Job 34:3

For the ear tests words as the mouth tastes food.

Study Bible

For the ear tests words
This phrase draws a parallel between the sensory experience of hearing and tasting, suggesting a discerning process. The Hebrew word for "ear" is "אָזֶן" (ozen), which not only refers to the physical organ but also implies the faculty of understanding and discernment. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom literature often emphasized the importance of listening as a means to gain knowledge and insight. Just as the ear is designed to hear, it is also meant to evaluate and discern truth from falsehood. This highlights the responsibility of the listener to actively engage with and assess the words they hear, much like a judge weighing evidence.

as the mouth tastes food
The comparison to tasting food underscores the natural and necessary process of discernment. The Hebrew word for "taste" is "טָעַם" (ta'am), which conveys the idea of perceiving or evaluating. In biblical times, tasting was not just about flavor but also about determining the quality and safety of food. This metaphor suggests that just as one would not consume food without first ensuring it is good and beneficial, so should one not accept words without careful consideration. The act of tasting implies a deliberate and thoughtful process, encouraging believers to be mindful of the teachings and doctrines they accept. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of wisdom, where understanding and discernment are prized virtues.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elihu
A young man who speaks to Job and his friends, offering a different perspective on Job's suffering. He is the speaker in Job 34.

2. Job
A righteous man who undergoes severe trials and suffering, questioning God's justice.

3. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom.

4. God
The ultimate authority and the one whose justice and wisdom are being examined throughout the Book of Job.

5. The Setting
The dialogue takes place in the land of Uz, where Job and his friends are gathered.

Teaching Points

Discernment as a Spiritual Discipline
Just as the mouth discerns flavors, believers are called to develop spiritual discernment to evaluate teachings and words.

The Role of Wisdom in Testing Words
Wisdom, which comes from God, is essential in discerning truth from falsehood. Believers should seek divine wisdom through prayer and study of the Scriptures.

Guarding Against Deception
In a world filled with conflicting messages, Christians must be vigilant in testing words against the truth of God's Word.

The Importance of Listening
Active listening is crucial in understanding and discerning the truth. Believers should be attentive to God's voice through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

Application in Daily Life
Just as we are careful about what we consume physically, we should be equally cautious about the spiritual and intellectual content we absorb.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elihu's perspective on discernment challenge or support the views of Job's other friends?

2. In what ways can we develop our ability to "test words" in our daily lives, and what role does Scripture play in this process?

3. How does the metaphor of tasting food help us understand the process of discernment in our spiritual lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are not deceived by false teachings or misleading words?

5. How can we apply the principle of testing words to our interactions with others, especially in sharing and receiving advice or counsel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 2:6
This verse highlights that wisdom and understanding come from the Lord, connecting to the idea that discernment is a divine gift.

Hebrews 5:14
Discusses the mature ability to discern good from evil, similar to how the ear tests words.

Psalm 34:8
Invites believers to "taste and see that the Lord is good," paralleling the metaphor of tasting used in Job 34:3.

1 Thessalonians 5:21
Encourages believers to test everything and hold on to what is good, akin to the ear testing words.