Job 36:9
Then he sheweth them their work, and their transgressions that they have exceeded.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּגֵּ֣ד
Then he sheweth
H5046
וַיַּגֵּ֣ד
Then he sheweth
Strong's:
H5046
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
וּ֝פִשְׁעֵיהֶ֗ם
and their transgressions
H6588
וּ֝פִשְׁעֵיהֶ֗ם
and their transgressions
Strong's:
H6588
Word #:
4 of 6
a revolt (national, moral or religious)
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom recognized suffering's revelatory function. Egyptian and Mesopotamian texts describe divine discipline, though often portraying gods as capricious. Elihu's theology differs: Yahweh disciplines purposefully to reveal specific transgressions requiring correction. This covenant relationship assumes God cares enough to correct, unlike pagan deities who might torment without redemptive intent. The concept of disciplinary suffering became central to Jewish and Christian theology of sanctification.
Questions for Reflection
- What hidden sins or character flaws has God revealed to you through seasons of affliction?
- How can we cultivate receptiveness to God's corrective work rather than resisting or resenting discipline?
- What's the difference between God showing us our sin and Satan accusing us? How do we discern which voice we're hearing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Then he sheweth them their work—God uses affliction to reveal פָּעֳלָם (po'olam, "their work/deeds"), exposing hidden patterns of behavior. And their transgressions that they have exceeded employs פֶּשַׁע (pesha, "transgression/rebellion") and הִתְגַּבָּרוּ (hitgabbaru, "they have acted arrogantly/exceeded bounds"). The verb means "to be strong" or "prevail," suggesting sin that has grown powerful, unchecked until affliction exposes it.
Elihu's insight: suffering functions diagnostically, revealing spiritual diseases we couldn't see in prosperity. Like an MRI exposing internal damage, affliction illuminates hidden pride, self-reliance, or idolatry. God allows pain to surface transgression before it metastasizes fatally. This merciful intervention prevents greater judgment—better temporary suffering that brings repentance than comfortable sin leading to damnation. Proverbs 3:11-12 teaches this same principle: God's reproof proves His love, as fathers discipline beloved children.