What happensPermalink
Eliphaz begins the second round of speeches by accusing Job of empty talk. He says Job’s own mouth condemns him, because his complaints undermine the fear of God and prove his iniquity. He again insists no human being is pure before God, then describes the wicked as living in terror, darkness, distress, and eventual ruin.
Why it mattersPermalink
Eliphaz hardens from mistaken comforter into open accuser. He rightly says human beings are impure before God, but wrongly treats Job’s lament as rebellion and his suffering as proof of wickedness. He mercilessly doubles down, saying that Job’s loss of prosperity and children is indicative of God’s judgment for his iniquity.
Key versePermalink
Your own mouth condemns you, and not I; your own lips testify against you.