Words, words, words, unparalleled words

Words - we reconsider. Two different words meaning word, speech, thing, saying or the like are in Job - and I find I have ignored the differences. דבר is very common - 1439 times in the Bible, 20 in Job. A thing or word. מלה is rare - 38 times in the Bible but 34 of them in Job. When דבר and מלה are both used in the same verse as parallels - I must respect their differences and I find I have not. So - slow down - he says and go back and check your work. This I will do.

Behold - it is done. Henceforth מלה is speech - rare enough in my language and quite suitable for Job which is full of speeches!