◄ Job 35 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Elihu Recalls God’s Justice 1And Elihu went on to say: 2“Do you think this is just? You say, ‘I am more righteous than God.’a 3For you ask, ‘What does it profit me, and what benefit do I gain apart from sin?’ 4I will reply to you and to your friends as well. 5Look to the heavens and see; gaze at the clouds high above you. 6If you sin, what do you accomplish against Him? If you multiply your transgressions, what do you do to Him? 7If you are righteous, what do you give Him, or what does He receive from your hand? 8Your wickedness affects only a man like yourself, and your righteousness only a son of man. 9Men cry out under great oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the mighty. 10But no one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives us songs in the night, 11who teaches us more than the beasts of the earth and makes us wiser than the birds of the air?’ 12There they cry out, but He does not answer, because of the pride of evil men. 13Surely God does not listen to empty pleas, and the Almighty does not take note of it. 14How much less, then, when you say that you do not see Him, that your case is before Him and you must wait for Him, 15and further, that in His anger He has not punished or taken much notice of folly! 16So Job opens his mouth in vain and multiplies words without knowledge.” Footnotes: 2 a Or ‘I am righteous before God.’ Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Job 35 Summary Elihu Recalls God's Justice Verses 1–4 – Elihu Questions Job’s Claim of Righteousness Elihu presses Job: “Do you think this is just?” He repeats Job’s complaint—“What advantage will it be to me?”—and asks whether Job really believes he is more right than God. Verses 5–8 – Look to the Heavens; God Is Unmoved by Pride or Sin Pointing to the sky, Elihu reminds Job that God is far above. Human sin does not harm Him, and human righteousness does not enrich Him. Our actions mainly touch other people, not the Almighty. Verses 9–11 – People Cry Out but Ignore Their Teacher Many groan under oppression and cry for help, yet they do not say, “Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night?” They overlook the One who teaches us more than the beasts and makes us wiser than the birds. Verses 12–13 – Empty Cries Go Unheard Because their cries are proud and self-centered, God does not answer. He will not listen when people call out without humility. Verses 14–16 – Elihu Warns Job to Wait Humbly Even if Job does not see God’s judgment right away, he must wait in faith instead of multiplying words without knowledge. Elihu fears Job is piling up empty talk that only deepens his guilt. Job 35 is a key part of the "Elihu speeches," where a relatively young man named Elihu adds his perspective to the ongoing discussion between Job and his three friends. In this chapter, Elihu challenges Job's understanding of divine justice, arguing that neither our righteousness nor wickedness affects God directly, but impacts those around us. This discourse forms an important facet of the ongoing exploration of human suffering, divine justice, and the seeming inscrutability of God's ways. Historical and Literary Setting • Job is likely set in the patriarchal era (comparable to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob). The mention of measured wealth in livestock (Job 1:3) and the absence of references to Israel’s priesthood or Mosaic law match that period. • Elihu, the youngest spokesman, delivers four speeches (Job 32–37). Chapter 35 is his third, sandwiched between his rebuke of Job’s self-righteousness (ch. 34) and his praise of God’s majesty (ch. 36–37). Key Themes in Job 35 1. God’s Transcendence • “Look to the heavens and see; gaze at the clouds—they are higher than you.” (v. 5) • Psalm 113:4 parallels this height language: “The LORD is exalted over all the nations.” 2. Limited Human Impact on God • “If you sin, how does that affect Him? … If you are righteous, what do you give Him?” (vv. 6–7) • Romans 11:35 echoes: “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” 3. Misguided Cries for Help • Elihu distinguishes between cries born of self-pity and cries rooted in seeking God (vv. 9–10). • Isaiah 59:2 adds clarity: “Your iniquities have separated you from your God.” 4. Waiting in Faith • Verse 14 exhorts Job to “wait for Him.” • Psalm 27:14 matches this counsel: “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous.” Practical Instruction • Check the motive of your prayers. Are they aimed at getting relief or at knowing the Giver of songs in the night (v. 10)? • Remember that righteousness is our duty, not a bargaining chip. Luke 17:10 agrees: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” • When God seems silent, keep humility. James 4:6—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Archaeological and Cultural Notes • “Songs in the night” (v. 10) likely refers to shepherds who sang while guarding flocks. Clay tablets from ancient Mesopotamia record night-watch songs, illustrating the phrase’s everyday feel. • The imagery of soaring clouds (v. 5) resonates with Near-Eastern poetry that pictured the sky as God’s palace. Ancient Ugaritic texts speak of Baal riding the clouds; the book of Job redirects that throne to the true Creator. Connections to Other Scripture Stories • Joseph in prison (Genesis 40) is an example of someone who waited through “night” confinement yet trusted God’s songs. • Hannah (1 Samuel 1) shifted from bitter crying to worship once she set her hope on God rather than on immediate relief. • Paul and Silas sang hymns at midnight in Philippi (Acts 16:25), a living echo of “songs in the night.” Word and Image Highlights • “Maker” (v. 10) stresses personal care: the same hand that formed the galaxies fashioned each sufferer. • “Multiplies words without knowledge” (v. 16) glances back to Job 34:35, pushing Job to stop the cycle of complaint. Overall Takeaway Elihu reminds readers that God is far above yet near enough to fill the night with song. Our moral choices shape human society, but they never put God in our debt. Humble waiting, not loud self-defense, opens the way for God’s answer—which arrives in the whirlwind two chapters later. