Job 15:3

Study note

Setting — Eliphaz addresses Job in the midst of their theological dispute, posing a rhetorical question right after condemning empty counsel in verse 2 and immediately before accusing Job of eroding reverence for God in verse 4.

The words — The Hebrew הוֹכֵחַ (ho.Khe.ach) literally means "does he argue?" or "does he rebuke?", while יוֹעִ֥יל (yo.'Il) means "anyone profits" or "is of use." The verse directly questions whether speech that yields no practical benefit or constructive outcome has any legitimate place.

The thread — This scrutiny of speech runs through Matthew 12:36 on accountability for careless words, Colossians 4:6 on seasoning speech with grace, and Job 13:4 where Job’s friends are labeled worthless physicians.

Why it lands — The text requires readers to test their own speech against a standard of utility and purpose, demanding that words be weighed for their actual benefit rather than allowed to function as empty noise.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.