Job 34:32

KJV

[That which] I see not teach thou me: if I have done iniquity, I will do no more.

KJV (with Strong's)

That which I see {H2372} not {H1107} teach {H3384} thou me: if I have done {H6466} iniquity {H5766}, I will do {H3254} no more.

Complete Jewish Bible

teach me what I have failed to see; and if I have done wrong, I will do it no more'?

Berean Standard Bible

Teach me what I cannot see; if I have done wrong, I will not do it again.’

American Standard Version

That which I see not teach thou me: If I have done iniquity, I will do it no more?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 34:32, articulated by Elihu, presents a profound model for spiritual humility and a deep commitment to repentance. It encapsulates a prayerful openness to divine instruction, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding regarding God's ways and one's own hidden faults. The verse expresses a sincere willingness to be taught by God concerning any unrecognized iniquity, coupled with a resolute pledge to abandon such wrongdoing once it is revealed. This posture is crucial for navigating life's challenges, particularly suffering, by fostering a spirit of teachability rather than self-justification.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Elihu's discourse, spanning [Job 32-37](/job/32 "Job 32-37 - Elihu's Speeches"), marks a pivotal shift in the narrative of Job. Following the exhaustive and ultimately unsatisfying arguments of Job's three friends, and Job's persistent self-vindication and challenges to God, Elihu emerges as a younger, yet divinely inspired, voice. He positions himself as a mediator, aiming to correct both Job's presumptuousness and the friends' narrow theological framework. [Job 34](/job/34 "Job 34 - Elihu's Defense of God's Justice") specifically focuses on Elihu's robust defense of God's absolute righteousness and sovereignty. He asserts that God is incapable of injustice and that suffering, rather than being solely punitive, can serve as a means of divine instruction and purification. Verse 32 is a direct exhortation to Job, urging him to adopt a posture of humble teachability and a readiness to repent, contrasting sharply with Job's earlier demands for an explanation from God or his insistence on his own innocence. Elihu's argument is that God's actions are always just, even if their purposes are veiled from human perception, and that wisdom lies in submitting to His instruction.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Job is set in the ancient Near East, likely in the land of Uz, depicting a patriarchal society. The cultural backdrop is heavily influenced by "retribution theology," a prevalent wisdom tradition in the region that often linked suffering directly to sin. Job's friends are staunch proponents of this view. Elihu, while upholding God's justice, introduces a more nuanced understanding of suffering as a pedagogical tool, a concept less emphasized by the other interlocutors. This perspective aligns with broader ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, where deities or wise elders impart wisdom and instruction. The dialogue format itself is characteristic of wisdom genres, where profound existential and theological questions are debated. The call for divine instruction in [Job 34:32](/job/34-32 "Job 34:32 - Elihu's Call for Humility") resonates with the universal human quest for knowledge and moral guidance, often sought from higher powers or revered sages in ancient cultures.
* **Key Themes:** [Job 34:32](/job/34-32 "Job 34:32 - Elihu's Call for Humility") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Job and broader wisdom literature. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty and justice of God**, asserting that God's ways are beyond human full comprehension and that His righteousness is unimpeachable, even amidst profound mystery. Elihu contends that God's actions are never arbitrary but are always just, even if their purpose is hidden from human eyes, as seen in [Job 33:14-18](/job/33-14-18 "Job 33:14-18 - God Speaks in Many Ways"). Secondly, the verse highlights the critical theme of **human humility and teachability**. It directly challenges the human inclination to question or accuse God, advocating instead for a posture of openness to divine correction and instruction. This aligns with the foundational wisdom principle that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, as articulated in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge"). Finally, it speaks to the theme of **repentance and transformation**. Elihu's words suggest that suffering can serve as a catalyst for self-examination and a turning away from sin, leading to spiritual growth and restoration, rather than being solely a punitive measure. This concept of God's discipline as a refining process is central to Elihu's argument, as exemplified in [Job 36:15-16](/job/36-15-16 "Job 36:15-16 - God Delivers the Afflicted").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **teach (Hebrew, _yârâh'_):** From H3384, this primitive root properly means "to flow as water" or "to rain." Transitively, it means "to lay or throw" (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot). Figuratively, and most relevant here, it means "to point out (as if by aiming the finger)," "to direct," or "to instruct." In this context, it signifies a deep desire for God to illuminate what is hidden from human understanding, particularly concerning one's own faults or the reasons for suffering. It implies not just intellectual instruction but a transformative revelation of truth and moral direction.
* **iniquity (Hebrew, _ʻevel'_):** From H5766, this term refers to "moral evil," "perverseness," "unrighteousness," or "wickedness." It encompasses not only the wrong act itself but also the distortion of character and the guilt and consequence associated with it. Unlike a simple mistake, _ʻevel_ often implies a deliberate twisting or perversion of what is right, indicating a deeper moral failing or a deviation from justice. Elihu's use here suggests a willingness to confront even deeply embedded or unrecognized sin.
* **do (no more) (Hebrew, _yâçaph'_):** From H3254, this primitive root means "to add" or "to augment." It is often used adverbially to mean "to continue to do a thing" or "to do again." In the phrase "I will do no more," the Hebrew verb _yâçaph_ is used with a negative particle (not explicitly given in the Strong's for the full phrase, but implied by the context of "no more"). Thus, it expresses a strong, definitive commitment to abandon a past course of action and not repeat it. It conveys an emphatic resolve to cease entirely from the identified iniquity, speaking to a genuine, active repentance that involves a change of behavior, not just a mental acknowledgment of wrong.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That which I see not teach thou me":** This clause expresses a profound posture of humility and dependence on divine revelation. It acknowledges the inherent limitations of human perception and self-knowledge, admitting that there may be hidden faults, blind spots, or aspects of God's dealings that are beyond one's current understanding. It is a prayerful request for God to illuminate these unseen areas, whether they pertain to personal sin or the mysterious purposes of suffering. This is an invitation for God to be the ultimate instructor and revealer of truth, guiding the individual beyond their limited perspective.
* **"if I have done iniquity":** This is a conditional clause, not necessarily an immediate admission of guilt, but a hypothetical statement that opens the door to the possibility of wrongdoing. It demonstrates a willingness to consider that one might be in the wrong, even if currently unaware of it. This "if" is crucial; it implies a readiness to accept divine correction and to search one's heart for any hidden sin that God might reveal. It is a humble concession to the potential for human fallibility and sinfulness in the face of divine scrutiny.
* **"I will do no more":** This final clause is a resolute commitment to repentance and behavioral change. It signifies a firm resolve to cease from any iniquity that God might reveal. This is not a passive acceptance of guilt but an active, decisive turning away from sin. It highlights the practical and transformative aspect of true repentance, where the acknowledgment of wrong leads directly to a commitment to forsake it and not return to it, demonstrating a genuine desire for moral and spiritual alignment with God's will.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of humility and repentance. The most prominent is **Supplication**, as the speaker directly appeals to God for divine instruction ("teach thou me"). This is coupled with an implied **Hypophora**, where the speaker poses an internal question ("That which I see not") and then immediately provides the desired response or commitment ("if I have done iniquity, I will do no more"). This rhetorical strategy draws the listener into the speaker's thought process and emphasizes the desired outcome of teachability and decisive action. There is also a strong element of **Conditional Clause** ("if I have done iniquity"), which introduces a hypothetical scenario that underscores the speaker's openness to self-examination and correction. The structure of the verse, moving from a humble request for enlightenment to a conditional acknowledgment of potential sin, and finally to a firm commitment to change, creates a powerful sense of **Progression** from ignorance to knowledge and from potential fault to resolute righteousness. The use of **Direct Address** ("teach thou me") makes the appeal personal and intimate, emphasizing the individual's direct relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Job 34:32 encapsulates a crucial theological principle: authentic wisdom begins with profound humility before God and an eager willingness to be taught by Him, even concerning one's own hidden faults. Elihu's words challenge Job's self-justifying posture, asserting that God's ways are infinitely higher than human understanding and His justice is unimpeachable. The verse emphasizes that divine instruction often involves the revelation of sin, not merely for condemnation, but for the purpose of genuine repentance and transformative change. This aligns perfectly with the broader biblical understanding that God's discipline is ultimately for our good, designed to lead us to righteousness and spiritual maturity. It underscores the vital importance of cultivating an open heart to God's convicting Spirit and a firm resolve to obey and act decisively once truth is revealed.