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 55:8-9 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. Psalm 145:17 The LORD is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Teaching Points Elihu's Challenge to Job's Perspective Elihu questions Job's belief that his righteousness or sin affects God directly. He states, If you sin, how does it affect Him? If your transgressions are many, what does it do to Him? (Job 35:6). Elihu emphasizes God's transcendence and the limited impact of human actions on His divine nature. The Impact of Human Actions Elihu argues that human actions primarily affect other people rather than God. Your wickedness affects only a man like yourself, and your righteousness only a son of man (Job 35:8). This highlights the horizontal impact of our behavior on our fellow humans. God's Justice and Human Complaints Elihu points out that people often cry out under oppression but fail to seek God sincerely. He says, But no one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives us songs in the night?’ (Job 35:10). Elihu suggests that genuine seeking of God is often missing in human complaints. God's Sovereignty and Human Understanding Elihu underscores the vastness of God's wisdom and the limitations of human understanding. He reminds Job that God is exalted in power and justice, and His ways are beyond human comprehension. Practical Applications Reflect on Your Motives Consider whether your actions are motivated by a desire to please God or merely to gain favor with others. True righteousness seeks to honor God above all. Acknowledge the Impact on Others Recognize that your actions, whether righteous or sinful, have a significant impact on those around you. Strive to live in a way that reflects God's love and justice to others. Seek God Sincerely In times of trouble, instead of merely complaining, turn to God with a sincere heart. Ask, Where is God my Maker? and seek His presence and guidance. Trust in God's Sovereignty Accept that God's ways are higher than ours. Trust in His justice and wisdom, even when circumstances are difficult to understand. People 1. Elihu Elihu is the speaker in Job 35. He is one of Job's friends who responds to Job's complaints about his suffering. Elihu is portrayed as a younger man who waits for the older friends to finish speaking before he offers his own perspective. In this chapter, Elihu addresses Job's assertions about righteousness and God's justice, emphasizing God's transcendence and the insignificance of human actions in affecting God. Elihu's speeches are intended to provide a different perspective on Job's situation, focusing on God's greatness and the importance of humility before Him. In the Berean Standard Bible, Elihu's discourse in Job 35 highlights themes of divine justice and human limitations. The Hebrew root words often emphasize God's majesty and the futility of human pride, aligning with conservative Christian interpretations that stress God's sovereignty and the need for human humility. Places In Job 35, there are no specific geographical places mentioned. The chapter is part of Elihu's discourse, where he addresses Job and speaks about the nature of God and human righteousness. Since there are no places listed in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. Events 1. Elihu's Address to Job Elihu begins his discourse by addressing Job directly, questioning his claims of righteousness and challenging his understanding of justice. Elihu asks, "Do you think this is just? You say, ‘I am more righteous than God.’" (Job 35:2). The Hebrew root for "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tzaddik) is significant here, as it underscores the theme of righteousness and justice throughout the book. 2. Elihu's Argument on Human Righteousness Elihu argues that human righteousness or sin does not affect God directly. He states, "If you sin, how does it affect Him? If your transgressions are many, what does it do to Him?" (Job 35:6). The Hebrew word for "sin" (חָטָא, chata) is used here, emphasizing the concept of missing the mark or falling short of divine standards. 3. Impact of Human Actions on Others Elihu explains that human actions primarily impact other people, not God. He says, "Your wickedness affects only a man like yourself, and your righteousness only a son of man." (Job 35:8). This highlights the relational aspect of sin and righteousness, focusing on human interactions. 4. Cry for Help and God's Response Elihu observes that people cry out under oppression but often do not seek God sincerely. He notes, "But no one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives us songs in the night?’" (Job 35:10). The Hebrew word for "Maker" (עֹשֶׂה, oseh) is used, pointing to God as the Creator and Sustainer. 5. God's Indifference to Empty Cries Elihu asserts that God does not respond to empty cries or insincere pleas. He states, "Surely God does not listen to empty pleas, and the Almighty does not take note of it." (Job 35:13). The term "empty" (שָׁוְא, shav) in Hebrew conveys the idea of vanity or worthlessness. 