Job 36:4

KJV

For truly my words [shall] not [be] false: he that is perfect in knowledge [is] with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

For truly {H551} my words {H4405} shall not be false {H8267}: he that is perfect {H8549} in knowledge {H1844} is with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the fact is that my words are true; you have with you a man whose views are pure.

Berean Standard Bible

For truly my words are free of falsehood; one perfect in knowledge is with you.

American Standard Version

For truly my words are not false: One that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 36:4 encapsulates a crucial declaration from Elihu, the youngest of Job's interlocutors, as he continues his extensive theological discourse. With an emphatic assertion of the truthfulness and reliability of his own words, Elihu positions himself as a distinct conduit of divine insight, claiming to possess or channel "perfect knowledge" directly to Job. This statement serves to distinguish his counsel from the flawed arguments of Job's three friends and Job's own limited understanding, setting the stage for his subsequent explanations of God's justice and wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Elihu's protracted monologue, which spans from [Job 32](/job/32 "Job 32 - Elihu's Introduction") through [Job 37](/job/37 "Job 37 - Elihu's Conclusion"). Elihu enters the dialogue after Job and his three friends have exhausted their arguments, expressing indignation at both Job's self-justification and the friends' inability to provide a satisfactory refutation. Elihu presents himself as a younger, yet divinely inspired, voice, claiming to offer fresh, uncorrupted insight into God's ways. His words in [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") function as a foundational statement of his authority and the purported infallibility of his message, preparing the reader for his subsequent theological explanations regarding God's justice, power, and the purpose of suffering. He had previously established his intent to speak with wisdom and conviction, as indicated in his initial declaration in [Job 32:6-10](/job/32-6-10 "Job 32:6-10 - Elihu's Initial Justification for Speaking").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Job is a profound example of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, a genre that delved into complex questions concerning suffering, divine justice, and the nature of true wisdom. In this cultural setting, wisdom was often associated with age, experience, and, crucially, divine revelation. Counselors and elders held significant social and religious authority, and their pronouncements were expected to carry considerable weight. Elihu, despite his relative youth, asserts a higher authority—that of divine inspiration—to justify his intervention in the established discourse. The concept of "perfect knowledge" would have resonated deeply with the ancient understanding of divine omniscience, sharply contrasting with the inherently limited human perspective. The entire dialogue itself reflects the common ancient practice of disputation, where individuals engaged in elaborate rhetorical exchanges to defend their viewpoints, frequently invoking the divine to bolster their claims to truth.

