Definition: 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?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Job 31:34. It’s a really interesting and complex passage about a powerful king feeling immense fear. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a king, Job, who feels incredibly anxious and terrified – almost paralyzed with fear – because of the opinions and reactions of his family and friends. He's experiencing a moment where he’s overwhelmed by negativity. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me?" This is the core of the question. The king isn't just scared of one person. He’s terrified of the entire group – his family and friends – expressing negative opinions about him. “Contempt” means they are criticizing or belittling him. It suggests a deep feeling of shame and being judged harshly. "That I kept silence, [and] went not out of the door?" This is where it gets really revealing. He’s saying that he stopped speaking, refusing to leave his home. He's essentially shutting himself off from the outside world – a sign of extreme anxiety and vulnerability. So, what does this all mean? It suggests a few things: Overwhelming Pressure: The king is under immense pressure because of the opinions of those around him. He feels like he’s constantly being scrutinized and judged. Internal Struggle: He's battling an internal struggle – his fear is overwhelming him, causing him to withdraw. A Loss of Perspective: He's prioritizing fear over reason and judgment. His focus is on the negative reactions of others rather than his own actions or worth. What’s the point of this? The Bible often uses stories like this to show us that we shouldn’t let our worries control us. It’s a reminder to: Don't let fear dictate your life: It's important to be mindful of how your thoughts and feelings affect you, especially when others are criticizing you. Seek wisdom and guidance: The verse encourages seeking advice and perspective from wise people – like the prophet (Job) – who can help us understand our situation better. In short, Job’s experience highlights a moment of intense anxiety fueled by the negativity of his family. It's a powerful illustration of how fear can be debilitating. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to a specific theme in the Bible (like humility or wisdom)?