Job 36:13

“But the hypocrites in heart heap up wrath: they cry not when he bindeth them.”

In the Book of Job, the central character, Job, undergoes severe suffering and hardship. Throughout the book, Job and his friends engage in a dialogue to make sense of his suffering and to discern why such calamity has befallen him. Elihu, one of Job’s friends, speaks in Job 36, addressing Job and providing his perspective on the matter.

In verse 13, Elihu refers to hypocrites who harbor anger or wrath in their hearts. Hypocrisy implies a contradiction between one’s external appearance and inward reality. Elihu suggests that these individuals are insincere and deceptive. Instead of expressing genuine remorse or seeking redemption when faced with God’s discipline or correction, they remain unyielding and fail to cry out for mercy.

The verse serves as a cautionary reminder about the dangers of hypocrisy and the importance of genuine repentance. It highlights the need for individuals to examine their hearts and cultivate sincerity and humility before God. Rather than obstinately clinging to pride or anger, a person should acknowledge their faults and weaknesses, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness from God.

Elihu’s words in this verse echo a recurring theme throughout the book of Job – the importance of humility and genuine repentance before God. Job’s friends often attribute his suffering to some hidden sin or transgression, assuming that God is punishing him. Elihu, in his speech, emphasizes the role of divine discipline as a means of correction and redirection, urging Job to heed God’s call to repentance.

Overall, Job 36:13 calls attention to the folly of hypocrisy and the need for heartfelt contrition and humility. It reminds readers of the importance of acknowledging one’s faults and seeking genuine reconciliation with God rather than stubbornly resisting His correction.