Job 33:33
Job 33:33 in Multiple Translations
But if not, then listen to me; be quiet, and I will teach you wisdom.”
If not, hearken unto me: hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.
If not, hearken thou unto me: Hold thy peace, and I will teach thee wisdom.
If not, give attention to me, and keep quiet, and I will give you wisdom.
If not, listen to me. Keep quiet and I will teach you wisdom.”
If thou hast not, heare me: holde thy tongue, and I will teach thee wisedome.
If there are not — hearken thou to me, Keep silent, and I teach thee wisdom.
If not, listen to me. Hold your peace, and I will teach you wisdom.”
If not, hearken to me: hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.
And if thou have not, hear me: hold thy peace, and I will teach thee wisdom.
But if you have nothing more that you want to say, then just listen to me, and I will teach you how to become wise.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Job 33:33
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Job 33:33 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
אִם
אַ֭יִן
אַתָּ֥ה
שְֽׁמַֽע
לִ֑/י
הַ֝חֲרֵ֗שׁ
וַ/אֲאַלֶּפְ/ךָ֥
חָכְמָֽה
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
אַ֭יִן
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Part
אַתָּ֥ה
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
שְֽׁמַֽע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
לִ֑/י
Prep | Suff
הַ֝חֲרֵ֗שׁ
chârash
H2790
to plow/plot
V-Hiphil-Impv-2ms
וַ/אֲאַלֶּפְ/ךָ֥
ʼâlaph
H502
to teach/learn
Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-1cs | Suff
חָכְמָֽה
chokmâh
H2451
wisdom
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Job 33:33
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
אַ֭יִן
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
אַתָּ֥ה
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
שְֽׁמַֽע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
לִ֑/י
""
Prep | Suff
הַ֝חֲרֵ֗שׁ
chârash
H2790
"to plow/plot"
V-Hiphil-Impv-2ms
This verb can mean to be quiet or silent, but also to scratch or engrave, like a farmer plowing a field. It is used in various contexts, including being silent or deaf. The KJV translates it in different ways, including 'cease' or 'hold peace'.
Definition: 1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut in, engrave 1a2) to plough 1a3) to devise 1b) (Niphal) to be ploughed 1c) (Hiphil) to plot evil
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] altogether, cease, conceal, be deaf, devise, ear, graven, imagine, leave off speaking, hold peace, plow(-er, man), be quiet, rest, practise secretly, keep silence, be silent, speak not a word, be still, hold tongue, worker. See also: Genesis 24:21; Psalms 28:1; Psalms 32:3.
וַ/אֲאַלֶּפְ/ךָ֥
ʼâlaph
H502
"to teach/learn"
Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-1cs | Suff
This Hebrew word means to teach or learn, and is used in various forms throughout the Bible to describe the process of gaining knowledge or sharing it with others. It can be translated as learn, teach, or utter. It is a key concept in biblical education.
Definition: 1) to learn 1a) (Qal) to learn 1b) (Piel) to teach
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: learn, teach, utter. See also: Job 15:5; Job 35:11; Proverbs 22:25.
חָכְמָֽה
chokmâh
H2451
"wisdom"
N-fs
Wisdom refers to skill, prudence, or good judgment in areas like war, administration, or religion, as seen in the book of Proverbs.
Definition: 1) wisdom 1a) skill (in war) 1b) wisdom (in administration) 1c) shrewdness, wisdom 1d) wisdom, prudence (in religious affairs) 1e) wisdom (ethical and religious)
Usage: Occurs in 141 OT verses. KJV: skilful, wisdom, wisely, wit. See also: Exodus 28:3; Proverbs 5:1; Psalms 37:30.
Study Notes — Job 33:33
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Job 33:33 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Job 33:33
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 33:33
- Trapp's Commentary on Job 33:33
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 33:33
- Cambridge Bible on Job 33:33
- Barnes' Notes on Job 33:33
- Sermons on Job 33:33
Context — Elihu Rebukes Job
31Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak.
