Job 40:4 (ESV)

4 “Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth.

God’s questions have been wholly different from what Job had expected. Instead of interrogating Job regarding his guilt or innocence, God has asked Job questions about the earth, the sea, the times and seasons, the night sky, and the animal kingdom. Job is unable to answer any of these questions. He therefore realizes that he is unworthy to challenge God’s governance of the world. With his hand respectfully on his mouth, he stands before God in silence and awe.