Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job’s three friends who came to speak with him, challenges Job with the question: “Can a vigorous man be of use to God, Or a wise man be useful to himself?” (v.2) Eliphaz, originating from Teman (an area associated with Edom to the southeast of the land of Canaan in the ancient Near East, loosely dated to around 2000-1500 BC), posits that no matter how strong or intelligent a person is, God remains far above human capacity or resources. His words imply that God is not dependent on even the mightiest of people for His divine purposes.
When Eliphaz asks, “Can a vigorous man be of use to God?” (v.2) he is exploring the usefulness or benefit humanity can bring to the Almighty. According to Eliphaz’s worldview, since God is infinitely beyond human limitations, a person’s strength or wisdom does not offer God anything He needs. This mirrors the scriptural theme found elsewhere that human beings cannot earn God’s favor by their abilities (see Ephesians 2:8-9).
Lastly, the question “Or a wise man be useful to himself?” (v.2) raises the point that even our own wisdom is limited to finite applications. While wisdom is precious (Proverbs 8:11), Eliphaz suggests that it pales beside God’s infinite knowledge and sovereignty. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to find their ultimate purpose by humbly acknowledging their dependence on God (James 4:6).
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Job 22:2 meaning
Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job’s three friends who came to speak with him, challenges Job with the question: “Can a vigorous man be of use to God, Or a wise man be useful to himself?” (v.2) Eliphaz, originating from Teman (an area associated with Edom to the southeast of the land of Canaan in the ancient Near East, loosely dated to around 2000-1500 BC), posits that no matter how strong or intelligent a person is, God remains far above human capacity or resources. His words imply that God is not dependent on even the mightiest of people for His divine purposes.
When Eliphaz asks, “Can a vigorous man be of use to God?” (v.2) he is exploring the usefulness or benefit humanity can bring to the Almighty. According to Eliphaz’s worldview, since God is infinitely beyond human limitations, a person’s strength or wisdom does not offer God anything He needs. This mirrors the scriptural theme found elsewhere that human beings cannot earn God’s favor by their abilities (see Ephesians 2:8-9).
Lastly, the question “Or a wise man be useful to himself?” (v.2) raises the point that even our own wisdom is limited to finite applications. While wisdom is precious (Proverbs 8:11), Eliphaz suggests that it pales beside God’s infinite knowledge and sovereignty. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to find their ultimate purpose by humbly acknowledging their dependence on God (James 4:6).