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cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad14.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/job/31-33.htm" title="Job 31:33">◄</a> Job 31:34 <a href="/job/31-35.htm" title="Job 31:35">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/job/31.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/job/31.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />because I so feared the crowd and so dreaded the contempt of the clans that I kept silent and would not go outside—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/job/31.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Have I feared the crowd or the contempt of the masses, so that I kept quiet and stayed indoors?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/job/31.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />because I stood in great fear of the multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silence, and did not go out of doors—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/job/31.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />because I greatly feared the crowds and the contempt of the clans terrified me, so that I kept silent and would not go outside—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/job/31.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me, that I kept silence, <i>and</i> went not out of the door?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/job/31.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And dreaded the contempt of families, So that I kept silence <i>And</i> did not go out of the door—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/job/31.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude And the contempt of families terrified me, And I kept silent and did not go out of doors?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/job/31.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the contempt of families terrified me, And kept silent and did not go out of doors?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/job/31.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the contempt of families terrified me, And kept silent and did not go out of doors?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/job/31.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the contempt of families terrified me, And I kept silent and did not go out of doors—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/job/31.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the contempt of families terrified me, So that I kept silence <i>and</i> did not acknowledge my sin and did not go out of the door?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/job/31.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />because I greatly feared the crowds and because the contempt of the clans terrified me, so I grew silent and would not go outside?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/job/31.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />because I greatly feared the crowds, and the contempt of the clans terrified me, so I grew silent and would not go outside? <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/job/31.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the contempt of families terrified me, So that I kept silence, and went not out of the door?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/job/31.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />And the fear of public disgrace never forced me to keep silent about what I had done. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/job/31.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silence, and went not out of the door--<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/job/31.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />because I dreaded the large, noisy crowd and because the contempt of the [local] mobs terrified me so that I kept quiet and didn't go outside....<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/job/31.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I have never feared what people would say; I have never kept quiet or stayed indoors because I feared their scorn. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/job/31.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Have I feared large crowds? Has my family's contempt ever terrified me so that I remained silent and wouldn't go outside?"<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/job/31.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />because I greatly feared the crowds and the contempt of the clans terrified me, so that I kept silent and would not go outside?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/job/31.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />because I was terrified of the great multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I remained silent and would not go outdoors--<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/job/31.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />because I feared the great multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silence, and did not go out of the door--<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/job/31.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me, that I kept silence, and went not out of the door?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/job/31.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />because I feared the great multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silence, and didn’t go out of the door— <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/job/31.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Because I fear a great multitude, "" And the contempt of families frightens me, "" Then I am silent, I do not go out of the opening.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/job/31.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Because I fear a great multitude, And the contempt of families doth affright me, Then I am silent, I go not out of the opening.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/job/31.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />If I, shall fear a great multitude, and the contempt of families terrify me, and I will be silent and not go out of my door.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/job/31.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />If I have been afraid at a very great multitude, and the contempt of kinsmen hath terrified me: and I have not rather held my peace, and not gone out of the door. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/job/31.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />if I became frightened by an excessive crowd, and the disrespect of close relatives alarmed me, so that I would much rather have remained silent or have gone out the door;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/job/31.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude and the scorn of the clans terrified me— then I should have remained silent, and not come out of doors! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/job/31.