Job 36:15

Authorized King James Version

PDF

He delivereth the poor in his affliction, and openeth their ears in oppression.

Original Language Analysis

יְחַלֵּ֣ץ He delivereth H2502
יְחַלֵּ֣ץ He delivereth
Strong's: H2502
Word #: 1 of 6
to pull off; hence (intensively) to strip, (reflexive) to depart; by implication, to deliver, equip (for fight); present, strengthen
עָנִ֣י the poor H6041
עָנִ֣י the poor
Strong's: H6041
Word #: 2 of 6
depressed, in mind or circumstances
בְעָנְי֑וֹ in his affliction H6040
בְעָנְי֑וֹ in his affliction
Strong's: H6040
Word #: 3 of 6
depression, i.e., misery
וְיִ֖גֶל and openeth H1540
וְיִ֖גֶל and openeth
Strong's: H1540
Word #: 4 of 6
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
בַּלַּ֣חַץ in oppression H3906
בַּלַּ֣חַץ in oppression
Strong's: H3906
Word #: 5 of 6
distress
אָזְנָֽם׃ their ears H241
אָזְנָֽם׃ their ears
Strong's: H241
Word #: 6 of 6
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

Analysis & Commentary

Elihu claims: 'He delivereth the poor in his affliction, and openeth their ears in oppression.' This introduces the pedagogical theme - suffering teaches. While containing truth, this doesn't fully explain innocent suffering like Job's.

Historical Context

Ancient wisdom recognized suffering's instructional value. Elihu's observation is partially correct but incomplete as explanation for all suffering.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Bible Stories