Old Testament
Job 29:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And they waited for me as for the rain, and they opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain.
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And they waited for me as for the rain; and they opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain.
What Job 29:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job reflects on his past when he was respected and sought after by others. The imagery of waiting for rain symbolizes hope and expectation. Just as people eagerly anticipate rain for their crops, they looked to Job for guidance and wisdom. The phrase 'opened their mouth wide' suggests a deep desire to receive his words, much like how dry land longs for rain. Job's comparison highlights his former status as a source of nourishment and support for those around him. This verse captures the longing for connection and the importance of being a reliable figure in the community, emphasizing how Job was once a beacon of hope and wisdom for others, much like the life-giving rain.
How to apply Job 29:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to be a source of support and wisdom for those around us. Just as Job was looked to for guidance, we should strive to be reliable and nurturing figures in our communities, offering help and encouragement to others in their times of need.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)
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Job
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 29:23 mean?
Job 29:23 reflects on Job's past when he was respected and sought after for his wisdom. The verse uses the imagery of waiting for rain to symbolize hope and expectation, indicating that people looked to Job for guidance and support.
What is the significance of rain in Job 29:23?
In Job 29:23, rain symbolizes hope and nourishment. Just as people eagerly await rain for their crops, they anticipated Job's words and wisdom, highlighting his role as a vital source of support in his community.
What does 'opened their mouth wide' mean in Job 29:23?
The phrase 'opened their mouth wide' in Job 29:23 suggests a deep desire to receive Job's guidance. It indicates that people were eager and ready to listen to him, much like dry land longs for rain.
What themes are present in Job 29:23?
Job 29:23 encompasses themes of hope, wisdom, community, respect, and guidance. It illustrates the importance of being a reliable figure who provides support and encouragement to others.
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