“And they waited for me as for the rain; and they opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain.”
They waited for me as for the rain, and they opened their mouth as for the spring rains, extending the metaphor of beneficial moisture to describe how the community regarded Job's speech and presence. The waiting as for rain suggests that Job's arrival was anticipated as a source of essential provision. The opening of mouth as for spring rains suggests receptivity and eagerness to receive what Job offered. The verse establishes that Job's presence and words were regarded as necessary and beneficial.
Church Fathers on Job 29:23
-23. They that heard me awaited my sentence, and listening kept silence at any counsel. They dared not to add any thing to my words, and my speech dropped upon them. And they waited for me as the rain, and opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain. For this awe of those under him we unquestionably believe to have been towards blessed Job. But as we have already often said, Holy Church being driven to extremities by the inflictions of heretics or carnal persons,…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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