Job 34:6-16

6 I am innocent, but they call me a liar. My suffering is incurable, though I have not sinned.’

7 “Tell me, has there ever been a man like Job, with his thirst for irreverent talk?

8 He chooses evil people as companions. He spends his time with wicked men.

9 He has even said, ‘Why waste time trying to please God?’

10 “Listen to me, you who have understanding. Everyone knows that God doesn’t sin! The Almighty can do no wrong.

11 He repays people according to their deeds. He treats people as they deserve.

12 Truly, God will not do wrong. The Almighty will not twist justice.

13 Did someone else put the world in his care? Who set the whole world in place?

14 If God were to take back his spirit and withdraw his breath,

15 all life would cease, and humanity would turn again to dust.

16 “Now listen to me if you are wise. Pay attention to what I say.

Job 34:6-16 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.