* **Key Themes:** [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Job. Firstly, it underscores **Elihu's Assertion of Authority and Wisdom**. Unlike Job's friends, Elihu does not merely offer human reasoning; he claims his words are "not false," implying a divine source and an unassailable truthfulness. This positions him as a unique intermediary, a vessel for God's wisdom, setting him apart from the previous speakers. Secondly, the verse directly engages with the **Nature of Knowledge and Understanding**. Elihu's bold claim to "perfect knowledge" (or that one "perfect in knowledge" is with Job) directly confronts the demonstrated limitations of human understanding exhibited by both Job and his friends throughout their arguments. It subtly foreshadows the ultimate revelation of true, incomprehensible divine wisdom that God himself will provide in His speeches from the whirlwind in [Job 38](/job/38 "Job 38 - God's First Speech") and [Job 39](/job/39 "Job 39 - God's Second Speech"). Thirdly, the verse touches upon the theme of **Divine Presence and Omniscience**. Even if Elihu refers to himself, the underlying implication is that God, who truly possesses perfect knowledge, is intimately aware of Job's situation, even when Job feels abandoned. Elihu's discourse attempts to bridge the gap between Job's perception of a distant God and the reality of God's sovereign, all-knowing presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **truly (Hebrew, _ʼomnâm'_):** This adverb emphasizes certainty and affirmation. From the root meaning "firmness" or "faithfulness," _ʼomnâm'_ conveys a sense of "verily," "indeed," or "surely." Elihu uses it to underscore the absolute reliability and truthfulness of his subsequent statements, lending an air of solemnity and divine authority to his words.
* **false (Hebrew, _sheqer'_):** The Hebrew word שֶׁקֶר (_sheqer'_) denotes "untruth," "deceit," "lie," or "sham." When negated, as in "not false" (לֹא־שֶׁקֶר, _lo'-sheqer'_), it emphatically declares the speaker's words to be free from error, deception, or any deviation from the truth. Elihu's assertion here is a strong claim that his pronouncements possess a divine, unassailable quality, setting them apart from mere human conjecture.
* **perfect (Hebrew, _tâmîym'_):** The Hebrew word תָּמִים (_tâmîym'_) is rich in meaning, encompassing "entire," "complete," "whole," "sound," "blameless," or "without blemish." When applied to "knowledge" (דֵּעָה, _dêʻâh'_), it signifies a comprehensive, flawless, or unimpeachable understanding. Elihu's use of _tâmîym'_ suggests not merely a great deal of knowledge, but a knowledge that is entirely sound, lacking nothing, and free from any defect or error. This is a very high claim, typically reserved for attributes of God.
* **knowledge (Hebrew, _dêʻâh'_):** The Hebrew word דֵּעָה (_dêʻâh'_) simply means "knowledge" or "understanding." In the context of Job, and particularly in Elihu's discourse, it refers to an understanding of God's ways, His justice, His purposes, and the intricacies of His interaction with humanity. When combined with _tâmîym'_ ("perfect"), it points to a profound, comprehensive, and accurate grasp of divine truth, suggesting an insight that transcends ordinary human comprehension.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For truly my words shall not be false":** Elihu begins this verse with a powerful affirmation of the veracity and reliability of his impending statements. The adverb "truly" (Hebrew _ʼomnâm'_) emphasizes the certainty and unshakeable nature he attributes to his own speech. This is not presented as a mere opinion or a speculative guess, but as a declaration of absolute truthfulness, implicitly claiming a divine source for his insights. This bold assertion immediately sets his discourse apart from the perceived errors and inadequacies of Job and his three friends, establishing his authority.
* **"he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee":** This clause is subject to scholarly interpretation, but the most common understanding is that "he that is perfect in knowledge" refers to Elihu himself, or perhaps to the divine wisdom that Elihu believes he embodies or channels. By stating that this "perfect knowledge" is "with thee" (i.e., with Job), Elihu asserts that he is bringing this comprehensive, flawless understanding directly to Job. He positions himself as the one who can provide the definitive answers and insights that Job desperately needs and that his friends failed to deliver, making a bold claim of personal authority and divine illumination.

#### Literary Devices
Elihu's declaration in [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") employs several potent literary devices to establish his unique position and the weight of his message. Foremost is **Assertion**, as Elihu unequivocally declares the truthfulness of his words and the presence of "perfect knowledge." This is a direct, forceful statement intended to establish his credibility and authority from the outset. Closely related is the **Claim of Authority**, where Elihu, despite his youth, positions himself as a superior interpreter of divine truth, implicitly contrasting his wisdom with the perceived failures of Job's older friends. He presents himself as a uniquely qualified voice, perhaps even divinely inspired. There is also an element of **Irony** present, as Elihu, a human, claims "perfect knowledge," a quality ultimately belonging only to God. This sets up a subtle tension that will be dramatically resolved when God himself speaks from the whirlwind in [Job 38](/job/38 "Job 38 - God's First Speech") and [Job 39](/job/39 "Job 39 - God's Second Speech"), demonstrating true, unassailable, and perfect knowledge that far surpasses any human claim, including Elihu's.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Elihu's bold claim in [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") highlights a crucial theological tension woven throughout the Book of Job and the broader biblical narrative: the profound contrast between finite human understanding and infinite divine omniscience. While Elihu asserts his words are "not false" and that he possesses "perfect knowledge," the consistent biblical witness is that true, perfect, and unsearchable knowledge and wisdom belong solely to God. Human wisdom, even at its most profound, remains inherently partial, limited, and fallible. This verse, therefore, serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of human presumption in theological discourse and the absolute necessity of humility when attempting to interpret God's mysterious ways. It underscores that while humanity may strive for truth and understanding, ultimate truth and perfect comprehension reside only in the Creator, who alone possesses all wisdom.

