Commentary on Job 35:4

Verse: "For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment."

Introduction

Job 35:4 is a pivotal verse in the dialogue between Job and his friends, representing a critical moment where the themes of divine justice, suffering, and the human condition converge. Here, Elihu, one of Job's younger companions, speaks to Job's assertions concerning his righteousness and God's seeming indifference to his plight.

Contextual Analysis

The Book of Job addresses profound questions regarding suffering and the nature of God. Job, a blameless and upright man, is subjected to immense suffering. His friends propose traditional theodicies but fail to understand the mystery of God's will. Elihu steps in with a fresh perspective, attempting to reconcile Job's experiences with God's justice.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry emphasizes that Elihu rebukes Job for declaring himself righteous, implying that once one assumes righteousness before God, it can lead to self-deception. Job’s views reflect a legalistic notion of righteousness, whereas true righteousness is understood through humility and acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty.

Henry illustrates that Elihu’s statements aim to lead Job to a deeper understanding of God's governance over human affairs. Human beings should recognize their limitations and the vastness of God’s wisdom. Elihu's intention is to bring Job back to a more profound realization of God's majesty and justice.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Barnes discusses the implications of Job's assertion of his righteousness, noting that it opens the door to questions about how divine justice operates in the world. He highlights that Elihu is concerned with Job’s confidence in his moral standing and the perceived injustice of God in his suffering.

According to Barnes, the verse reveals a historical context where the righteousness was often equated with material prosperity. Job’s suffering challenges this simplistic view, leading to a broader theological reflection on righteousness as it pertains to the character of God, which transcends mere human understanding.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke offers a close examination of the words used in the verse, translating the Hebrew nuances to convey deeper meanings. He focuses on the phrase "God hath taken away my judgment," suggesting that Job feels stripped of his ability to appeal to divine justice. This helplessness reflects a broader existential struggle that resonates with many believers facing suffering without clear answers.

Clarke posits that while Job questions God's judgment, Elihu seeks to redirect Job’s focus toward God’s unchanging nature and the ultimate purpose behind suffering. He underlines that God's ways may not always align with human rationality, advocating for trust in divine wisdom amidst trials.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates a modern struggle with theodicy—the justification of God in the face of evil and suffering. The assertion of righteousness is an emblem of human pride and self-reliance, which ultimately stands in contrast to the humility called for by faith.

• Divine Sovereignty: The commentary explores the sovereignty of God over human affairs, particularly concerning suffering. Job's insistence on his righteousness reflects an incomplete understanding of God's greater purpose.
• Human Righteousness and Pride: The text reminds readers of the dangers of self-justification and the importance of humility before God. True righteousness is not contingent on circumstances but on one's standing with God.
• God’s Justice: Elihu’s challenge to Job pushes the reader to consider the broader narrative of God’s justice, which is not always immediately apparent. God's ways may be mysterious, yet they remain faithful and judge righteously.
• Faith Amidst Suffering: The struggle portrayed in this passage encourages reflection on maintaining faith despite suffering. Job becomes a figure emblematic of the human condition, illustrating that doubt can coexist with faith.

Conclusion

Job 35:4 challenges the faithful to ponder the complexities of God’s justice and the multifaceted nature of righteousness. Elihu serves as a voice calling for a deeper understanding of divine sovereignty and human limitation. In an age where suffering often leads to questions of faith, this verse remains pertinent, encouraging believers to seek God earnestly and trust in His ultimate justice and purpose.