The Church Fathers on this verse

Job 33:27Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He shall look upon men, and shall say: I have sinned, and indeed I have offended, and I have not received what I have deserved.

Douay-Rheims

יָשֹׁ֤ר ׀ עַל־אֲנָשִׁ֗ים וַיֹּ֗אמֶר חָ֭טָאתִי וְיָשָׁ֥ר הֶעֱוֵ֗יתִי וְלֹא־שָׁ֥וָה לִֽי׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Philippus

5th centuryChurch Father

It is truly a significant and pleasing act in the eyes of God for a person to openly acknowledge his wrongdoings, particularly when he understands that he faces consequences for them. Such humility allows him to reduce himself to the point where the criticisms he endures become a source of equal honor for him.

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

After detailing the reasons that previously hindered him from speaking and outlining his intentions for the discussion, Elius assures Job that he will communicate sincerely and without fear. He urges Job to pay close attention and to challenge any inaccuracies he perceives, fully aware of the finite nature of humanity. Based on Job’s own declarations, Elius acknowledges that he views himself as a blameless sufferer at God’s hand. He believes Job has erred in his perspective of God, who, in His sovereignty over creation, is not obligated to justify His actions to anyone. God administers justice in a manner that does not lend itself to human grievances.

Read more (45 words)

When observing mankind's propensity to stray, He provides guidance through dreams or affliction, but He also shows compassion and offers restoration when an individual turns back to Him. Elius invites Job to respond but receives no answer and once more entreats him to listen attentively.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.