What is the meaning of Job 21:22?

Can anyone teach knowledge to God?

“Can anyone teach knowledge to God…?” (Job 21:22a)

• Job frames a rhetorical question that highlights the absolute omniscience of the LORD.

• Scripture consistently states that God does not learn; He already “knows everything” (1 John 3:20).

• Isaiah 40:13–14 asks, “Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, or who has given Him counsel?”—underscoring that no creature can expand God’s understanding.

• Romans 11:33–34 marvels, “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! … ‘Who has known the mind of the Lord?’”

• Every attempt to “instruct” God reverses the Creator–creature order. Job, even in his pain, affirms that humans cannot sit in the teacher’s chair while placing the Almighty in the student’s seat.

• This truth invites humility: rather than critiquing God’s governance, we receive His words, trusting that His knowledge is perfect and His purposes flawless (Psalm 18:30).

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since He judges those on high

“…since He judges those on high.” (Job 21:22b)

• God’s role as Judge extends beyond human courts to the highest realms. Psalm 82:1 declares, “God presides in the divine assembly; He renders judgment among the gods.” Even celestial beings answer to Him.

• Daniel 4:17 affirms, “the Most High is sovereign over the kingdom of men and gives it to whom He wishes,” showing that kings and angelic powers alike fall under His verdicts.

• Because He alone holds authority over every throne—earthly or heavenly—He needs no correction from those beneath them.

• Job directs this truth at friends who claim inside knowledge of divine justice. If the LORD sits over every “high” authority, their limited perspective cannot override His.

• Hebrews 12:23 calls God “the Judge of all.” Awareness of this universal jurisdiction reassures believers that no injustice escapes His notice, even when life’s circumstances appear confusing.

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summary

Job 21:22 uses a simple question to spotlight two realities: God’s knowledge is unteachable, and His judicial authority reaches the loftiest heights. Recognizing these truths breeds humble trust: when circumstances defy our understanding, we rest in the all-knowing, all-judging Lord whose wisdom needs no improvement and whose decisions are always right.