the young men saw me and withdrew, and the aged rose and stood;
English Standard Version (ESV)
Job wasn't just respected; his presence commanded an automatic, almost instinctive deference from all generations. The contrast highlights how the young, usually brash, respectfully withdrew, while even the aged, normally seated with authority, rose to honor him, showing his profound dignity and influence.
the young men saw me and withdrew, and the aged rose and stood;
English Standard Version (ESV)
In this passage, Job is recounting his former glory before his devastating suffering. He describes how people from all walks of life showed him immense respect, with the younger men stepping aside in awe and the elders rising to their feet as a sign of deep deference. This vivid picture highlights the high esteem and authority Job once held in his community, setting a stark contrast to his current despair.
Imagine walking into a room and having everyone stop talking and stand up. Job describes this kind of respect, but what was it about him that commanded such deference?
In this verse, Job paints a vivid picture of the high regard he once held in his community. The "young men" didn't just see him; they "withdrew." This wasn't fear of punishment, but a deep sense of reverence, a "bashfulness" or "modesty" before someone of Job's stature and wisdom. The "aged," who would normally be shown respect themselves, "rose and stood" as he approached. This wasn't just about age; it was about Job's known character, his wisdom, his justice, and his uprightness. His presence commanded a posture of respect from all.
This shows us that true respect isn't just given based on age or position, but earned through integrity and godly living. When people live righteously, they naturally draw honor.
Why would young men hide from someone they respected? The text hints at more than just admiration – it suggests a conscience stirred by their own actions.
While reverence played a significant role, the scholars also point to another layer: the young men might have withdrawn out of a "consciousness of their guilt and folly." Job, known for his wisdom and justice, would likely discern their wrongdoings or foolishness. Their withdrawal could be an attempt to avoid his piercing gaze or a potential reprimand.
This speaks volumes about Job's former role. He wasn't just a respected figure; he was a standard-bearer. His presence made people aware of their own shortcomings. It's a powerful reminder that living a godly life can bring conviction to those who are not. The discomfort of the young men highlights the accountability that comes with being in the presence of true righteousness.
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Understand the original words
yashish · Hebrew Noun/Adjective
In the biblical wisdom tradition, the aged (elders) are recognized for their accumulated experience, wisdom, and character. Standing in their presence is a prescribed sign of honor and respect for their life experience and authority.
This passage highlights the command to rise and show respect for the aged, directly paralleling the deference shown to Job by the older men in his community.
Proverbs 16:31The 'grey head' being 'a crown of glory' if found in the 'way of righteousness' echoes the veneration Job received, implying his esteemed position was rooted in a righteous life.
1 Samuel 2:8This verse speaks of God raising the poor from the dust and setting them with princes, reflecting Job's elevated status and the profound respect he commanded, a stark contrast to his current suffering.
Luke 14:7-11Jesus' teaching on choosing the most humble place to avoid being asked to move up illustrates the societal dynamics of honor and status, offering a contrast to the automatic honor Job received in his prime.
clarkeJob 29:8: "The young men saw me, and hid themselves: and the aged arose, and stood up."
The young men saw me, and hid themselves - From all classes of persons I had the most marked respect. The Young, through modesty and bashfulness, shrunk back, and were afraid to meet the eye of their prince; and the Aged rose from their seats when I entered the place of judgment. These were the elders of the people, who also sat with the judge, and assisted in all legal cases.
bensonJob 29:8: "The young men saw me, and hid themselves: and the aged arose, and stood up."
Job 29:8-10 . The young men saw me and hid themselves — Out of reverence to my person and dignity, or out of a consciousness of their guilt and folly, which they supposed I might understand either by information from others, or discover by their countenances, and for which they knew I would reprove them, and bring them to shame or other punishment. And the aged arose and stood up — While I either passed by t…
Job wasn't just respected; his presence commanded an automatic, almost instinctive deference from all generations. The contrast highlights how the young, usually brash, respectfully withdrew, while even the aged, normally seated with authority, rose to honor him, showing his profound dignity and influence.
In this passage, Job is recounting his former glory before his devastating suffering. He describes how people from all walks of life showed him immense respect, with the younger men stepping aside in awe and the elders rising to their feet as a sign of deep deference. This vivid picture highlights the high esteem and authority Job once held in his community, setting a stark contrast to his current despair.
In this passage, Job is recounting his former glory before his devastating suffering. He describes how people from all walks of life showed him immense respect, with the younger men stepping aside in awe and the elders rising to their feet as a sign of deep deference. This vivid picture highlights the high esteem and authority Job once held in his community, setting a stark contrast to his current despair.
"the young men saw me and withdrew, and the aged rose and stood;" — Job wasn't just respected; his presence commanded an automatic, almost instinctive deference from all generations. The contrast highlights how the young, usually brash, respectfully withdrew, while e…
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Last reviewed October 2026