to consider the teachings of the ancestors. This reflects the cultural value placed on tradition and the wisdom of elders in ancient Near Eastern societies. The Bible often emphasizes the importance of heeding wise counsel, as seen in Proverbs 11:14, which states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."

and speak from their understanding?
Here, the emphasis is on the depth of insight that comes from accumulated knowledge and experience. The elders' understanding is not just theoretical but practical, having been tested over time. This aligns with the biblical theme that true wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). The phrase also implies that human understanding is limited and should be supplemented by divine revelation, as seen throughout the wisdom literature. In the broader narrative of Job, this highlights the tension between human wisdom and divine wisdom, a theme that culminates in God's speeches later in the book, where He reveals the limitations of human understanding compared to His omniscience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bildad the Shuhite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Bildad is known for his traditional and conservative views, often emphasizing the justice of God and the importance of repentance.

2. Job
A righteous man tested by God through severe trials. His account is a profound exploration of suffering, faith, and divine justice.

3. Ancient Wisdom
Bildad appeals to the wisdom of the ancestors, suggesting that their teachings hold valuable insights into understanding God's ways.

Teaching Points

Value of Tradition and Ancestral Wisdom
Bildad emphasizes the importance of learning from the past. In our lives, we should respect and consider the wisdom passed down through generations, understanding that it can provide valuable insights into our current situations.

Discernment in Wisdom
While tradition holds value, it is crucial to discern and align it with God's truth. Not all traditional views are infallible, and we must seek God's guidance to understand and apply them correctly.

The Role of Community in Understanding
Bildad's approach suggests that community plays a role in teaching and understanding. Engaging with others in our faith community can provide diverse perspectives and deeper insights into God's word.

Seeking Godly Wisdom
True wisdom comes from God. While human understanding is valuable, it should always be supplemented by seeking divine wisdom through prayer and scripture study.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Bildad's appeal to ancestral wisdom challenge or affirm your current understanding of seeking guidance in difficult times?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the wisdom of past generations into your daily decision-making while ensuring it aligns with biblical truth?

3. How can you balance the wisdom of tradition with the need for personal discernment and direct guidance from God?

4. Reflect on a time when community input helped you gain a better understanding of a situation. How can you foster such community interactions in your spiritual journey?

5. Considering James 1:5, how can you actively seek God's wisdom in your life, and what steps can you take to ensure you are open to receiving it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 1:5-6
This passage emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding, similar to Bildad's appeal to learn from the past.

Deuteronomy 32:7
Encourages remembering the days of old and considering the years of many generations, aligning with Bildad's call to learn from the wisdom of the ancestors.

James 1:5
Highlights the New Testament perspective on seeking wisdom from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.