Job 34:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 34:27
27 Because they turned back from him, and would not consider any of his ways:
Chapter Context
Job 34 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, judgment. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 34:27
27 Because they turned back from him, and would not consider any of his ways:
Analysis
Because they turned back from him (אֲשֶׁר עַל־כֵּן סָרוּ מֵאַחֲרָיו)—The verb saru (they turned aside/departed) with me'acharav (from after Him) depicts deliberate apostasy. Following God (acharav, literally 'after Him') represents covenant loyalty; turning from this path is rebellion. This isn't ignorance but willful rejection of known truth. Romans 1:21 describes this progression: 'when they knew God, they glorified him not as God.'
And would not consider any of his ways (וְכָל־דְּרָכָיו לֹא הִשְׂכִּילוּ)—The verb hiskilu (from sakal, to be prudent, understand wisely) in the negative shows refusal to contemplate or obey divine ways. Derakav (His ways) denotes God's revealed patterns of righteousness and justice. Willful ignorance—refusing to consider God's ways despite opportunity—compounds guilt. Proverbs 1:7 warns: 'Fools despise wisdom and instruction.' The wicked judgment in verses 24-26 results from deliberate rejection, not innocent error. This establishes moral culpability—they knew better but chose rebellion.
Historical Context
In covenant relationship (Sinai, Davidic, New Covenant), 'walking after' God described loyal obedience while 'turning aside' meant apostasy. Deuteronomy repeatedly warned against turning from God's ways (Deuteronomy 11:16, 28; 31:29). Israel's history demonstrated this pattern: blessing followed obedience, judgment followed apostasy. Elihu applies this covenantal framework universally—all humanity has access to natural revelation (Romans 1:19-20) and is accountable for response.
Reflection
- How can we guard against the progression from following God to gradually turning aside from His ways?
- What does it mean practically to 'consider His ways' in daily decision-making and life direction?
- How does willful refusal to consider God's ways increase moral culpability compared to ignorant error?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 15:11, Psalms 28:5, Isaiah 5:12, Hebrews 10:39