Old Testament
Job 32:13
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Lest you should say, 'We have found out wisdom; God thrusts him down, not man.'
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Lest ye should say, We have found out wisdom: God thrusteth him down, not man.
What Job 32:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Elihu, a young man who has been listening to the discussions between Job and his friends, warns against the arrogance of claiming to have discovered wisdom on one's own. He emphasizes that true understanding and insight come from God, not from human effort or reasoning. Elihu suggests that if people were to boast about their wisdom, they would be mistaken, as it is ultimately God who has the authority to elevate or humble individuals. This statement serves as a reminder that human wisdom is limited and that divine wisdom surpasses all human understanding. Elihu's assertion sets the stage for his arguments about God's justice and the need for humility in the face of divine authority. It highlights the importance of recognizing our dependence on God for true knowledge and understanding, rather than relying solely on our own intellect or experiences.
How to apply Job 32:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain humble in our pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. We should recognize that our understanding is limited and that we must seek guidance from God. Instead of boasting about our insights, we should acknowledge our dependence on divine wisdom and be open to learning from others.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Elihu Speaks (Job 32:1–37:24)
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Job
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Job 32:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 32:13 teach about human wisdom?
Job 32:13 emphasizes that human wisdom is limited and can lead to arrogance. Elihu warns that claiming to have discovered wisdom on our own is misguided, as true understanding comes from God. This verse reminds us that we should not boast about our insights, but rather recognize our dependence on divine wisdom.
How can we apply the message of Job 32:13 in our lives?
To apply the message of Job 32:13, we should cultivate humility in our pursuit of knowledge. Acknowledge that our understanding is finite and seek guidance from God through prayer and scripture. Instead of relying solely on our intellect, we should be open to learning from others and recognize that true wisdom comes from God.
What is the significance of God's authority in Job 32:13?
In Job 32:13, God's authority is highlighted as the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding. Elihu points out that it is God who has the power to elevate or humble individuals, reinforcing the idea that human reasoning is insufficient without divine insight. This underscores the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in our lives.
Why does Elihu warn against boasting about wisdom in Job 32:13?
Elihu warns against boasting about wisdom in Job 32:13 because such arrogance can lead to a false sense of security in one's understanding. He stresses that true wisdom is a gift from God, and claiming it as one's own can blind individuals to their limitations. This serves as a reminder to remain humble and reliant on divine guidance.
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