Job 34:37

For he addeth rebellion unto his sin, he clappeth [his hands] among us, and multiplieth his words against God.

For he addeth {H3254} rebellion {H6588} unto his sin {H2403}, he clappeth {H5606} his hands among us, and multiplieth {H7235} his words {H561} against God {H410}.

For now to his sin he adds rebellion; he [mockingly] claps his hands among us and keeps adding to his words against God."

For he adds rebellion to his sin; he claps his hands among us and multiplies his words against God.”

For he addeth rebellion unto his sin; He clappeth his hands among us, And multiplieth his words against God.

Commentary

Job 34:37 is part of Elihu's discourse, where he accuses Job of compounding his suffering with defiant speech and attitude towards God.

Context

This verse comes from the speeches of Elihu, a younger man who enters the debate after Job and his three friends have finished speaking. Elihu believes that both Job and his friends have erred. He sees Job's suffering not as random or purely punitive, but as a means of discipline and instruction from God. Here, Elihu strongly condemns Job's persistent questioning and perceived self-justification, interpreting it not just as complaint, but as active rebellion and contempt directed at the Almighty. He feels Job is not simply suffering, but actively adding sin through his words and actions.

Key Themes

  • Compounding Sin: Elihu accuses Job of escalating his initial state (which Elihu might see as a consequence of sin or a test) by adding the sin of rebellion and defiant speech.
  • Open Contempt: The phrase "he clappeth [his hands] among us" suggests an open, perhaps scornful or triumphant, display of defiance or disregard, not just private grumbling. It signifies an attitude of contempt or opposition towards those present or even God Himself.
  • Speaking Against God: Job's "multiplie[d] words against God" refers to his numerous complaints, questions, and challenges to God's justice and character throughout the preceding chapters. Elihu views this as a serious offense.
  • Rebellion: The core accusation is that Job's attitude and words constitute rebellion against divine authority and wisdom. This is a grave charge in the biblical narrative.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "he clappeth [his hands]" in the KJV can carry connotations of scorn, derision, or defiant rejoicing, often used to express contempt or opposition. While context is key, in Elihu's accusation, it emphasizes the perceived insolence of Job's attitude. "Multiplieth his words" simply means speaking many words, but in this context, it highlights the persistence and volume of Job's complaints directed "against God."

Related Scriptures

Elihu's perspective here stands in contrast to the later vindication of Job's integrity by God (see Job 42:7). The concept of speaking against God is addressed elsewhere in Scripture, often with severe warnings (Psalm 73:9). The idea of rebellion is consistently presented as a serious sin (1 Samuel 15:23).

Reflection

Job 34:37 serves as a stark reminder of how suffering can test our attitude towards God. While the book of Job ultimately shows the complexity of suffering and God's purposes, Elihu's words caution against letting frustration or perceived injustice lead to open defiance or bitter accusations against the Almighty. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and words during trials, ensuring we do not add the sin of rebellion to our struggles, but rather seek to understand and trust God's sovereign plan, even when it is difficult.

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Cross-References

  • Job 27:23 (5 votes)

    [Men] shall clap their hands at him, and shall hiss him out of his place.

  • 1 Samuel 15:23 (3 votes)

    For rebellion [is as] the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness [is as] iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from [being] king.

  • Isaiah 1:19 (3 votes)

    If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:

  • Isaiah 1:20 (3 votes)

    But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].

  • Job 35:2 (2 votes)

    Thinkest thou this to be right, [that] thou saidst, My righteousness [is] more than God's?

  • Job 35:3 (2 votes)

    For thou saidst, What advantage will it be unto thee? [and], What profit shall I have, [if I be cleansed] from my sin?

  • Job 35:16 (2 votes)

    Therefore doth Job open his mouth in vain; he multiplieth words without knowledge.