Job 34:23-33

23 For he will not lay upon man more than that which is just; that he should enter into judgment with God.

24 He shall break in pieces mighty men without number and set others in their stead.

25 Therefore, he shall cause their works to be notorious, when he shall overturn them in the night, so that they are destroyed.

26 He shall strike them as wicked men in the open sight of others

27 because thus they turned back from him and would not consider any of his ways

28 so that they cause the cry of the poor to come unto him, and he hears the cry of the afflicted.

29 When he gives rest, who then can make trouble? If he hides his face, who then can behold him? This applies to a nation and the same to a man,

30 that the hypocrite not reign, lest the people be ensnared.

31 For it is of God to say, I have forgiven, I will no longer destroy.

32 Teach me that which I do not see; if I have done iniquity, I will do it no more.

33 Will he, perchance finish his work by thee; whether thou refuse or whether thou choose, or by me? Speak what thou knowest.

Job 34:23-33 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JOB 34

In this chapter Elihu reassumes his discourse, and proceeds in his answer to Job, in which are first a preface exciting attention, Job 34:1-4; then a charge is brought against Job, expressed in or extracted from some words that dropped from his lips, not so well guarded, Job 34:5-9; a refutation of these expressions of his in a variety of arguments, Job 34:10-30; and the chapter is closed with some good advice to Job, Job 34:31-33; and with an earnest request of Elihu to men of understanding, to join with him in trying him to the uttermost, Job 34:34-37.