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />because I stood in great fear of the multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silence, and did not go out of doors—<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/job/31.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />If I have trampled upon the rights of the others (but on the contrary, it is the multitude of families which has ruined me. Nor have I turned away anyone at the door; or engaged in gossip) let the provocations of God lay me low!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/job/31.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And if I have trampled the power of many, (but it is an abundance of families that ruined me) and a son of man I have not turned away at the gate, and I have not ruminated on the speech of the lips) the provocations of God have humbled me<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/job/31.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Because I feared the great multitude, And the most contemptible among families terrified me, So that I kept silence, and went not out of the door.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/job/31.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />(for I did not stand in awe of a great multitude, so as not to declare boldly before them:) and if too I permitted a poor man to go out of my door with an empty bosom:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/job/31-34.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XAwuD5NuZq0?start=4783" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/job/31.htm">Job's Final Appeal</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">33</span>if I have covered my transgressions like Adam by hiding my guilt in my heart, <span class="reftext">34</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">because</a> <a href="/hebrew/7227.htm" title="7227: rab·bāh (Adj-fs) -- Much, many, great. By contracted from rabab; abundant.">I greatly</a> <a href="/hebrew/6206.htm" title="6206: ’e·‘ĕ·rō·wṣ (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To cause to tremble, tremble. A primitive root; to awe or to dread; hence, to harass.">feared</a> <a href="/hebrew/1995.htm" title="1995: hā·mō·wn (N-ms) -- A sound, murmur, roar, crowd, abundance. Or hamon; from hamah; a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth.">the crowds</a> <a href="/hebrew/937.htm" title="937: ū·ḇūz- (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Contempt. From buwz; disrespect.">and the contempt</a> <a href="/hebrew/4940.htm" title="4940: miš·pā·ḥō·wṯ (N-fp) -- From shaphah; a family, i.e. Circle of relatives; figuratively, a class, a species or sort; by extens. A tribe or people.">of the clans</a> <a href="/hebrew/2865.htm" title="2865: yə·ḥit·tê·nî (V-Hifil-Imperf-3ms:: 1cs) -- A primitive root; properly, to prostrate; hence, to break down, either by violence, or by confusion and fear.">terrified me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1826.htm" title="1826: wā·’ed·dōm (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs) -- A prim root; to be dumb; by implication, to be astonished, to stop; also to perish.">so that I kept silent</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">and would not</a> <a href="/hebrew/3318.htm" title="3318: ’ê·ṣê (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to go out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim.">go outside</a> <a href="/hebrew/6607.htm" title="6607: p̄ā·ṯaḥ (N-ms) -- Opening, doorway, entrance. From pathach; an opening, i.e. Door or entrance way.">—</a> </span><span class="reftext">35</span>(Oh, that I had one to hear me! Here is my signature. Let the Almighty answer me; let my accuser compose an indictment.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/29-25.htm">Proverbs 29:25</a></span><br />The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/51-7.htm">Isaiah 51:7</a></span><br />Listen to Me, you who know what is right, you people with My law in your hearts: Do not fear the scorn of men; do not be broken by their insults.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/10-28.htm">Matthew 10:28</a></span><br />Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/12-42.htm">John 12:42-43</a></span><br />Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue. / For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a></span><br />Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/15-24.htm">1 Samuel 15:24</a></span><br />Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have transgressed the LORD’s commandment and your instructions, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/1-8.htm">Jeremiah 1:8</a></span><br />Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/12-4.htm">Luke 12:4-5</a></span><br />I tell you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. / But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16</a></span><br />I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/1-7.htm">2 Timothy 1:7-8</a></span><br />For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. / So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me, His prisoner. Instead, join me in suffering for the gospel by the power of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/27-1.htm">Psalm 27:1</a></span><br />Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a></span><br />Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/4-19.htm">Acts 4:19-20</a></span><br />But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. / For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/3-14.htm">1 Peter 3:14-16</a></span><br />But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” / But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, / keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/13-6.htm">Hebrews 13:6</a></span><br />So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me, that I kept silence, and went not out of the door?</p><p class="hdg">Did I</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/23-2.htm">Exodus 23:2</a></b></br> Thou shalt not follow a multitude to <i>do</i> evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest <i>judgment</i>:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/29-25.htm">Proverbs 29:25</a></b></br> The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/38-4.htm">Jeremiah 38:4,5,16,19</a></b></br> Therefore the princes said unto the king, We beseech thee, let this man be put to death: for thus he weakeneth the hands of the men of war that remain in this city, and the hands of all the people, in speaking such words unto them: for this man seeketh not the welfare of this people, but the hurt… </p><p class="hdg">the contempt</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/22-8.htm">Job 22:8</a></b></br> But <i>as for</i> the mighty man, he had the earth; and the honourable man dwelt in it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/34-19.htm">Job 34:19</a></b></br> <i>How much less to him</i> that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor? for they all <i>are</i> the work of his hands.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/32-27.htm">Exodus 32:27</a></b></br> And he said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, <i>and</i> go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbour.</p><p class="hdg">that I</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/esther/4-11.htm">Esther 4:11,14</a></b></br> All the king's servants, and the people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, <i>there is</i> one law of his to put <i>him</i> to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/24-11.htm">Proverbs 24:11,12</a></b></br> If thou forbear to deliver <i>them that are</i> drawn unto death, and <i>those that are</i> ready to be slain; … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/amos/5-11.htm">Amos 5:11-13</a></b></br> Forasmuch therefore as your treading <i>is</i> upon the poor, and ye take from him burdens of wheat: ye have built houses of hewn stone, but ye shall not dwell in them; ye have planted pleasant vineyards, but ye shall not drink wine of them… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_chronicles/32-18.htm">Affright</a> <a href="/job/31-22.htm">Body</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/12-30.htm">Clans</a> <a href="/job/16-10.htm">Contempt</a> <a href="/job/12-5.htm">Contemptible</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/30-17.htm">Crowd</a> <a href="/job/31-32.htm">Door</a> <a href="/job/31-32.htm">Doors</a> <a href="/job/31-23.htm">Dreaded</a> <a href="/nehemiah/12-23.htm">Families</a> <a href="/job/31-23.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/job/3-25.htm">Feared</a> <a href="/job/31-25.htm">Great</a> <a href="/job/31-33.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/job/11-2.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/job/31-9.htm">Opening</a> <a href="/job/31-32.htm">Outside</a> <a href="/job/29-22.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/job/29-21.htm">Silence</a> <a href="/job/29-21.htm">Silent</a> <a href="/job/30-1.htm">Sport</a> <a href="/job/30-28.htm">Stood</a> <a href="/job/23-16.htm">Terrified</a> <a href="/job/15-24.htm">Terrify</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/2-5.htm">Affright</a> <a href="/job/38-29.htm">Body</a> <a href="/jeremiah/2-4.htm">Clans</a> <a href="/psalms/31-18.htm">Contempt</a> <a href="/psalms/31-11.htm">Contemptible</a> <a href="/psalms/42-4.htm">Crowd</a> <a href="/psalms/118-20.htm">Door</a> <a href="/job/38-8.htm">Doors</a> <a href="/psalms/89-7.htm">Dreaded</a> <a href="/psalms/22-27.htm">Families</a> <a href="/job/32-6.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/job/37-22.htm">Feared</a> <a href="/job/32-9.htm">Great</a> <a href="/job/32-4.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/job/32-7.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/job/36-15.htm">Opening</a> <a href="/psalms/41-6.htm">Outside</a> <a href="/job/32-4.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/job/41-12.htm">Silence</a> <a href="/job/32-16.htm">Silent</a> <a href="/job/34-7.htm">Sport</a> <a href="/job/32-16.htm">Stood</a> <a href="/job/41-25.htm">Terrified</a> <a href="/job/33-7.htm">Terrify</a><div class="vheading2">Job 31</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/job/31-1.htm">Job makes a solemn protestation of his integrity in several duties</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/job/31.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/job/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/job/31.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>because I greatly feared the crowds</b><br>In the ancient Near Eastern context, societal opinion held significant power. Job's mention of fearing the crowds reflects the cultural importance of community reputation and honor. Fear of public opinion could lead individuals to conform to societal norms, even when those norms conflicted with personal integrity. This phrase highlights the pressure to maintain social standing, which was crucial in a communal society where one's identity and security were tied to the community. Biblically, this fear contrasts with the call to fear God above man (<a href="/proverbs/29-25.htm">Proverbs 29:25</a>).<p><b>and the contempt of the clans terrified me</b><br>Clans were extended family groups that formed the backbone of ancient society. The contempt of these groups could lead to social ostracism, loss of support, and even economic ruin. Job's fear of their contempt underscores the weight of communal judgment and the potential consequences of being out of favor with one's kin. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the tension between human approval and divine approval, as seen in <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a>, where Paul speaks of seeking God's approval over man's.<p><b>so that I kept silent</b><br>Silence in the face of injustice or false accusation can be a form of self-preservation, but it can also be seen as complicity. Job's silence may indicate the struggle between maintaining personal integrity and the fear of exacerbating his situation. This echoes the biblical theme of the righteous suffering in silence, as seen in <a href="/isaiah/53-7.htm">Isaiah 53:7</a>, where the suffering servant, a type of Christ, is described as silent before his accusers.<p><b>and would not go outside—</b><br>Staying inside symbolizes withdrawal and isolation, possibly to avoid confrontation or further shame. In Job's context, going outside could mean facing public scrutiny or engaging in disputes. This phrase can be connected to the broader biblical narrative of isolation during times of trial, as seen in the life of Elijah (<a href="/1_kings/19-3.htm">1 Kings 19:3-4</a>) when he fled to the wilderness. It also foreshadows the isolation Christ experienced during His passion, where He was abandoned and left to face His accusers alone.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/j/job.htm">Job</a></b><br>A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, known for his immense suffering and unwavering faith.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_crowds.htm">The Crowds</a></b><br>Represents the general populace or society that Job feared might judge or scorn him.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_clans.htm">The Clans</a></b><br>Refers to smaller, familial or tribal groups within the society that could exert social pressure or contempt.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/j/job's_suffering.htm">Job's Suffering</a></b><br>The broader context of Job's trials, where he loses his wealth, health, and family, yet maintains his integrity and faith in God.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/j/job's_defense.htm">Job's Defense</a></b><br>In <a href="/bsb/job/31.htm">Job 31</a>, Job is making a final defense of his righteousness, listing ways he has lived a life of integrity.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/f/fear_of_man_vs._fear_of_god.htm">Fear of Man vs. Fear of God</a></b><br>Job's fear of societal judgment highlights the tension between fearing man and fearing God. Believers are encouraged to prioritize God's approval over human opinion.