Job 37:24
Men do therefore fear him: he respecteth not any that are wise of heart.
Original Language Analysis
לָ֭כֵן
H3651
לָ֭כֵן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
יְרֵא֣וּהוּ
do therefore fear
H3372
יְרֵא֣וּהוּ
do therefore fear
Strong's:
H3372
Word #:
2 of 8
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
אֲנָשִׁ֑ים
Men
H582
אֲנָשִׁ֑ים
Men
Strong's:
H582
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
לֹֽא
H3808
לֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִ֝רְאֶ֗ה
him he respecteth
H7200
יִ֝רְאֶ֗ה
him he respecteth
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
5 of 8
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Matthew 10:28And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.1 Corinthians 1:26For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:Isaiah 5:21Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!Psalms 130:4But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.Job 5:13He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.Romans 2:4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom traditions valued intellectual achievement and learning. However, biblical wisdom literature consistently subordinates human wisdom to divine revelation and moral character. Proverbs declares "the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom" (9:10)—not vice versa. Elihu's conclusion aligns with this tradition, though his verbose delivery undercuts his message.
Questions for Reflection
- How does intellectual achievement in theology relate to genuine knowledge of God?
- What is the difference between being wise and being "wise of heart" in ways God doesn't respect?
- How can we pursue theological learning while maintaining the humility that attracts God's attention?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Elihu concludes: "Men do therefore fear him: he respecteth not any that are wise of heart." The verb yare (יָרֵא, "fear") means reverential awe. The phrase "wise of heart" (chakhemei-lev, חַכְמֵי־לֵב) describes those who consider themselves intelligent or discerning. The verb ra'ah (רָאָה, "respecteth") in negative form means God doesn't regard or show partiality toward self-perceived wisdom. Elihu correctly asserts that God's greatness should inspire fear and that human wisdom doesn't impress Him. This echoes Isaiah 66:2: God esteems "him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word." From a Reformed perspective, this demonstrates that intellectual achievement doesn't grant special access to God—He reveals Himself to the humble, not the proud (James 4:6). Yet Elihu's lengthy speeches (six chapters!) ironically demonstrate self-important wisdom. True fear of the Lord requires not only theological knowledge but heart humility—something Elihu professes better than he practices.