Job 32:13

Hebrew Aleppo Codex Bible

יג  פן-תאמרו מצאנו חכמה    אל ידפנו לא-איש

What Does This Mean?

This verse is from Elihu's speech in Job. He warns Job and his friends not to think they have all the wisdom because God can bring down anyone, not just people. The key message is that true wisdom comes from God and not from human understanding alone.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game, and you think you know all the rules. But then something unexpected happens, and you realize there's more to learn. That's what Elihu is saying about wisdom. God knows everything, and He can show us we don't know as much as we think we do.

Historical Background

The Book of Job was written by an unknown author during the time of the patriarchs, likely between 2000 and 1400 BC. It was written for an audience of Hebrew people who were grappling with the problem of suffering and the nature of God's justice in a world where the righteous often suffer.

Living It Out Today

Imagine you're a student who thinks you've mastered a subject. But then you encounter a challenging problem, and you realize there's more to learn. This verse reminds us that we should always be open to new knowledge and the wisdom that comes from God.

Topics

• wisdom
• human limitation
• divine justice
• suffering
• knowledge
• humble learning

Related Verses

• Psalms 94:11
• Proverbs 3:19
• Romans 11:33
• Ephesians 3:19
• 1 Corinthians 1:25

Recommended Reading

Commentary Job Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Aleppo Codex Bible Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Elihu's role in the Book of Job?

Elihu is the fourth friend of Job who speaks to him, offering a perspective that Job and his other friends had not considered. He emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need for Job to understand God's wisdom.

What does it mean that God 'thrusts down' someone?

When Elihu says God 'thrusts down' someone, it means God can bring down someone's pride or status, showing that true wisdom and power come from God, not from human achievements.

How does this verse relate to our understanding of God's wisdom?

This verse reminds us that God's wisdom is beyond human comprehension. We should always be humble and recognize that God has a greater understanding and purpose in our lives.

Can you give an example of a situation where this verse might apply?

If someone thinks they have all the answers in their field of expertise but then faces a situation they can't explain or solve, this verse reminds them to acknowledge the limits of human knowledge and seek God's wisdom.