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_the_face_of_pressure.htm">Integrity in the Face of Pressure</a></b><br>Job's commitment to righteousness despite external pressures serves as a model for maintaining integrity when faced with societal or peer pressure.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_silence.htm">The Power of Silence</a></b><br>Job's silence due to fear of contempt can remind us of the importance of speaking truth and standing firm in our convictions, even when it is difficult.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_influence.htm">Community Influence</a></b><br>The influence of community and societal norms can be powerful. Believers should be aware of these influences and ensure they align with biblical principles.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/courage_to_stand_alone.htm">Courage to Stand Alone</a></b><br>Job's experience teaches the value of having the courage to stand alone in faith, even when it means facing misunderstanding or rejection from others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_job_31.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Job 31</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_do_job_31_curses_compare_to_nt_mercy.htm">How do Job's self-imposed curses in Job 31 compare with New Testament passages emphasizing mercy and forgiveness?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_job_34_31-32_align_with_free_will.htm">Job 34:31-32 - Elihu suggests people should submit and learn; how do we reconcile this with free will and instances where righteous behavior goes unrewarded?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_is_god_silent_if_job's_pleas_lack_merit.htm">In light of Job 35:16, why would a merciful God remain silent if Job's pleas are without merit, given other scriptures showing God responding to human need?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_job's_prosperity_historically_plausible.htm">Could Job's remarkable prosperity and divine favor (Job 29:4-6) be historically or scientifically plausible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/job/31.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 34.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Did I fear a great multitude!</span> rather, <span class="accented">because</span> I <span class="accented">feared the great multitude</span> or <span class="accented">the great assembly</span>; <span class="accented">i.e</span>. the gathering of the people in the gate on occasions of public business. It' Job had been conscious of any great and heinous <span class="accented">sins</span>' he would not have led the open and public life which, previously to his calamities, he had always led (<a href="/job/29-7.htm">Job 29:7-10, 21-25</a>); he would have been afraid to make his appearance at public meetings, lest his sins should have become known, and should draw upon him scorn and contempt, instead of the respect and acclamations to which he was accustomed. <span class="cmt_word">Or did the contempt of families terrify me?</span> rather, <span class="accented">and the contempt of families terrified me.</span> The contempt of the assembled tribes and families, which might have been poured out upon him at such meetings, would have been quite sufficient to prevent his attending them. If by any accident he had found himself at one, and had seen that he was looked upon with disfavour, he must have kept silence in order to avoid observation. Prudence would have counselled that more complete abstention which is implied in the phrase, and went not out of the door; <span class="accented">i.e.</span> "stayed at home in mine own house." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/job/31-34.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">because</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּ֤י</span> <span class="translit">(kî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I greatly</span><br /><span class="heb">רַבָּ֗ה</span> <span class="translit">(rab·bāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7227.htm">Strong's 7227: </a> </span><span class="str2">Much, many, great</span><br /><br /><span class="word">feared</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶֽעֱר֨וֹץ ׀</span> <span class="translit">(’e·‘ĕ·rō·wṣ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6206.htm">Strong's 6206: </a> </span><span class="str2">To cause to tremble, tremble</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the crowds,</span><br /><span class="heb">הָ֘מ֤וֹן</span> <span class="translit">(hā·mō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1995.htm">Strong's 1995: </a> </span><span class="str2">A noise, tumult, crowd, disquietude, wealth</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and the contempt</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבוּז־</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇūz-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_937.htm">Strong's 937: </a> </span><span class="str2">Disrespect</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of the clans</span><br /><span class="heb">מִשְׁפָּח֥וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(miš·pā·ḥō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4940.htm">Strong's 4940: </a> </span><span class="str2">A family, circle of relatives, a class, a species, sort, a tribe, people</span><br /><br /><span class="word">terrified me,</span><br /><span class="heb">יְחִתֵּ֑נִי</span> <span class="translit">(yə·ḥit·tê·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2865.htm">Strong's 2865: </a> </span><span class="str2">To prostrate, to break down, either, by violence, by confusion and fear</span><br /><br /><span class="word">so that I kept silent</span><br /><span class="heb">וָ֝אֶדֹּ֗ם</span> <span class="translit">(wā·’ed·dōm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1826.htm">Strong's 1826: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be dumb, to be astonished, to stop, to perish</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and would not</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹא־</span> <span class="translit">(lō-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">go outside—</span><br /><span class="heb">אֵ֥צֵא</span> <span class="translit">(’ê·ṣê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3318.htm">Strong's 3318: </a> </span><span class="str2">To go, bring, out, direct and proxim</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/job/31-34.htm">Job 31:34 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/job/31-34.htm">OT Poetry: Job 31:34 Because I feared the great multitude (Jb) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/job/31-33.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Job 31:33"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Job 31:33" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/job/31-35.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Job 31:35"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Job 31:35" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>