Job 33:17

“That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man.”

This verse is part of a longer speech given by Elihu, one of Job’s friends, as he tries to provide an explanation for Job’s suffering and address Job’s complaints. Elihu offers insights and attempts to reconcile Job’s situation with God’s righteousness.

To better understand the meaning of Job 33:17, let’s examine the verse in context:

Job 33:14-18 (KJV):

“For God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed; Then he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction, That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man. He keepeth back his soul from the pit, and his life from perishing by the sword.”

In this passage, Elihu emphasizes how God speaks to humans through dreams and visions. Elihu asserts that God uses these experiences to open the ears of people and seal their instruction. The purpose behind this is twofold: to withdraw man from his own harmful purposes and to hide pride from man.

Withdraw Man from His Purpose:This portion suggests that God uses dreams and visions to redirect or discourage individuals from pursuing their own harmful or self-centered plans. God, in His wisdom and love, intervenes to protect individuals from destructive paths they might have chosen. This highlights God’s sovereignty and His desire to guide humanity onto the right path.

Hide Pride from Man:This part highlights the humbling effect of dreams and visions. Pride often blinds people to their faults and prevents them from acknowledging their need for God’s guidance and correction. Dreams and visions, as tools of divine instruction, can serve to humble individuals and make them more receptive to God’s wisdom and correction.

Overall, Job 33:17 conveys the idea that God communicates with humans through dreams and visions, intending to redirect them from harmful paths and humble them by revealing their pride. It emphasizes God’s role as a loving and guiding presence in our lives, intervening for our ultimate benefit.

It’s important to note that while Elihu’s speeches in the book of Job provide some insights, they are not considered part of the ultimate resolution of Job’s situation. God later speaks to Job directly and provides His own explanation. Nonetheless, Elihu’s words offer valuable reflections on God’s ways and the purpose of dreams and visions in His interaction with humanity.