Job 34:19

Job 34:19, spoken by Elihu, is a powerful declaration of God's absolute impartiality and justice. Elihu emphasizes that God does not show favoritism based on social status, wealth, or power, because all humanity, regardless of their earthly standing, are equally His creation. This verse challenges human systems of hierarchy and partiality, affirming God's righteous governance over all.

Context

This verse is part of Elihu's extensive discourse (Job chapters 32-37), where he attempts to correct both Job's perceived self-righteousness and the flawed arguments of Job's three friends. Elihu positions himself as a younger, wiser voice, asserting God's sovereignty and justice. In chapter 34, he particularly focuses on defending God's character against any insinuation of injustice. Elihu highlights God's omnipotence and His righteous administration of the world, arguing that God does not need to be appeased or influenced by human prestige, unlike corrupt earthly judges. Verse 19 serves as a foundational principle for God's just dealings with humanity, reinforcing that His judgments are untainted by partiality.

Key Themes

• Divine Impartiality: The core message is God's unwavering fairness. The phrase "accepteth not the persons of princes" (Hebrew: nasa panim) signifies that God does not lift up or show special favor based on a person's outward appearance, position, or influence. This is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, affirming that God's character is one of pure justice. For example, the New Testament reiterates that God is no respecter of persons (Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34).
• Equality in Creation: The reason for God's impartiality is profoundly stated: "for they all are the work of his hands." Every human being, from the most powerful ruler to the poorest beggar, shares the same Creator. This divine authorship establishes an inherent equality among all people in God's sight, undermining any human-contrived social or economic hierarchies. This concept echoes the truth that humanity is created in God's image (Genesis 1:27).
• God's Righteous Judgment: Because God is impartial and sees all as His creation, His judgments are inherently just and based on truth, not status. He judges according to deeds and the heart, not according to wealth or worldly prestige.

Linguistic Insights

• The phrase "accepteth not the persons" is a translation of the Hebrew idiom nasa panim (נָשָׂא פָנִים), which literally means "to lift up the face" or "to show favor." In legal or judicial contexts, it refers to showing partiality or favoritism, especially towards the rich or powerful. Elihu's point is that God absolutely does not engage in such conduct.
• "Work of his hands" (Hebrew: ma'aseh yadaw) strongly emphasizes God as the sovereign Creator and sustainer of all life, highlighting His ownership and authority over all humanity.

Practical Application

Job 34:19 holds significant implications for believers today:

• Humility and Dignity: Recognizing that all are "the work of His hands" should foster humility in those with status or wealth and affirm the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of their circumstances. It reminds us that our worth comes from being God's creation, not from earthly achievements.
• Fairness and Justice: This verse calls believers to imitate God's impartiality in their own lives. In our interactions, workplaces, communities, and particularly in positions of leadership or judgment, we are to treat all people with fairness, respect, and dignity, avoiding favoritism based on wealth, race, gender, or social standing. The Apostle James strongly warns against showing partiality (James 2:9).
• Hope for the Oppressed: For the poor, marginalized, or those overlooked by society, this verse offers immense comfort and hope. It assures them that God sees them, values them equally with princes, and will administer perfect justice, unlike often-flawed human systems.