Job 36:19

KJV

Will he esteem thy riches? [no], not gold, nor all the forces of strength.

KJV (with Strong's)

Will he esteem {H6186} thy riches {H7769}? no, not gold {H1222}, nor all the forces {H3981} of strength {H3581}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Will your great wealth help you? or all your efforts, no matter how strong?

Berean Standard Bible

Can your wealth or all your mighty effort keep you from distress?

American Standard Version

Will thy cry avail, that thou be not in distress, Or all the forces ofthystrength?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 36:19 presents Elihu's profound rhetorical question, emphatically asserting that God is utterly unswayed by human wealth, material possessions, or any display of earthly power and might. This verse serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty, His divine impartiality, and His transcendent independence from all human attempts to influence, impress, or bribe Him. Elihu’s statement underscores that God's judgments and dealings with humanity are based purely on His righteous character and unchallengeable divine will, not on what individuals possess or their worldly standing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Job 36:19 is situated within Elihu's extensive and climactic discourse, spanning chapters 32 through 37 of the book of Job. Elihu, the youngest of Job's counselors, arrives on the scene after Job and his three friends have exhausted their arguments, claiming to have a fresh revelation from God. Unlike the friends, who rigidly adhere to the retribution principle (suffering equals sin), Elihu attempts to refine the understanding of divine justice, suggesting that suffering can also be disciplinary, redemptive, or a means for God to reveal Himself. In chapters 36 and 37, Elihu specifically focuses on God's greatness, majesty, and unsearchable wisdom, often using illustrations from nature and the divine administration of justice. This verse, therefore, serves as a direct challenge to any human presumption that God can be manipulated or impressed by human achievements or resources, preparing the way for God's own direct address to Job in [Job 38](/job/38 "Job 38 - The Lord Answers Job from the Whirlwind"). Elihu is essentially dismantling any lingering notion Job might have that his former status or wealth could have, or should have, exempted him from his current suffering or influenced God's actions.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, wealth, particularly in the form of gold, silver, livestock, and land, was often seen as a tangible sign of divine favor and blessing. Kings and powerful individuals amassed riches and military strength (the "forces of strength") to secure their positions, exert influence, and demonstrate their might. It was common for people to believe that offerings and gifts could appease deities or sway their decisions. Job himself was described as "the greatest of all the people of the East" ([Job 1:3](/job/1-3 "Job 1:3 - Job's Great Wealth")), possessing immense wealth and status. Elihu's statement directly confronts this prevailing worldview, asserting that the God of Israel operates on an entirely different plane. He is not like the pagan deities who could be bribed or impressed by human displays of power. This declaration would have been counter-cultural, emphasizing God's unique transcendence and His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness over any material consideration. The "forces of strength" could encompass military might, political influence, or even personal physical prowess, all highly valued attributes in ancient societies.
* **Key Themes:** Job 36:19 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Job and broader biblical theology. One primary theme is **God's Absolute Sovereignty**, asserting that the Almighty operates entirely independently of human influence or manipulation. Neither vast riches, symbolized by "gold" and "riches," nor immense human strength or power can sway His judgment or command His favor. God's decisions are rooted in His perfect righteousness and unchallengeable will, as seen throughout the biblical narrative, from [Psalm 115:3](/psalms/115-3 "Psalm 115:3 - Our God Is in the Heavens") to [Daniel 4:35](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God Does as He Pleases"). Another crucial theme is **The Insignificance of Worldly Possessions** in the eyes of God when it comes to His divine purposes or the administration of justice. The rhetorical question "Will he esteem thy riches? [no], not gold" powerfully conveys that earthly wealth holds no value in bargaining with the Almighty, echoing the wisdom found in [Proverbs 11:4](/proverbs/11-4 "Proverbs 11:4 - Riches Do Not Profit in the Day of Wrath"). Finally, the verse underscores **Divine Impartiality**. God does not show favoritism based on one's material possessions, social status, or physical might. This truth is foundational to biblical justice, reiterated in passages like [Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God Shows No Partiality") and [Acts 10:34](/acts/10-34 "Acts 10:34 - God Shows No Favoritism"), emphasizing that all humanity stands equally before Him, judged by His perfect standards, not by their external accomplishments.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Esteem (Hebrew, _ʻârak'_ H6186):** This verb means "to set in a row," "to arrange," "to put in order," and by extension, "to compare," "to value," or "to estimate." In this context, Elihu asks if God would "value" or "consider on par" human riches. The emphatic negative answer implies that God does not place any worth on human wealth or power that would influence His divine judgment or actions. His standards and values are entirely separate and superior to human estimations.
* **Gold (Hebrew, _bᵉtsar'_ H1222):** This term refers to "gold," the most precious and concentrated form of wealth in the ancient world, often symbolizing ultimate material value and security. By specifically mentioning gold, Elihu emphasizes that even the most esteemed human treasure holds absolutely no sway or significance in God's eyes when it comes to His divine purposes or His administration of justice. It underscores God's complete independence from human economic systems or material valuations.
* **Strength (Hebrew, _kôach'_ H3581):** This noun denotes "vigor," "force," "might," "power," or "ability." It encompasses not only physical prowess but also military might, political influence, or any form of human capability and resources. Elihu declares that all human "forces of strength," no matter how great or intensely applied (as indicated by the preceding H3981 "forces" or "resources"), are utterly inconsequential and irrelevant when compared to God's infinite power and authority. God neither needs nor benefits from human strength, nor is He intimidated by it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Will he esteem thy riches?"**: This is a direct, rhetorical question posed by Elihu, challenging Job's (and perhaps the audience's) underlying assumptions about God's nature. The implied answer is a resounding "No." Elihu is asserting that God does not place any value on human wealth or material possessions when it comes to His divine dealings, judgments, or the administration of justice. The question targets the common human tendency to believe that wealth grants influence or favor, even with the divine.
* **"[no], not gold,"**: This clause serves as an emphatic clarification and intensification of the preceding statement. "Gold" is the quintessential symbol of ultimate wealth and value in human societies. By specifically negating its influence, Elihu leaves no doubt that even the most precious and concentrated form of human riches holds absolutely no sway with God. It underscores God's complete independence from human economic systems or material valuations.
* **"nor all the forces of strength."**: This final clause broadens the scope beyond mere wealth to encompass all forms of human power, might, and capability. Whether it's military might, political influence, physical prowess, or intellectual acumen, Elihu declares that none of these human "strengths" can impress, intimidate, or divert God from His righteous path. God operates by His own immeasurable power, rendering all human "forces of strength" utterly negligible in comparison.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is primarily structured around a powerful **Rhetorical Question** ("Will he esteem thy riches?"). This device is used not to elicit an answer, but to make a forceful assertion, compelling the listener to acknowledge the undeniable truth that God is not influenced by human wealth or power. The structure also employs **Negative Parallelism** and **Climax**. The initial mention of "riches" is reinforced and intensified by the specific example of "gold," and then further expanded to encompass "all the forces of strength," creating a climactic progression that emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's independence from human influence. The use of **Litotes** (understatement for emphasis) is also present; by stating that God will "not esteem" these things, Elihu implies their utter worthlessness in God's eyes when it comes to His divine purposes, contrasting sharply with the high value humans typically place on them. This creates a profound **Contrast** between human values and divine perspective.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Job 36:19 stands as a powerful theological statement about the nature of God, reinforcing His absolute transcendence and moral purity. It asserts that God is not a being who can be bribed, impressed, or swayed by human external attributes, possessions, or power. This truth is foundational to understanding divine justice and sovereignty. It means that God's judgments are always righteous, impartial, and based on truth, rather than on the superficial appearances or material status of individuals. This concept dismantles any notion of a transactional relationship with God where human wealth or strength could earn favor or avert divine discipline. Instead, it points to a God who demands genuine righteousness and humility, valuing character and spiritual posture far above any earthly accumulation. The verse implicitly challenges humanity to re-evaluate what truly holds value in the cosmic order, shifting focus from temporal gains to eternal principles.

* [Proverbs 11:4](/proverbs/11-4 "Proverbs 11:4 - Riches Do Not Profit in the Day of Wrath")
* [Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God Shows No Partiality")
* [Psalm 62:11](/psalms/62-11 "Psalm 62:11 - Power Belongs to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Job 36:19 serves as a profound and essential corrective for believers in every age, challenging our inherent tendency to rely on earthly security and to measure worth by material accumulation or personal strength. It calls us to a radical re-evaluation of our priorities, reminding us that true security, favor, and lasting significance are found not in what we possess or what we can accomplish, but in our relationship with God and His unwavering character. This verse encourages a deep humility, dismantling any pride that might arise from wealth, status, or ability, as all such things are utterly inconsequential in God's eternal economy. Instead of striving for earthly gain or trusting in our own might, we are called to seek God's kingdom and righteousness above all else, understanding that His justice is perfect, His favor is unbought, and His ways are beyond human manipulation. It compels us to ask: Where do I truly place my trust? What do I truly value? And am I living in a way that reflects God's impartial and transcendent nature?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I subtly (or overtly) believe that my wealth, status, or abilities might impress God or earn His favor?**
* **How does the truth that God is unswayed by "riches" or "strength" challenge my pursuit of material possessions or worldly power?**
* **If God values righteousness and humility above all earthly measures, what practical steps can I take to reorient my priorities and actions accordingly?**
* **How does this verse comfort me in times of weakness or poverty, knowing that my standing before God is not dependent on my circumstances?**

