How long will it be ere ye make an end of words? mark, and afterwards we will speak.

JOB 18:2KJV
Know the Bible

Job 18:2 (KJV)

What does Job 18:2 mean?

Job 18:2 shows one of Job’s friends, Bildad, impatiently asking how long the others will keep talking before letting him speak. Bildad urges them to pay attention to him, promising that he will speak after they listen.

Bildad is addressing Job and the other friends during their heated discussion about Job’s suffering. He is frustrated by what he sees as endless arguments and wants the group to stop talking and listen to his point of view. This verse highlights the tension in the conversation and Bildad’s desire to be heard.

The Hebrew behind Job 18:2

  • "Mark" comes from בִּין (bin), which means "to understand" or "to pay attention." Bildad is not just asking for silence, but for thoughtful attention before he speaks.
  • "Make an end" uses קֵנֶץ (qenets), meaning "to bring something to a conclusion." Bildad is pressing for the arguments to be wrapped up so the discussion can move forward.

Why Job 18:2 matters

  • Job 18:2 clarifies that the friends’ dialogue is not just about comforting Job, but also about competing to have their views heard, revealing the strained dynamics between them.
  • The verse shows Bildad’s impatience and his belief that the conversation is going in circles, which sets the tone for his following speech.
  • Understanding Bildad’s demand for attention helps explain why the friends’ advice often feels more like debate than support, highlighting the book’s theme of misunderstanding in suffering.

Where else these words appear

“words” Hebrew H4405 · used in 38 verses

  • 2 Samuel 23:2 The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.
  • Job 21:2 Hear diligently my speech, and let this be your consolations.
  • Job 33:8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,

“long” Hebrew H5704 · used in 97 verses

  • Genesis 3:19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
  • 1 Samuel 20:15 But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.
  • Job 38:11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?