32But if you have something to say, answer me; speak up, for I would like to vindicate you.
33But if not, then listen to me; be quiet, and I will teach you wisdom.”
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 34:11 | Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. |
| 2 | Proverbs 5:1–2 | My son, pay attention to my wisdom; incline your ear to my insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. |
| 3 | Psalms 49:3 | My mouth will impart wisdom, and the meditation of my heart will bring understanding. |
| 4 | Proverbs 4:1–2 | Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. For I give you sound teaching; do not abandon my directive. |
| 5 | Proverbs 8:5 | O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools, gain understanding. |
| 6 | Job 33:3 | My words are from an upright heart, and my lips speak sincerely what I know. |
Job 33:33 Summary
[This verse is saying that if we don't have anything to say, then we should just listen and be quiet, so we can learn and gain wisdom. This is similar to what it says in Proverbs 17:28, where it says 'Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.' By being quiet and listening, we can learn from others and gain a deeper understanding of God's ways. We can apply this principle to our everyday lives by taking the time to listen to others and to God's guidance, as seen in Psalm 46:10, where it says 'Be still and know that I am God.']
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'be quiet' in this verse?
In Job 33:33, being quiet means to stop speaking and listen, as seen in Proverbs 10:8, where it says 'The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.'
How can I be taught wisdom by someone else?
According to Job 33:33, wisdom can be taught by someone else, as seen in Psalms 25:9, where it says 'He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.'
Is being quiet and listening a sign of weakness?
No, being quiet and listening is a sign of humility, as seen in James 1:19, where it says 'Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.'
What is the relationship between being quiet and gaining wisdom?
In Job 33:33, being quiet is a prerequisite for gaining wisdom, as it allows us to focus on the teachings and guidance of others, as seen in Proverbs 1:7, where it says 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.'
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I need to be quiet and listen to God's guidance?
- How can I apply the principle of being quiet and listening in my relationships with others?
- What are some ways that I can cultivate a spirit of humility and a willingness to learn from others?
- What are some things that I can do to quiet my mind and focus on God's teachings?
- How can I balance the need to speak up and share my thoughts with the need to be quiet and listen to others?
Gill's Exposition on Job 33:33
If not, hearken to me,.... If he had no objection to make, nor answer to return, then he desires he would attend and listen to what he had further to lay before him: hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 33:33
i.e. What thy wisdom and duty is in thy circumstances.
Trapp's Commentary on Job 33:33
Job 33:33 If not, hearken unto me: hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.Ver. 33. If not, hearken unto me] Elihu is much in calling for attention; so are all the prophets, and Christ the arch prophet, as Matthew 13:9, where, although it might seem superfluous to stir up such to hear, as had come from all parts for that purpose, and now hung upon his holy lips, as the babe doth on the breast, Luke 19:48, yet he, well knowing our heedlessness and fickleness, doth it once and again, leaving all ministers an example to do likewise. Hold thy peace] viz. While I am speaking interrupt me not, but have patience. Some men, as they have fel in aure, gall in their ears (as some creatures are said to have), so they have fire in their tongues, which they presently spit at all that offend them in the least. And I shall teach thee wisdom] A good inducement to thee to hear. I will not trouble thee with trifles, nor detain thee with endless and needless discourses; but set before thee God’ s wise precedings, and bring thee to such a sight of thine own folly as shall render thee restless till set right for heaven.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 33:33
Verse 33. If not] Then I will proceed: listen carefully, keep silence, and I will teach thee what true wisdom is. Job was silent; none of his friends chose to intermeddle farther; and in the next chapter Elihu addresses both Job and them. THERE are some various readings in the MSS. and versions on certain words in the concluding verses of this chapter, which it will be necessary to mention, as they, if adopted, will lead to a somewhat different paraphrase to that given, especially of Job 33:26-28. Ver. 26. For צדקתו tsidkatho, HIS righteousness, one MS. and the Chaldee have כצדקתו ketsidkatho, ACCORDING to his righteousness. Ver. 28. For נפשו naphsho, HIS soul, which is the keri reading, and that which our translation has followed, נפשי MY soul is the reading of many MSS., early editions, the Complutensian, Antwerp, and London Polyglots, the Jerusalem Targum, the Chaldee, the Vulgate, and Coverdale. For חיתו chaiyatho, HIS life, many MSS., early editions, the Complutensian, Antwerp, and London Polyglots, the Jerusalem Targum, Chaldee, Vulgate, and Coverdale, read חיתי chaiyathi, MY life. Both of these are properly the kethib or textual readings in the best editions, but are directed by the Masora to be changed for the keri readings, or those inserted in the margin.
