Job 22:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Is it any pleasure to the Almighty, that thou art righteous? or is it gain to him, that thou makest thy ways perfect?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eliphaz questions whether Job's righteousness brings the Almighty any pleasure or gain.
What Does Job 22:3 Mean?
Continuing his argument, Eliphaz presses the point: does God gain anything when a person lives uprightly? He frames it to suggest that Job's claim of innocence is beside the point, since God owes him nothing for it.
Eliphaz speaks more truly than he knows, but draws the wrong lesson. Scripture elsewhere shows that the Lord does take pleasure in those who fear Him and walk in His ways. He delights not because He profits, but because a righteous life reflects His own character. Our obedience is never a transaction; it is the glad response of children to a Father who first loved them.
Job 22:3 in the Original Language
Shaddai (שַׁדַּי), 'Almighty' -- an ancient name for God stressing His overwhelming sufficiency and power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Job 22:3
What does Job 22:3 mean?
Eliphaz questions whether Job's righteousness brings the Almighty any pleasure or gain.