6. Job's Lack of Understanding Elihu concludes by criticizing Job for speaking without knowledge and understanding. He says, "So Job opens his mouth in vain and multiplies words without knowledge." (Job 35:16). The Hebrew word for "knowledge" (דַּעַת, da'at) is crucial here, as it underscores the importance of true understanding and wisdom. Lessons from Job 35 1. God’s Sovereignty is Unquestionable In Job 35, Elihu reminds us that God is far above us, and our actions do not affect His sovereignty. As it says, "If you sin, how does it affect Him? If your transgressions are many, what does it do to Him?" (Job 35:6). This teaches us that God’s authority and power are absolute, and our human actions cannot diminish His greatness. Embrace this truth and find peace in knowing that God is in control, no matter the circumstances. 2. Our Righteousness Benefits Us Elihu points out that our righteousness is for our own benefit, not God’s. "If you are righteous, what do you give Him, or what does He receive from your hand?" (Job 35:7). This is a reminder that living a life aligned with God’s will is ultimately for our own good. It enriches our lives and draws us closer to Him, providing us with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. 3. God Hears the Cries of the Oppressed Elihu acknowledges that God is aware of the cries of those who suffer. "People cry out under a load of oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the powerful" (Job 35:9). This reassures us that God is attentive to the struggles of the oppressed and is a source of hope and justice. Trust in His timing and justice, knowing that He hears and cares deeply for those in distress. 4. Seek God with a Sincere Heart Elihu challenges us to seek God earnestly, not just in times of trouble. "But no one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives us songs in the night?’" (Job 35:10). This encourages us to cultivate a relationship with God that is consistent and heartfelt, seeking Him in both good times and bad. Let your pursuit of God be genuine and constant, and you will find joy and strength in His presence. 5. God Teaches Us Through Creation Elihu highlights that God’s wisdom is evident in creation. "He teaches us more than the beasts of the earth and makes us wiser than the birds of the air" (Job 35:11). This reminds us to look at the world around us as a testament to God’s wisdom and creativity. Take time to appreciate the beauty and complexity of creation, and let it inspire awe and reverence for the Creator. 6. Pride Hinders Our Relationship with God Elihu warns against pride, which can distance us from God. "So Job opens his mouth in vain and multiplies words without knowledge" (Job 35:16). Pride can blind us to our need for God and lead us to rely on our own understanding. Stay humble and open to God’s guidance, recognizing that true wisdom comes from Him. 7. God’s Justice is Perfect Elihu assures us that God’s justice is flawless. "Far be it from God to do wickedness, and from the Almighty to do wrong" (Job 34:10). This is a comforting reminder that God’s judgments are always right and fair. Trust in His perfect justice, even when human justice systems fail, and rest in the assurance that He will ultimately set all things right. 8. Patience in Suffering is Key Job’s story, as discussed by Elihu, teaches us the importance of patience in suffering. "When He is silent, who can condemn Him? When He hides His face, who can see Him?" (Job 34:29). Patience allows us to endure trials with faith, trusting that God is working behind the scenes for our good. Cultivate patience and let it strengthen your faith during difficult times. 9. God’s Ways are Beyond Our Understanding Elihu emphasizes that God’s ways are beyond human comprehension. "He is exalted in power, and who is a teacher like Him?" (Job 36:22). This reminds us to trust in God’s wisdom, even when we don’t understand His plans. Embrace the mystery of God’s ways, knowing that His thoughts are higher than ours and His plans are for our ultimate good. 10. Worship God in All Circumstances Finally, Elihu encourages us to worship God regardless of our circumstances. "Remember to extol His work, which men have praised in song" (Job 36:24). Worship is a powerful act of faith that shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness. Make worship a daily practice, and let it fill your heart with gratitude and peace, no matter what life brings your way. Topics 1. Elihu's Address to Job Elihu continues his discourse, addressing Job's complaints about God's justice. He challenges Job's understanding of righteousness and God's response to human actions. Elihu emphasizes that human righteousness or wickedness does not affect God directly, as God is transcendent and sovereign. 2. The Insignificance of Human Righteousness to God Elihu argues that human righteousness does not benefit God, nor does wickedness harm Him. In Job 35:6-7, Elihu states, "If you sin, how does it affect Him? If your transgressions are many, what does it do to Him? If you are righteous, what do you give Him, or what does He receive from your hand?" This highlights the Hebrew concept of God's self-sufficiency and independence from human actions. 3. The Impact of Human Actions on Others Elihu points out that human actions primarily affect other people, not God. In Job 35:8, he says, "Your wickedness affects only a man like yourself, and your righteousness only a son of man." This underscores the relational aspect of sin and righteousness in human communities. 4. God's Response to Human Cries Elihu addresses why God may not respond to cries for help, suggesting that people often cry out in pride or without genuine repentance. In Job 35:12-13, he notes, "There they cry out, but He does not answer, because of the pride of evil men. Surely God does not listen to empty pleas, and the Almighty does not take note of it." This reflects the Hebrew understanding of sincere repentance and humility as prerequisites for divine intervention. 