* [Psalm 139:6](/psalms/139-6 "Psalm 139:6 - God's Unsearchable Knowledge")
* [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - The Lord Gives Wisdom")
* [1 Corinthians 1:25](/1_corinthians/1-25 "1 Corinthians 1:25 - God's Foolishness Wiser Than Human Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Elihu's confident declaration in [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") invites us to deeply reflect on the source and nature of our own understanding, particularly when we speak about God or offer counsel to others in their suffering. While Elihu's sincerity and good intentions are not in doubt, his audacious claim to "perfect knowledge" serves as a profound cautionary tale for all believers: true wisdom begins not with intellectual prowess or self-assured pronouncements, but with the fear of the Lord and a humble recognition of our inherent intellectual and spiritual limitations. We are indeed called to speak truth, but always with a profound awareness that our knowledge is partial, unlike God's. This verse encourages us to pursue a deeper understanding of God's character and ways, not with an aim to master or fully comprehend Him, but to worship Him in His incomprehensible wisdom and sovereign mystery. Moreover, it offers immense comfort, reminding us that even when we feel misunderstood, our circumstances seem inexplicable, or our questions remain unanswered, God, who truly is perfect in knowledge, is intimately aware of our plight and is always with us, holding all things in His perfect understanding.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Elihu's assertion challenge our own claims to understanding God's ways, especially when we offer advice or theological explanations to others in their suffering?**
* **In what ways might we, like Elihu, be tempted to speak with unearned authority or absolute certainty about divine matters, rather than with humility and dependence on God?**
* **How does the biblical concept of God's "perfect knowledge" bring comfort or conviction in our personal struggles, unanswered questions, and moments of doubt?**
* **What does it mean to speak words that are "not false" in our daily interactions, and how does this commitment to truthfulness relate to our faith and witness?**

### FAQ

**Is Elihu's claim of "perfect knowledge" truly accurate according to the rest of the Bible?**

Answer: From a human perspective, Elihu sincerely believes his words are divinely inspired and represent a complete understanding, superior to both Job's and his friends'. However, from a broader biblical and theological standpoint, his claim to "perfect knowledge" (תָּמִים דֵּעָה, _tamim de'ah_) is ultimately an overstatement. The Bible consistently attributes perfect, comprehensive, and unsearchable knowledge solely to God (e.g., [Psalm 147:5](/psalms/147-5 "Psalm 147:5 - God's Understanding is Infinite")). While Elihu offers profound insights that align with God's character and prepares the way for God's direct revelation, his human perspective is still limited. The true "perfect knowledge" is revealed when God himself speaks from the whirlwind in [Job 38-41](/job/38 "Job 38 - God's First Speech"), demonstrating a wisdom and power that far surpass any human comprehension, including Elihu's. Elihu's words are a significant part of the dialogue, but they are not the final word of perfect knowledge.

**What is the significance of Elihu saying "is with thee"?**

Answer: The phrase "he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee" (וּתְמִים דֵּעוֹת עִמָּךְ, _u-t'mim de'ot immakh_) carries significant weight, emphasizing proximity and direct engagement. If Elihu is referring to himself, it means he is asserting that *he*, as the one possessing or channeling this perfect knowledge, is physically present with Job, directly addressing his situation and providing the ultimate answer. It signifies a direct, personal encounter with this superior wisdom. Alternatively, some interpretations suggest "he that is perfect in knowledge" could refer to God Himself, implying that God's all-knowing presence is intimately with Job, even in his suffering, though Job may not perceive it. In either case, the phrase underscores that the source of ultimate understanding is not distant but immediately accessible to Job through Elihu's discourse or through the very presence of God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Elihu's assertion in [Job 36:4](/job/36-4 "Job 36:4 - Elihu's Claim of Perfect Knowledge") that "my words shall not be false: he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee" finds its ultimate and truly perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Elihu, a human, could only aspire to or channel a measure of divine understanding, Jesus is the very embodiment of God's perfect knowledge and truth. He is the [Logos, the Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), through whom all things were created and in whom all wisdom resides. The Apostle Paul declares that in Christ "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")), and that Christ himself is "the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ, the Power and Wisdom of God")). Unlike Elihu's human claim, Jesus' words are truly "not false" because He is "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), the very essence of truth personified. Moreover, the promise that "he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee" is perfectly realized in Christ's incarnate presence among humanity ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us"), meaning "God with us") and His enduring promise to be "with you always, to the very end of the age" through the Holy Spirit ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise to Be With Us Always")). In Jesus, we encounter not merely a messenger of perfect knowledge, but perfect knowledge personified, dwelling among us, understanding our deepest suffering, and offering the ultimate truth, comfort, and salvation.

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

Job 37:16

Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?

2 Timothy 3:16

All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Timothy 3:17

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Proverbs 8:7

For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness [is] an abomination to my lips.

Proverbs 8:8

All the words of my mouth [are] in righteousness; [there is] nothing froward or perverse in them.

1 Corinthians 14:20

Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.

2 Corinthians 2:17

For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.