What is the meaning of Job 34:7? What man Elihu opens with a pointed, rhetorical challenge: “What man…?” His wording forces the listeners to look around and see if anyone else fits the description he is about to give. Similar rhetorical devices appear in Proverbs 20:6, “Many a man proclaims his own loving devotion, but who can find a trustworthy man?”. Both verses underscore the rarity of the kind of behavior being highlighted—whether for good or, as here, for troubling conduct. is like Job Job had been famous for integrity (Job 1:8), yet Elihu now turns that reputation on its head. By saying “like Job,” Elihu implies that Job’s recent words have set him apart—but negatively. Psalm 71:20 acknowledges God brings both hardship and restoration; Job, however, has begun to interpret hardship as unjust (Job 34:5-6). Elihu insists this reaction makes Job an unfortunate standout among men. who drinks up The verb pictures rapid, effortless absorption—something done instinctively. Proverbs 26:11 shows a similar instinctive repetition of folly by a fool returning to his vomit. The image hints that Job’s responses are becoming habitual rather than momentary lapses. Job’s earlier resolve to guard his lips (Job 2:10) seems abandoned, and Elihu calls attention to this shift. derision Elihu accuses Job of “derision,” referring to scornful talk against God’s justice. Job 34:9 records Job’s earlier claim, “It profits a man nothing that he should delight in God”. Isaiah 45:9 warns, “Woe to him who contends with his Maker!” The tone of mockery springs from Job’s frustration, but Elihu treats it as outright contempt—a serious charge because mockery aimed at the Almighty is never treated lightly in Scripture (Galatians 6:7). like water Water is basic, constant, and easily swallowed. Job’s sarcastic remarks have become as natural to him as drinking water. Elihu earlier accused people who ignore God’s discipline of “drinking up injustice like water” (Job 34:6-7 echoing Job 15:16). The simile underscores frequency and ease: Job, in Elihu’s view, now imbibes derision daily. Psalm 1:2 presents the opposite picture—delighting in God’s law day and night—highlighting the stark contrast Elihu sees. summary Elihu’s statement, “What man is like Job, who drinks up derision like water?” paints Job as uniquely and dangerously comfortable with mocking, doubt-laden words about God’s justice. Each phrase intensifies the charge: no ordinary man, but Job; not an occasional lapse, but habitual drinking; not mild complaint, but derision; not reluctantly, but as readily as water. Cross-checked with passages that praise trustful speech and warn against scoffing, the verse calls readers to examine whether hardship is driving them toward steady, careless criticism of God or toward renewed faith and reverent silence. |
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