1 And Elihu answered and said:
2 “Do you think this to be just? Do you say, ‘It is my right before God,’”
3 For you say, ‘What advantage have I? How am I better off than if I had sinned?’
4 I will answer you and your friends with you.
5 Look at the heavens, and see; and behold the clouds, which are higher than you.
6 If you have sinned, what do you accomplish against him?
And if your transgressions are multiplied, what do you do to him?
7 If you are righteous, what do you give to him? Or what does he receive from your hand?
8 Your wickedness concerns a man like yourself,
and your righteousness a son of man.
9 “Because of the multitude of oppressions people cry out;
they call for help because of the arm of the mighty.
10 But none says, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night,
11 who teaches us more than the beasts of the earth
and makes us wiser than the birds of the heavens?’
12 There they cry out, but he does not answer, because of the pride of evil men.
13 Surely God does not hear an empty cry, nor does the Almighty regard it.
14 How much less when you say that you do not see him,
that the case is before him, and you are waiting for him!
15 And now, because his anger does not punish, and he does not take much note of transgression,
16 He opens their ears to instruction
and commands that they return from iniquity.
The True Meaning of Job 35
This chapter of the book of Job is attributed to Elihu, a young man who had been listening to the debate between Job and his three friends. Elihu felt compelled to offer his own perspective on the matter, as he believed the others had failed to provide a satisfactory answer to Job’s lament. Elihu challenges Job’s assertion that his suffering is unjust and that God has abandoned him in this passage. He argues that God is just and that human beings cannot fully comprehend the divine plan. Elihu also reminds Job of the importance of humility and the need to trust in God’s wisdom, even in the face of adversity.
Elihu’s words echo the sentiments expressed in other biblical passages, such as Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Similarly, the book of Isaiah reminds us that “my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” (Isaiah 55:8) underscoring the limitations of human understanding when it comes to the ways of God.
Job 35:1-8
Elihu answered and said in Job 35:1-8, “Thinkest thou this to be right, that thou saidst, My righteousness is more than God’s?” For thou saidst, What advantage will it be unto thee? And, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin? I will answer thee, and thy companions with thee. Look unto the heavens, and see; and behold the clouds which are higher than thou. If thou sinnest, what doest thou against him? Or if thy transgressions be multiplied, what doest thou unto him? If thou be righteous, what givest thou him? Or what receiveth he of thine hand? Thy wickedness may hurt a man as thou art; and thy righteousness may profit the son of man.”
This passage reveals Elihu’s response to Job’s claim of his righteousness exceeding that of God’s. Elihu questions Job’s perspective, challenging the idea that any human righteousness could ever trump that of God. He points out the insignificance of human actions in comparison to the greatness of God. Elihu uses the imagery of the heavens and clouds to emphasize the vast difference between humanity and the divine. This serves as a reminder of how small and limited human understanding is in the grand scheme of things.
Elihu’s words highlight the theme of humility before God, a recurring lesson throughout the Bible. The verse in Proverbs 3:7 states, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.”” This echoes the sentiment Elihu conveys to Job, cautioning him against pride and self-righteousness. The concept of God’s righteousness far surpassing human righteousness is also echoed in Isaiah 55:8-9, where it is stated, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. My ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts, just as the heavens are higher than the earth.”
Elihu’s message serves as a reminder to Job, and to readers of the Bible, of the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty and supreme righteousness. It calls for humility, acknowledging that our righteousness is nothing compared to the righteousness of God. This humility before God is a central theme in the Book of Job, as Job learns to trust in God’s wisdom and ultimate plan, even in the midst of suffering and confusion.
Job 35:9-16
Elihu, one of Job’s friends who has been giving him counsel throughout the book of Job, continues to speak to Job in Job 35:9-16. Elihu starts by asking Job if he thinks he is being righteous by saying, “Because of the multitude of oppressions they cry out; they cry for help because of the arm of the mighty. But no one says, ‘Where is God my Maker, Who gives songs in the night?’” (Job 35:9-10). Elihu emphasizes the importance of seeking God in times of trouble rather than solely focusing on the oppression one faces. He seems to be implying that Job has been more focused on his own suffering and complaints rather than turning to God in his distress.
Elihu then goes on to say, “And now, because He has not punished in His anger, nor taken much notice of folly, therefore Job opens his mouth in vain; he multiplies words without knowledge” (Job 35:12-13). Here, Elihu is suggesting that Job is mistaken in thinking that God is ignoring his situation simply because he has not punished him promptly. Elihu believes that Job speaking out against God’s silence is unwarranted and lacks wisdom.
Moving forward, Elihu asserts, “Do you think this is right? Do you say, ‘My righteousness is more than God’s?’ For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You? What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?’” (Job 35:15-16). Elihu challenges Job’s assertion that he is more righteous than God and questions Job’s belief that there is no benefit in being righteous in these verses. Elihu is urging Job to consider the true nature of righteousness and the importance of trusting in God’s justice, even when it may seem delayed or unclear.
Elihu’s words in these verses serve as a reminder of the timeless message found throughout the Bible that emphasizes the significance of trusting in God’s wisdom and justice, even in the midst of suffering and confusion. The book of Job as a whole delves deeply into the themes of suffering, faith, and the mystery of God’s ways. Job’s story demonstrates the importance of maintaining faith and humility, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. This portion of Elihu’s discourse challenges Job to reflect on his perspective and consider the implications of questioning God’s righteousness and wisdom. It serves as a cautionary tale for readers to approach God with reverence and trust, even in the most difficult circumstances.
After Job 35
The chapter of Job 35 concluded with Elihu’s continued rebuke of Job. He questioned Job’s claim that he was more righteous than God, and argued that God’s justice is perfect. Elihu asserted that Job’s complaints against God were misguided, for God is far above human understanding. Elihu’s words grew more forceful as the discussion continued. He warned Job that his arrogance and self-righteousness would only lead him further from the truth. The reverend knew that the next chapter would bring an even more profound challenge to Job’s perspective. For when the Almighty God Himself finally spoke, Job would be forced to confront the limits of his own wisdom and the greatness of the divine.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.