KJV ORIGINAL
If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but who can withhold himself from speaking?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
If we try to talk with you, will you be upset? But who can keep themselves from speaking?
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The speaker is asking if it's okay to offer advice, while admitting they feel compelled to say something despite worrying it might cause more pain.
📚 Historical Context
This is Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job's three friends, beginning his first speech to Job after they had sat in silence for seven days witnessing his tremendous suffering. Eliphaz is hesitantly approaching the conversation, knowing Job is in deep anguish from losing his children, wealth, and health, but feeling he must speak.
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