Job 34:29-37

29 But if he remains silent, who can judge him? If he turns his face away, who can see him? He rules over people and nations alike.

30 He keeps those who are ungodly from ruling. He keeps them from laying traps for others.

31 "Someone might say to God, 'I'm guilty of sinning, but I won't do it anymore.

32 Show me my sins that I'm not aware of. If I've done what is wrong, I won't do it again.'

33 But you refuse to turn away from your sins. So God won't treat you the way you want to be treated. You must decide, Job. I can't do it for you. So tell me what you know.

34 "You men who have understanding have spoken. You wise men who hear me have said to me,

35 'Job doesn't know what he's talking about. The things he has said don't make any sense.'

36 I wish Job would be put to the hardest test! He answered like someone who is evil.

37 To his sin he adds even more sin. He claps his hands and makes fun of us. He multiplies his words against God."

Job 34:29-37 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.