Podcast 50, Stories of the Bible, “The Book of Job, Ch 36”

As with the other chapters, Chapter 36 uses the chiastic format: A1,A2—B1,B2. A1 Verse 1 is characteristically the salutation that introduces the speaker.

Job 36:1

Elihu also proceeded, and said,

Elihu, a devout person, praises God. First he politely requests the other men to listen to his words. He testifies that he speaks the truth. However, as with Bildad, Eliphaz, and Zophar, Elihu is directly addressing Job.

A1 Job 36:2-4

Suffer me a little, and I will shew thee that I have yet to speak on God’s behalf. I will fetch my knowledge from afar, and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker. For truly my words shall not be false: he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.

In his youth, Elihu is very bold. Remember when he first introduced himself, he appeared deferential and humble, but even then his true colors showed through. He clearly saw himself as superior to his elders.

Job 32:4-10

Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he. When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was kindled. And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion. I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom. But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment. Therefore I said, Hearken to me; I also will shew mine opinion.

There is a distinct lack of humility in Elihu, but the others in formal argument treat him respectfully as an equal. One is unsure, however, whether Elihu is speaking of God or of himself when he said, “he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.” Elihu also said, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” Claiming to speak for God is a pretty bold statement. Frankly I put my trust in Job. However, the youthful Elihu is devout and he praises God. After ascribing “righteousness to my Maker,” Elihu lists other characteristics of God.

A1 Job 36:5-7

Behold, God is mighty, and despiseth not any: he is mighty in strength and wisdom. He preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor.

He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous: but with kings are they on the throne; yea, he doth establish them for ever, and they are exalted.

We may accept everything Elihu said of God. He is mighty in strength and wisdom; he is no respecter of persons; he does not preserve the wicked, but he gives right to the poor; he watches over the righteous; he exalts the righteous.

But there is a barb in Elihu’s voice. The next is aimed at Job,

A1 Job 36:8-10

And if they be bound in fetters, and be holden in cords of affliction;

Then he sheweth them their work, and their transgressions that they have exceeded.

He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity.

It is very clear that Elihu thinks that Job is bound in fetters and holden in cords of affliction, He is convinced that God is punishing Job for his transgressions, that he is opening the ears of Job to discipline, and that Job’s punishment is warning to return from iniquity.

A2 continues Elihu’s praise of God

A2: Job 36:26-31

Behold, God is great, and we know him not, neither can the number of his years be searched out. For he maketh small the drops of water: they pour down rain according to the vapour thereof: Which the clouds do drop and distil upon man abundantly. Also can any understand the spreadings of the clouds, or the noise of his tabernacle? Behold, he spreadeth his light upon it, and covereth the bottom of the sea. For by them judgeth he the people; he giveth meat in abundance.