Job 35
Job 35 is a chapter in the Book of Job in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. It contains a speech by Elihu, the youngest of Job's four comforters (or accusers), to Job. Elihu's speeches (Job 32-37) offer a different perspective than those of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who preceded him.
In Job 35, Elihu argues against Job's claim that he is righteous despite his suffering. Elihu contends that God is not affected by human righteousness or wickedness. He posits that human actions impact other humans, but not God's inherent nature or state. Elihu questions the value of Job's complaints, suggesting that Job is focused on his own suffering and perceived injustice rather than seeking God's perspective. He argues that Job's self-righteousness is hindering his understanding of God's purposes. Elihu emphasizes God's transcendence and the limitations of human comprehension in the face of divine judgment. The chapter sets the stage for Elihu's subsequent arguments that emphasize God's justice and wisdom, albeit in ways that still differ from God's own pronouncements later in the book.