Job 17:5 (KJV)

What does Job 17:5 mean?

Job 17:5 warns that someone who flatters friends will bring harm not only to themselves but also to their own children, whose "eyes shall fail," meaning they will suffer or be disappointed. The verse suggests that dishonest or flattering speech can have far-reaching negative consequences, even affecting one's family.

Job is speaking in the middle of his suffering, addressing his friends who have not been honest or supportive. In this verse, Job points out the dangers of insincere words, hinting that such behavior leads to trouble not just for the speaker but for their descendants as well. The context is Job's frustration with false comfort and empty words from those around him.

The Hebrew behind Job 17:5

• "Speaketh" (נָגַד, nagad) means to declare or tell, often with the sense of making something known openly. Here, it highlights the act of openly expressing flattery rather than keeping honest communication.
• "Flattery" (חֶלֶק, cheleq) is often understood as a smooth or deceitful portion, sometimes implying a division or share, but in this context, it refers to flattering or insincere speech given to friends.
• "Eyes" (עַיִן, ayin) and "fail" (כָּלָה, kalah) together form the phrase "the eyes of his children shall fail," which is a Hebrew way of saying they will long for something in vain or be left disappointed, emphasizing the lasting impact of dishonest words.

Why Job 17:5 matters

• Job 17:5 clarifies that the harm of flattery and insincerity is not limited to the person speaking but can extend to their family, showing the seriousness of false speech.
• The verse connects to Job's broader complaint about the lack of genuine support from his friends, highlighting the pain caused by empty comfort.
• Understanding the Hebrew phrase about "eyes failing" helps readers see that this is about deep disappointment or unfulfilled hope, not just physical blindness.