Ears and Tongues

For the ear tests words as the tongue tastes food. Let us discern for ourselves what is right; let us learn together what is good. — Job 34:3-4

There is a lot packed into these two sentences. We learn in grammar school that food tastes differently depending on what part of the tongue is stimulated. The book of Job suggest we hear words similar to the way our tongue tastes foods. Isn’t it true that context affects the way we hear what is said. Hateful words heard in one context may be playful and loving words in another. Who amongst us hasn’t felt misunderstood? Who hasn’t uttered words that as expressed were sweet, but to the listener the words land bitter and sour.

I also noticed that the author of Job suggest that what is right is different than what is good. Notice we should discern what is right for “ourselves,” but learn “together’ what is good. What do you think he means?

Food for thought. I’m interested in your opinion. W.