Job 15:5

For thy mouth uttereth thine iniquity, and thou choosest the tongue of the crafty.

Job 15:5 (KJV)

Context

In the book of Job, Eliphaz the Temanite speaks during a time of deep suffering. Job, a righteous man, has lost everything and now laments openly. Eliphaz, convinced that suffering comes from hidden sin, hears Job’s words as proof of guilt. He responds with an accusation that Job’s own mouth reveals his iniquity.

Meaning

Eliphaz charges Job with choosing “the tongue of the crafty.” The Hebrew phrase can be rendered “thine iniquity teaches thy mouth,” meaning that the wickedness in Job’s heart prompts his speech. Eliphaz believes Job uses deceptive language to make his case appear righteous, mixing good words with bad. This verse highlights a key truth: words reveal what is in the heart. Eliphaz’s accusation, however, is mistaken, as the book later shows Job to be righteous.

Biblical connections

The immediate context continues in verse 6, where Eliphaz says, “Thine own mouth condemneth thee, and not I: yea, thine own lips testify against thee.” He uses Job’s speech as evidence against him. This connects to the principle that the mouth speaks from the heart’s abundance (Matthew 12:34) and that a fool’s mouth pours out folly (Proverbs 15:2). Yet the book of Job ultimately reveals that Eliphaz’s assessment is wrong; God declares Job righteous (Job 42:7). Therefore, this verse warns against judging others’ suffering based on their words. It also reminds us that the crafty tongue will be exposed, while honesty is the better path.

Application

This verse challenges us to examine our own speech. Do our words justify sin or deceive others? Or do they speak truth in love? It also calls us to humility when interpreting another person’s relationship with God. We cannot assume that someone’s words of anguish prove guilt. Instead, we should be compassionate and supportive, recognizing that our understanding is limited. Let us ask God to search our hearts and purify our words, so that we may speak with integrity.

Reflection

Eliphaz and his friends had good intentions, but their understanding of God’s ways was limited. They assumed Job’s suffering was due to sin, yet Job’s experiences were part of a greater spiritual battle. Later, God rebukes them for their misguided judgments. This reminds us to approach others with compassion and to seek understanding before making hasty judgments about their circumstances. May we learn to listen carefully and to speak words that build up rather than condemn.