For באור תראה baor tireh, SHALL SEE the light, six of Kennicott's and De Rossi's MSS. have תהיה tihyeh, and twenty-one have כאור caor, thus כאור תהיה caor tihiyeh, SHALL BE AS the light. The whole verse, by these various readings, will stand thus: - "He will deliver MY soul from going into the pit, and MY life SHALL BE AS the light." But if, with the Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic, we read פדה padah, in the imperative mood, then the verse will read thus:-"DELIVER THOU MY SOUL from going down to the pit, and MY life SHALL BE AS the light." On the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th, verses, the following paraphrase has been recommended. Ver. 26. He (Jesus Christ, the head and ransom price) shall pray unto God, (shall make intercession for the transgressors, for he is the Mediator between God and man.) And he (God the Father) will be favourable, (ירצהו yirtsehu, will manifest his good will towards him.) And he shall see his face (פניו panaiv, his faces, God the Father, Son, and Spirit) with joy, (בתרועה bithruah, with exultation or triumph,) for he will render unto man his righteousness, (ושב לאנוש צדקתי yasheb leenosh tsidkatho, "He will restore to wretched man his righteousness;" i.e., he will create the soul anew, and restore to the fallen spirit that righteousness and true holiness which it has lost, and bring it again to its original state of perfection, through the grand atonement mentioned Job 33:24.) But when is it that wretched miserable man shall be brought to this state of salvation? This is answered in Ver. 27.
Cambridge Bible on Job 33:33
31–33. The speaker requests Job to hear his further arguments (Job 33:31); or if he can reply to what has been said, by all means let him do so, for Elihu desires that he should be in the right (Job 33:32); but if not let him listen and learn wisdom (Job 33:33).
Barnes' Notes on Job 33:33
If not, hearken unto me ... - If nothing has been said from which you dissent, then listen to me, and I will explain further the perplexing subject which has excited so much discussion.
Sermons on Job 33:33
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(A Marriage Blessed by God) 1. Build Your Home With Wisdom by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of building godly marriages and homes by focusing on the fear of the Lord, wisdom, and self-control. It highlights the need to prioritize reve |
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Learning the Fear of God (Telugu) by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God and turning away from sin, drawing insights from the book of Job as the first book written by God in the Bible. It highlights t |
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Testimony by Duncan Campbell | In this sermon, the speaker shares three significant experiences from their life story. The first experience was when they were saved by God during an open-air meeting. Although th |
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Peter the Teacher by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the idea of loving life and seeing good days. He emphasizes that many people in the world may have good days, but they do not truly love lif |
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Two Types of Fear by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of the fear of God, contrasting it with earthly fears and the need to maintain a healthy fear of God in our lives. It highlights biblical exam |
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Defiling the Temple of God by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical issue of defiling the temple of God, which he clarifies is not about physical buildings but about the hearts of believers. He reflects on Pro |
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(A Spiritual Leader) 3. Fearing God by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes that a true spiritual leader must have a profound fear of God, which is essential for imparting wisdom to others. He argues that knowledge alone is insufficie |