איוב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק י״ב

Job faces a severe rebuke for his inner thoughts and his attitude toward how God governs the world. His critics argue that he is allowing his own senses and emotions to lead him astray, pushing him toward a denial of divine justice. This mirrors the classic warning against blindly following the desires of the heart and the sights of the eyes [מלבי״ם].

Commentators explore exactly how Job's heart is affecting his judgment. One perspective suggests it is a matter of misguided learning. They question what exactly his heart is teaching him that makes him feel entitled to interfere with divine providence and criticize the ways of God [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון]. Another approach views the heart's influence as a dangerous pull or temptation. From this angle, the focus is on where his emotions are dragging him, noting how his inner stubbornness tempts him to cling to false beliefs and declare himself completely righteous before God [רמב״ן, ביאור שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם, אלשיך].

Job's physical expressions, specifically the subtle hinting or winking of his eyes, also draw sharp criticism. There is a strong demand for him to speak plainly and honestly, rather than hiding behind cunning gestures. A mere look from his eyes reveals a deep rejection of God's justice, and perhaps even a denial of the soul's eternal nature [רמב״ן, מלבי״ם]. This quiet winking carries an element of secrecy [מלבי״ם], and it is perceived as a deliberate attempt to plant false ideas into the minds of others [מצודת דוד]. Furthermore, these gestures reflect a deep arrogance, as if Job is hinting that he has seen a hidden prophetic vision or possesses a profound personal wisdom that justifies his improper words against God [תקות אנוש, אלשיך].