5. The Importance of Reverence and Humility Elihu concludes by emphasizing the need for reverence and humility before God. He suggests that Job's questioning of God's justice lacks the proper reverence due to the Almighty. This theme is consistent with the Hebrew root of "fear" (yirah), which implies awe and respect for God's majesty and authority. Themes 1. Human Righteousness and Divine Indifference Elihu challenges Job's claim of righteousness by questioning the impact of human righteousness on God. He suggests that human actions, whether righteous or sinful, do not affect God directly. This theme is rooted in the understanding of God's transcendence and independence from human actions. ^"If you sin, how does it affect God? Even if you multiply your transgressions, what do you do to Him?"^ (Job 35:6) 2. The Impartiality of God Elihu emphasizes that God is impartial and not swayed by human actions. This theme highlights God's justice and fairness, suggesting that God does not show favoritism based on human behavior. ^"Your wickedness affects only a man like yourself, and your righteousness only a son of man."^ (Job 35:8) 3. Human Suffering and Divine Response Elihu addresses the issue of human suffering and the perception that God does not respond to cries for help. He suggests that people often cry out in their distress but fail to recognize God's sovereignty and wisdom. This theme is connected to the Hebrew understanding of God's providence and timing. ^"But no one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker, who gives us songs in the night,’"^ (Job 35:10) 4. Pride and Its Consequences Elihu warns against pride and self-righteousness, suggesting that these attitudes can hinder one's relationship with God. This theme is rooted in the biblical principle that pride leads to downfall and humility is essential for divine favor. ^"So when you cry out, He does not answer, because of the pride of evil men."^ (Job 35:12) 5. The Limitations of Human Understanding Elihu points out the limitations of human understanding in comprehending God's ways. This theme underscores the vast difference between divine wisdom and human knowledge, encouraging humility and trust in God's greater plan. ^"How much less, then, when you say that you do not see Him, that your case is before Him and you must wait for Him,"^ (Job 35:14) Prayer Points Pray for Humility Ask God to help you recognize the limitations of your understanding and to trust in His greater wisdom and justice. Pray for Sincerity Seek God's help in approaching Him with a sincere heart, especially in times of trouble or confusion. Pray for Impact Request God's guidance in living a life that positively impacts others and reflects His love and righteousness. Pray for Trust Ask for the strength to trust in God's sovereignty and to find peace in His perfect plans, even when they are beyond your understanding. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 35:6–7, how can Elihu claim human obedience or sin does not affect God when other passages suggest God is personally impacted by human actions? 2. Why does Job 35:9 imply people cry out but receive no answer, contradicting verses elsewhere describing divine rescue? 3. How can a just God allow the innocent to suffer alongside the wicked, as implied in Job 35:14–16? 4. Are there any historical or archaeological evidences supporting Elihu’s claim that God always judges fairly in Job 35? 5. In light of Job 35:16, why would a merciful God remain silent if Job’s pleas are without merit, given other scriptures showing God responding to human need? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What was Elihu's argument about the impact of human actions on God in verses 4-8? How does this align with your understanding of God's nature? 2. In verse 9, why do you think people often cry out under oppression, but do not seek God? 3. How does Elihu's discourse in Job 35 challenge your perception of Divine Justice? 4. How does this chapter speak to the problem of evil and suffering in the world today? 5. Can you think of examples in your life where you felt like Job, believing that righteousness should prevent suffering? 6. How can you apply Elihu’s argument about the consequence of sin and the benefit of righteousness to your life? 7. Based on verse 16, how can speaking without knowledge cause a person to attribute unjust deeds to God? 8. What lessons can we learn from Elihu's discourse on how to approach God during times of suffering? 9. How do the themes of divine justice and human understanding affect your perception of God's role in your life? 10. Elihu says our actions affect those around us. Can you think of any examples in your life where your actions had significant impacts on others? 11. How does the concept of God's transcendence, as portrayed in Job 35, comfort or challenge you? 12. In what ways could you relate Job's predicament in Job 35 to present-day situations? 13. In your opinion, how does Job 35 enrich your understanding of God's character? 14. How can Job 35 guide you when you face seemingly unanswered prayers? 15. How does Elihu's message about humility and acknowledgement of God's providence apply to the current world? 16. What does Elihu's discourse teach about the correct perspective on human suffering? 17. How can Elihu's argument help you deal with feelings of injustice in your life? 18. What practical applications can you derive from Job 35 about managing personal suffering? 19. How can this chapter help you relate to others experiencing suffering and feeling distant from God? 20. How can Elihu's perspective on Divine Justice shape your relationship with God and others in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions