3 Should he reason with unprofitable talk? or with speeches wherewith he can do no good?
3 Would they argue with useless words, with speeches that have no value?
3 Should he argue in unprofitable talk, or in words with which he can do no good?
3 Would you talk nonsense in the middle of a serious argument, babbling baloney?
3 Should he reason with unprofitable talk, Or by speeches with which he can do no good?
3 The wise don't engage in empty chatter. What good are such words?
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 15:3
Commentary on Job 15:1-16
(Read Job 15:1-16)
Eliphaz begins a second attack upon Job, instead of being softened by his complaints. He unjustly charges Job with casting off the fear of God, and all regard to him, and restraining prayer. See in what religion is summed up, fearing God, and praying to him; the former the most needful principle, the latter the most needful practice. Eliphaz charges Job with self-conceit. He charges him with contempt of the counsels and comforts given him by his friends. We are apt to think that which we ourselves say is important, when others, with reason, think little of it. He charges him with opposition to God. Eliphaz ought not to have put harsh constructions upon the words of one well known for piety, and now in temptation. It is plain that these disputants were deeply convinced of the doctrine of original sin, and the total depravity of human nature. Shall we not admire the patience of God in bearing with us? and still more his love to us in the redemption of Christ Jesus his beloved Son?