The Church Fathers on this verse

Job 36:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

I will repeat my knowledge from the beginning, and I will prove my Maker just.

Douay-Rheims

אֶשָּׂ֣א דֵ֭עִי לְמֵרָח֑וֹק וּ֝לְפֹעֲלִ֗י אֶֽתֵּֽן־צֶֽדֶק׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Gregory the Great

6th centuryChurch Father

I will reiterate the wisdom that I have held since the beginning, as Job 36:3 states. However, when he speaks of wisdom, his heart's arrogance is revealed through his words, clearly indicating that he is filled with pride unless he swiftly seeks refuge. In concealing his arrogance, he simultaneously reveals the righteousness of the Lord, asserting that he will demonstrate the justice of his Creator. Thus, despite speaking of God’s righteousness, his haughty remarks may evade human judgment. Hence, it follows:

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

After receiving no response from Job this time, Elihu makes a renewed attempt to demonstrate the justice of God as evident in the workings of creation. He contends that the Lord neither punishes without cause nor disregards the integrity of the righteous. The Lord sends trials to purify the faithful from their transgressions; if they turn back to Him, they will be rewarded. Conversely, those who remain unrepentant and deceitful will face His stern judgment. Elihu asserts that Job has the prospect of salvation if he remains virtuous; however, if he is wicked, no defense will safeguard him from retribution. The inevitability of divine judgment is underscored by Elihu's call for Job to consider the majesty of God’s deeds.

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The natural world manifests God’s concern for humanity, reflecting a just allocation of His blessings and afflictions. The phenomena of rain and lightning, thunder and storms, serve either as instruments of divine correction or as tools of compassion, crafted by His hands. Since humanity cannot fully comprehend the reasons behind such wondrous events, nor can it hope to replicate them, it is necessary for individuals to relinquish their desire to question God and instead submit to His sovereign will in humble reverence.

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Passages read together with this verse.