Job 34:26-36

26 He punishes them for the evil they do so that everyone else can watch,

27 because they stopped following God and did not care about any of his ways.

28 The cry of the poor comes to God; he hears the cry of the needy.

29 But if God keeps quiet, who can blame him? If he hides his face, who can see him? God still rules over both nations and persons alike.

30 He keeps the wicked from ruling and from trapping others.

31 "But suppose someone says to God, 'I am guilty, but I will not sin anymore.

32 Teach me what I cannot see. If I have done wrong, I will not do it again.'

33 So, Job, should God reward you as you want when you refuse to change? You must decide, not I, so tell me what you know.

34 "Those who understand speak, and the wise who hear me say,

35 'Job speaks without knowing what is true; his words show he does not understand.'

36 I wish Job would be tested completely, because he answered like an evil man!

Job 34:26-36 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.