Job 5:22

"You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, neither will you be afraid of destruction when it comes."

Key Reflection

In Job 5:22, the text reassures Job that he will be protected from the verbal attacks and slander of others ("scourge of the tongue"), as well as from physical destruction when it comes ("destruction"). The original audience would have understood this in the context of a society where speech could be used to undermine someone's reputation or position. This verse offers comfort by promising divine intervention, ensuring that Job will not suffer the consequences of such verbal attacks and will remain secure even during times of calamity.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

At destruction and famine thou shalt laugh -That is thou shalt be perfectly safe and happy. They shall not come upon thee; and when they approach with threatening aspect, thou shalt smile with conscious security. The word here rendered famine (כפןkâphân) is an unusual word, and differs from that occurring inJob 5:20,רעבrâ‛âb. This word is derived fromכפןkâphan- to languish, to pine from hunger and thirst. It then means the languid and feeble state which exists where there is a lack of proper nutriment. A sentiment similar to that which is here expressed occurs in Martial, iv. 19, 4. Ridebis ventos line munere tectus, et imbres.

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