* [Psalm 19:12](/psalm/19-12 "Psalm 19:12 - Who Can Discern His Errors?")
* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Confession and Forsaking Sin")
* [James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Be Doers of the Word, Not Hearers Only")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Job 34:32 offers a profound and enduring model for spiritual growth and maturity, particularly relevant in times of uncertainty, suffering, or self-doubt. It calls believers to cultivate a posture of radical humility before God, acknowledging that our understanding is inherently limited and that there may be areas of sin, misunderstanding, or unexamined motives in our lives that we simply do not "see." This requires an active, prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit to illuminate our blind spots and reveal God's truth, whether it pertains to our character, our actions, or the deeper purposes behind our circumstances. When God, through His Word, His Spirit, or even through the wise counsel of others, brings something to light, the verse compels us to respond with immediate and resolute repentance. This is not merely a passive confession of sin but a firm, active commitment to turn away from it and "do no more." This active forsaking of sin, born out of a teachable spirit, is the hallmark of genuine transformation and a vital step in walking in greater alignment with God's will and experiencing His restorative power and peace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What areas of your life might you be "blind" to, and how can you cultivate a posture of humility to allow God to reveal them?**
* **When God reveals a fault or sin, what does genuine repentance look like in your practical actions, beyond mere intellectual acknowledgment or verbal confession?**
* **How does the idea of God as a "teacher" of hidden truths impact your view of suffering or difficult circumstances, moving beyond a punitive understanding?**

