Job 22:29 (KJV)

What does Job 22:29 mean?

Job 22:29 says that when people are brought low or humbled, someone can say, “There is lifting up,” meaning there is hope or restoration, and that God will save those who are humble. The verse points to the idea that humility leads to being rescued or lifted up by God, even when things look bleak.

In this verse, Eliphaz is speaking to Job, arguing that if Job humbles himself before God, he will be restored. Eliphaz is one of Job’s friends, and he believes suffering is a result of wrongdoing, so he urges Job to repent and trust that God helps the humble. The verse uses the image of people being “cast down” to describe hardship, but promises that those who are humble can expect God’s help.

The Hebrew behind Job 22:29

• “Down” (שָׁפֵל, shaphel, H8213) means to be brought low or humbled. The word suggests a state of being reduced, whether in status, spirit, or circumstance, which fits the context of suffering or humiliation.
• “Up” (גֵּוָה, gevah, H1466) is often understood as “lifting up” or “exaltation.” This word highlights the contrast between being brought low and being raised or restored, emphasizing hope after hardship.
• “Save” (יָשַׁע, yasha‘, H3467) means to deliver or rescue. Here, it points to God’s action in helping or rescuing the humble.
• “Humble” (שַׁח, shach, H7807) refers to someone who is lowly or bowed down, not just in circumstance but also in attitude. This word underlines that it is the humble person—one who recognizes their need—who is saved.
• “Person” (עַיִן, ‘ayin, H5869) literally means “eye,” but in this context, it refers to the individual, focusing on the person who is humble.

Why Job 22:29 matters

• Job 22:29 clarifies that being humbled or brought low is not the end; it can be the beginning of restoration, especially for those who are humble.
• The verse shows Eliphaz’s belief that humility is key to God’s help, reflecting a common biblical theme but also his misunderstanding of Job’s situation, since Job’s suffering was not caused by personal wrongdoing.
• This verse connects to the larger conversation between Job and his friends, where they debate the reasons for suffering and the nature of God’s justice, highlighting different perspectives on why people experience hardship.