Job 34:14-15

14 If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit^[a] and breath,

15 all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.

Job 34:14-15 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.

Job 34:14-15 In-Context

12 It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.

13 Who appointed him over the earth? Who put him in charge of the whole world?

14 If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath,

15 all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.

16 “If you have understanding, hear this; listen to what I say.

17 Can someone who hates justice govern? Will you condemn the just and mighty One?

Cross References

• 1. S Genesis 6:3
• 2. S Numbers 16:22; S Job 27:3; Psalms 104:29
• 3. S Genesis 6:13; Lamentations 3:22; Malachi 3:6; John 3:16
• 4. S Genesis 2:7; Genesis 3:19; S Job 7:21; Job 9:22; Psalms 90:10

Footnotes

• [a]. Or "Spirit"