What is the meaning of Job 34:35? Job speaks - Elihu, moved by the Spirit, observes that “Job speaks” (Job 34:35). Job has poured out his anguish and wrestled aloud with God (Job 3:1–26; 23:1–7). - Scripture validates lament—David does the same in Psalm 13:1–2—yet speech about God must remain reverent (Ecclesiastes 5:2; James 1:19). - Job’s honesty is not condemned; rather, the content of some of his statements is. As Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” without knowledge - Elihu asserts that Job lacks the full picture. Human understanding is finite: “The secret things belong to the LORD our God” (Deuteronomy 29:29). - Paul echoes this truth: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” (Romans 11:33). - Job’s earlier claims that God treats the righteous and wicked alike (Job 21:7–15) overlook the hidden purposes God later reveals (Job 42:2–3). - We, too, “know in part” (1 Corinthians 13:9), so humility is vital whenever we speak of God’s ways. his words - Elihu zeroes in on Job’s actual expressions. Words can either build up or tear down (Ephesians 4:29). - Job had begun to charge God with injustice (Job 34:5–6), edging toward self-righteousness (Job 32:2). - Jesus warns, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). The tongue showcases the heart (Luke 6:45). lack insight - “Insight” conveys spiritual discernment. Job’s suffering obscured his vision, leading him to dark conclusions similar to those God later rebukes: “Who is this who obscures My counsel by words without knowledge?” (Job 38:2). - True insight begins with fearing the Lord (Proverbs 1:7) and trusting His wisdom above our own (Proverbs 3:5-6). - Isaiah 55:8-9 underscores the gap between our thoughts and God’s: His plans surpass our comprehension, even in painful seasons. summary Job’s passionate, honest speech becomes a cautionary tale: sincerity alone is insufficient when it strays from truth. Elihu’s evaluation reminds us that • speech must honor God, • humility must temper limited knowledge, • every word carries weight, and • genuine insight flows from reverent trust in the Lord. |
    |