Job 34:8-18

8 He likes the company of evil people and goes around with sinners.

9 He says that it never does any good to try to follow God's will.

10 Listen to me, you men who understand! Will Almighty God do what is wrong?

11 He rewards people for what they do ¹ and treats them as they deserve.

12 Almighty God does not do evil; he is never unjust to anyone.

13 Did God get his power from someone else? Did someone put him in charge of the world?

14 If God took back the breath of life,

15 then everyone living would die and turn into dust again.

16 Now listen to me, if you are wise.

17 Are you condemning the righteous God? Do you think that [he ]hates justice?

18 God condemns kings and rulers when they are worthless or wicked.

Job 34:8-18 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.

Cross References

• 1. 34.11Psalms 62.12.