### FAQ

**What is Elihu's main point in asking this rhetorical question?**

Answer: Elihu's main point in Job 36:19 is to emphatically assert God's absolute transcendence, sovereignty, and independence from all human influence. By asking "Will he esteem thy riches? [no], not gold, nor all the forces of strength?", Elihu is dismantling any notion that God can be impressed, swayed, or bribed by human wealth, material possessions, or displays of power. He is reminding Job, and the audience, that God's judgments and actions are based purely on His righteous character and divine will, not on what humans possess or their worldly status. This serves to correct Job's perspective, which Elihu perceives as too focused on human merit and God's perceived injustice, by highlighting God's unchallengeable authority and impartiality, as also seen in [Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God Is Not Partial").

**Does this verse mean God doesn't care about our resources or efforts at all?**

Answer: This verse does not mean God is indifferent to human resources or efforts in general, but rather that He is not *influenced* or *impressed* by them in a way that would alter His justice or divine purposes. God certainly cares about how we use our resources and strength for His glory and the good of others, as taught in passages like [1 Corinthians 10:31](/1_corinthians/10-31 "1 Corinthians 10:31 - Do All to the Glory of God") and [Proverbs 3:9](/proverbs/3-9 "Proverbs 3:9 - Honor the Lord with Your Wealth"). However, Job 36:19 specifically addresses the idea that these things can buy divine favor, manipulate God's judgment, or provide inherent standing before Him. It underscores that our relationship with God is based on grace and righteousness, not on our material wealth or human might.

**How does this verse relate to the prosperity gospel?**

Answer: Job 36:19 stands in direct theological opposition to tenets often found in the prosperity gospel. The prosperity gospel frequently suggests that God's favor is directly linked to material wealth and physical health, implying that spiritual blessings manifest as earthly riches and that faith can be a means to acquire them. Elihu's statement, "Will he esteem thy riches? [no], not gold," fundamentally contradicts the idea that God values or is swayed by human wealth. It asserts that God's justice and blessings are not transactional, nor are they contingent upon or earned by material possessions. Instead, this verse emphasizes God's impartiality and His focus on righteousness and humility, challenging any notion that material gain is a primary indicator of divine favor or a means to manipulate God's hand. It aligns with Jesus's teaching that one "cannot serve God and money" ([Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - Cannot Serve God and Money")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Job 36:19 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The verse declares that God does not esteem human riches or the forces of strength, a truth perfectly embodied by the Incarnation. The Son of God, though infinitely rich in glory and power, "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). He entered the world not as a king of earthly wealth or military might, but in humility and poverty, born in a manger and living a life with "nowhere to lay his head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")). His kingdom was not of this world, and He explicitly warned against the dangers of earthly wealth, stating that it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven ([Matthew 19:23-24](/matthew/19-23-24 "Matthew 19:23-24 - The Rich Young Man")).

Furthermore, the verse's emphasis on God's impartiality finds its apex in Christ. Jesus came to save all, regardless of their social status, wealth, or power, demonstrating that salvation is a gift of grace, not something earned or purchased by human merit or possessions ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")). His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate demonstration that human "riches" or "strength" could not atone for sin; only the perfect, unblemished Lamb of God could take away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). In Christ, God's justice is perfectly satisfied, and His favor is freely extended to all who believe, proving that divine esteem is based on the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, not on any earthly valuation. He is the impartial judge who judges according to truth, not appearance ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Entrusted All Judgment to the Son")).

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

Proverbs 11:4

¶ Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

Proverbs 11:21

¶ [Though] hand [join] in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

James 5:3

Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.

Isaiah 2:20

In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made [each one] for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats;

Proverbs 10:2

¶ Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.

Isaiah 37:36

Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they [were] all dead corpses.

Zephaniah 1:18

Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the LORD'S wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.