Job 34:36 (KJV)

What does Job 34:36 mean?

Job 34:36 expresses a wish that Job would be tested thoroughly because of the way he has answered, which seems to support the arguments of wicked people. The speaker wants Job to face a full examination for his words, suggesting that Job’s responses have gone too far.

In this verse, Elihu is speaking to the other listeners about Job. Elihu is frustrated with Job’s insistence on his own innocence and feels that Job’s words give encouragement to those who oppose God. Elihu’s desire is not just for Job to be corrected, but for him to be tested “unto the end,” meaning completely or to the utmost, to see if Job will hold to his claims under pressure.

The Hebrew behind Job 34:36

• “Desire” (אַבִּי, ’aḇî): This word is a personal expression, meaning “my father” or “I wish,” showing that Elihu is voicing a strong personal wish, not just making a general statement.
• “Tried” (בָּחַן, bāḥan): This verb means to examine or test, often used for testing the quality or integrity of something. Elihu is calling for a thorough examination of Job’s character and words.
• “End” (נֶצַח, netzaḥ): This word can mean “forever” or “to the utmost,” suggesting Elihu wants Job to be tested as far as possible, not just briefly.
• “Answers” (תְּשֻׁבֹת, teshubot): This refers to Job’s replies or responses, highlighting that Elihu is reacting specifically to what Job has said.
• “Wicked” (אָוֶן, aven): This word means evil or wrongdoing. Elihu is accusing Job’s answers of aligning with the arguments of those who are against God.
• “Men” (אֱנוֹשׁ, enosh): This is a general word for people or mankind, emphasizing that Job’s words could influence others.

Why Job 34:36 matters

• This verse shows Elihu’s frustration with Job and his belief that Job’s words could encourage others to doubt God’s justice, which is a key concern in the debate between Job and his friends.
• The verse clarifies that Elihu is not just criticizing Job’s suffering, but specifically his responses, which Elihu sees as dangerous or misleading.
• Understanding the strong language Elihu uses helps explain the tension in the conversation and sets up the continued arguments about justice, suffering, and integrity in the book of Job.