Job 29:9

“The princes refrained talking, etc.] Who were in court before Job came in, and were either talking with one another about indifferent matters, or were giving their opinion in a case before them; but no sooner did Job make his appearance, but they left off talking, and would not proceed any further; they laid a restraint upon their words, and curbed themselves from speaking any more till they had heard his opinion: and laid [their] hand on their mouth; as a token of silence, (<071819>Judges 18:19).”

“(Job 4:2; see on Job 21:5). Refrained talking--stopped in the middle of their speech.”

“The princes refrained talking - As a mark of respect, or in awe of his presence. And laid their hand on their mouth - To lay the finger or the hand on the mouth is every where an action expressive of silence or respect; Notes, Job 21:5. “In one of the subterranean vaults of Egypt, where the mummies lie buried, they found in the coffin an embalmed body of a woman, before which was placed a figure of wood, representing a youth on his knees, laying a finger on his mouth, and holding in his other hand a sort of chafing dish, which was placed on his head, and in which, without doubt, had been some perfumes.” Maillet. return to 'Top of Page'”

“refrained: Job 4:2, Job 7:11; Pro 10:19; Jam 1:19 laid: Job 21:5, Job 40:4; Jdg 18:19; Pro 30:32 Job 29:10”