In Revised Standard Version this verse consists of two rhetorical questions which anticipate “No” as a reply. These questions are thought to be proverbial sayings which reflect the wisdom Bildad cherishes. Scholars emphasize that the terms for papyrus and reeds have an Egyptian connection. Note that Good News Translation makes verses 11-14 the teachings of the ancestors.

Can papyrus grow where there is no marsh?: papyrus is an aquatic (water) plant of the sedge family that grew in the shallow waters of the Nile river. It was used for making an early form of paper, among other things (the word “paper” is derived from “papyrus”). Marsh translates a word which occurs only in 40.21 and in Ezekiel 47.11. Marsh is another name for swamp. Can reeds flourish where there is no water?: reeds are like papyrus, tall grassy plants that grow near water. The same Hebrew term is found in Genesis 41.2, 18. The point of the saying is that people need to have a dependable source of life, just as these plants require abundant water to sustain them.

The questions of verse 11 are rhetorical and parallel. The translator must decide whether to keep them as questions and whether or not a “No” is required. In some languages it may be better to translate as Biblia Dios Habla Hoy does, “Reeds and papyrus only grow where water is plentiful.” In some languages well-known swamp grasses will substitute. However, the names of these grasses should be familiar. If no such grasses are known, a single generic term may be used.

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, Wiliam. A Handbook on Job. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1992. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .