Chapters of the Bible

Job powerfully refutes his friends' central argument, pointing out that in the real world, the wicked often prosper until the end of their lives, dying in peace without suffering the severe calamities he has faced.

Eliphaz begins the final cycle of debates, now openly accusing Job of specific, gross sins, such as extortion and oppressing the poor. He commands Job to reconcile with God and receive restoration.

Job longs to find God's presence so he can argue his case directly. Job expresses his confidence in his own integrity, knowing that when God tests him, he will come forth as gold.

Job laments the state of the world, where injustice and violence go unpunished. He points out that the wicked steal, murder, and oppress without fear of immediate retribution.

Bildad offers a brief, final statement, reiterating the vastness of God’s power and the sinfulness of all humanity, implying that Job is wrong to question God's methods.

Job sarcastically replies to Bildad's brief counsel, mocking his friends for offering no help. Job delivers a majestic description of God's immense power over creation, the seas, and the underworld.

Job affirms his determination to hold onto his integrity, refusing to admit to sins he did not commit. He repeats the common theme that the wicked will ultimately receive God's judgment.

Job praises the great effort humans put into mining the earth for precious gems and metals. He concludes that though man is skilled in finding earth's treasures, wisdom cannot be found on earth but comes only from God.

Job contrasts his present state of suffering and scorn with the glory of his past life, remembering how he was honored, respected, and a zealous advocate for the poor and the weak.

Job describes his present humiliation, detailing how he is now mocked by the lowest members of society and afflicted by disease. He again cries out, lamenting that God has become his cruel enemy.

Job concludes his defense, swearing a powerful oath of innocence. He vows he has never committed adultery, oppression, dishonesty, or ignored the needs of the poor, declaring he is ready for God to judge him.

A younger man named Elihu enters the debate, having remained silent because of the age of the three friends. Elihu sternly rebukes Job for claiming to be innocent, but also rebukes the friends for failing to answer Job effectively.