Job 29:24
◄  Job 29:24  ►
New International Version (© 2011)
When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them.

King James Bible
If I laughed on them, they believed it not; and the light of my countenance they cast not down.

American Standard Version
I smiled on them, when they had no confidence; And the light of my countenance they cast not down.

Young's Literal Translation
I laugh unto them -- they give no credence, And the light of my face cause not to fall.

Job 29:24 Additional Translations
Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

I laughed on them, they believed it not - Similar to that expression in the Gospel, Luke 24:41 : And while they believed not for joy, and wondered, he said - . Our version is sufficiently perspicuous, and gives the true sense of the original, only it should be read in the indicative and not in the subjunctive mood: I laughed on them - they believed it not. We have a similar phrase: The news was too good to be true.

The light of my countenance - This evidence of my benevolence and regard. A smile is, metaphorically, the light of the countenance.

They cast not down - They gave me no occasion to change my sentiments or feelings towards them. I could still smile upon them, and they were then worthy of my approbation. Their change he refers to in the beginning of the next chapter.

Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

they believed

Genesis 45:26 And told him, saying, Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt. And Jacob's heart fainted...

Psalm 126:1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

Luke 24:41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said to them, Have you here any meat?

the light

Psalm 4:6 There be many that say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift you up the light of your countenance on us.

Psalm 89:15 Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of your countenance.

Job 29:24 Parallel Commentaries
Believe Believed Cast Cause Clouded Confidence Countenance Credence Face Fall Fear Hope Laugh Light Precious Reject Scarcely Troubled
Believe Believed Cast Cause Clouded Confidence Countenance Credence Face Fall Fear Hope Laugh Light Precious Reject Scarcely Troubled
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Job 29:23 They waited for me as for showers and drank in my words as the spring rain.
Job 29:25 I chose the way for them and sat as their chief; I dwelt as a king among his troops; I was like one who comforts mourners.