King James Version

What Does Job 36:6 Mean?

Job 36:6 in the King James Version says “He preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor. poor: or, afflicted” — study this verse from Job chapter 36 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“He preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor. poor: or, afflicted”

Job 36:6 · KJV

Context

4

For truly my words shall not be false: he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.

5

Behold, God is mighty, and despiseth not any: he is mighty in strength and wisdom. wisdom: Heb. heart

6

He preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor. poor: or, afflicted

7

He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous: but with kings are they on the throne; yea, he doth establish them for ever, and they are exalted.

8

And if they be bound in fetters, and be holden in cords of affliction;

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
He preserveth not the life of the wicked—The Hebrew לֹא־יְחַיֶּה (lo-yechayeh, "does not keep alive") states God's active judgment against רָשָׁע (rasha, "the wicked")—those who live in persistent rebellion. This counters Job's complaint that the wicked prosper (21:7-13). But giveth right to the poor uses מִשְׁפַּט (mishpat, "justice/right") and עֲנִיִּים (aniyyim, "afflicted/poor"), affirming God's preferential concern for the oppressed.

Elihu presents God's moral governance: the wicked's apparent prosperity is temporary, while God ensures justice for the vulnerable. This theological principle saturates Scripture—Psalm 37:35-36 describes the wicked's sudden disappearance; Luke 1:52-53 celebrates God casting down the mighty and exalting the humble. Elihu refutes Job's complaint that God ignores injustice, insisting divine judgment operates on God's timeline, not human impatience.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern societies operated on patron-client systems where the wealthy exploited the poor with impunity. Israel's law codes uniquely protected the vulnerable (Exodus 22:21-27, Deuteronomy 15:7-11), reflecting Yahweh's character as defender of the oppressed. Job's speeches questioned whether God actually enforces this moral order. Elihu reasserts orthodox covenant theology: God judges wickedness and vindicates the righteous, even when delayed judgment tests faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does trusting God's timing for judgment affect your response to injustice in the world?
  2. What does God's giving 'right to the poor' reveal about His priorities in human society?
  3. How can we participate in God's justice for the oppressed while waiting for His ultimate judgment?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לֹא1 of 6
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יְחַיֶּ֥ה2 of 6

“He preserveth not the life”

H2421

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

רָשָׁ֑ע3 of 6

“of the wicked”

H7563

morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person

וּמִשְׁפַּ֖ט4 of 6

“right”

H4941

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

עֲנִיִּ֣ים5 of 6

“to the poor”

H6041

depressed, in mind or circumstances

יִתֵּֽן׃6 of 6

“but giveth”

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 36:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Job 36:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 72:12-14Psalms 140:12Exodus 22:22-24Job 21:7-9Psalms 72:4Job 5:15

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