### FAQ

**Does Elihu's statement in Job 34:32 apply only to Job, or is it a general principle for all believers?**

Answer: While Elihu articulates this as a general principle of humility and teachability before God, it is indeed directly aimed at Job as a challenge to his self-righteousness and his demands for God to explain Himself. Elihu believes Job has been presumptuous in his accusations against God and needs to adopt this very posture: to admit he might not "see" his own iniquity and to commit to repentance if it is revealed. Elihu's entire discourse aims to correct Job's perspective and defend God's justice, suggesting that Job's suffering could be for instruction and refinement, not just punishment, as seen in [Job 33:17-18](/job/33-17-18 "Job 33:17-17 - God Warns Through Suffering"). However, the principle itself is universally applicable to all who seek to walk humbly with God.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of "unintentional sin" in the Bible?**

Answer: Job 34:32 directly addresses the concept of "unintentional sin" or blind spots. The phrase "That which I see not teach thou me" is a profound plea for God to reveal hidden or unrecognized transgressions. The Old Testament law made specific provisions for unintentional sins (e.g., [Leviticus 4:2](/leviticus/4-2 "Leviticus 4:2 - Sins of Unwittingly Doing Wrong")), acknowledging that people could violate God's commands without realizing it. This verse extends that idea to a personal, humble request for divine illumination, recognizing that human self-assessment is often flawed. It emphasizes that even if one is unaware of sin, a repentant heart should be willing to be taught and to forsake it once it is brought to light, demonstrating a proactive desire for holiness.

**Is it possible for a truly righteous person to have "iniquity" they don't see?**

Answer: Yes, absolutely. The Bible consistently teaches that all humanity is fallen and prone to sin, even the most devout. [Psalm 19:12](/psalm/19-12 "Psalm 19:12 - Who Can Discern His Errors?") poignantly asks, "Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults." Even individuals described as righteous, like Job himself (initially described as "blameless and upright" in [Job 1:1](/job/1-1 "Job 1:1 - Job's Character")), can have blind spots, unconscious biases, or ingrained patterns of thought or behavior that are not fully aligned with God's perfect will. Job, despite his initial righteousness, still needed to be refined and gain a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty, which he did by the end of the book (see [Job 42:5-6](/job/42-5-6 "Job 42:5-6 - Job's Repentance")). This verse encourages a lifelong posture of humility, self-examination, and openness to divine correction for everyone, regardless of their perceived righteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Job 34:32, though spoken by Elihu in the Old Testament, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The plea, "That which I see not teach thou me," profoundly reflects humanity's desperate need for divine revelation concerning the true nature of sin, righteousness, and God's sovereign purposes. This revelation is fully embodied in Christ, who is the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), the ultimate teacher sent from God ([John 3:2](/john/3-2 "John 3:2 - Nicodemus's Acknowledgment")), and the very light that exposes darkness ([John 1:9](/john/1-9 "John 1:9 - The True Light")). He not only illuminates our hidden faults and the depths of our iniquity but also provides the sole means for their forgiveness and removal through His atoning sacrifice. The commitment, "if I have done iniquity, I will do no more," points forward to the transformative power of the Gospel. Through faith in Christ, we are not merely taught about sin; we are supernaturally [freed from its dominion](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified") and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live a new life, genuinely turning away from sin and walking in obedience ([Romans 6:11-14](/romans/6-11-14 "Romans 6:11-14 - Dead to Sin, Alive to God")). Jesus, the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore our iniquities, making it truly possible for us to "do no more" by providing both complete forgiveness for past sins and the indwelling power to overcome future temptation ([1 John 2:1-2](/1_john/2-1-2 "1 John 2:1-2 - Christ Our Advocate")). He is the one who perfectly fulfilled this posture of humility and obedience, even to death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")), thereby becoming our perfect example and the divine source of our ability to live righteously.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 32:8

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

Psalms 19:12

Who can understand [his] errors? cleanse thou me from secret [faults].

Psalms 139:23

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

Psalms 139:24

And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalms 25:4

Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.

Psalms 25:5

Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou [art] the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.

Proverbs 28:13

¶ He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.