Job 34:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

These phrases speak of God, the Sovereign over all rulers and authorities, whose dominion encompasses all people, rendering no distinction between the wealthy and the impoverished.

The way in which humanity was formed highlights its superiority over all creation. The unique gifts granted to mankind reveal a nature that transcends everything that lacks life, sensation, or rationality. However, when we ignore the internal and unseen realities, we tend to value individuals not for who they are at their core, but for the external circumstances that surround them. Our perception is often shaped by their possessions or status rather than their intrinsic worth. Consequently, it can occur that someone we hold in low regard internally may receive external accolades, and while we honor them for what they possess, we assess their true value based on their actions, which are often minimal in our eyes.

With the belief that Job has no grounds to challenge the truth of his assertions, Elihu takes it upon himself to explore in depth Job's claim that the Lord punishes him unfairly. He demonstrates that such a perspective on God conflicts with our understanding of Him as the sovereign Sustainer of the universe. If the Lord were to act with favoritism or injustice, the order in the world would certainly be disrupted, and He would not hold back evil from those who transgress the truth. His complete knowledge and power, coupled with His compassion for the wronged, establish His righteousness. Consequently, humanity must yield to the divine will. Elihu advises a consideration of Job’s mindset in order to provide correction.