Job 36:2-6 | Clarke | e4.org | Verse 2. That I have yet to speak on God's behalf. ] I have other proofs to allege in behalf of God's justice and providence.

‏ Job 36:2-6

Verse 2. That I have yet to speak on God's behalf.] I have other proofs to allege in behalf of God's justice and providence.

Verse 3. I will fetch my knowledge from afar] lemerachok, "from the distant place," meaning probably both remote antiquity and heaven; see below. I will show thee that all antiquity and experience are on my side. I can bring proofs from the remotest ages and from the most distant countries to demonstrate that God is infinitely WISE, and can do nothing foolish or erroneous; that he is infinitely POWERFUL, and can bring all the purposes of his wisdom to effect; that he is infinitely GOOD, and can will nothing, and can do nothing that is not good in itself, and well calculated to do good to his creatures. And I shall show that his operations in the heavens and on the earth prove and demonstrate the whole.

And will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.] By proving the above points, the righteous conduct of God, and his gracious government of the world, will be fully established.

That Elihu brings his knowledge from afar-from every part of the creation, as well as from the Divine nature-is evident from the end of the chapter. Job 36:32 1. The omnipotence of God;-God is great. 2. The eternity of God-We know him not, the number of his years cannot be found out, Job 36:26. 3. From the economy of God in the atmosphere, in dews, rain, vapour, and the irrigation of the earth;-He maketh small the drops, &c., Job 36:27, 28. 4. In the thunder and lightning, by which he performs such wonders in the atmosphere, and executes such judgments in the world;-Also who can understand the noise of his tabernacle? He spreadeth his light upon it. He judgeth the people, &c., Job 36:29-33.

Verse 4. My words shall not be false] My words shall be truth without falsity.

He that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.] "The perfection of knowledge is with thee." Thou art a sensible, well-informed man, and will be able to judge of what I say.

Verse 5. God is mighty and despiseth not any] He reproaches no man for his want of knowledge. If any man lack wisdom, he may come to God, who giveth liberally, and upbraideth not. I prefer this to the passive sense, will not be despised.

He is mighty] Literally, "He is mighty in strength of heart;" he can never be terrified nor alarmed.

Verse 6. He preserveth not the life] He will not give life to the wicked; all such forfeit life by their transgressions.

But giveth right] Justice will he give to the afflicted or humble, aniyim.