Guiding Questions: Job 37

This is part of the Tanakh Yomi Project.

  1. In this continuation of Elihu’s speech, what is he seeking to demonstrate (Job 37:1-13)?
  2. What does he mean by God’s “voice” (Job 37:4-5)? Compare Psalms 29.
  3. The beginning of Job 37:7, “a sign on every man’s hand” is rendered “he [God] shuts up every man indoors” by others. Which version is more appropriate to the context?
  4. In Job 37:9, “constellation” is rendered “scattering winds” by others. Which version is more appropriate?
  5. What are the two ways in which the forces of nature can be regarded (Job 37:13)?
  6. Can Elihu’s description be summarized by the modern term “act of God”?
  7. What is the gist of Elihu’s admonition to Job (Job 37:14-24)?
  8. What is the force of the rhetorical questions in Job 37:15-18?
  9. What is the nature of the south wind and its effect on human beings (Job 37:17)?
  10. What is Elihu’s summation of man’s relationship to God (Job 37:23-24)?
  11. Why does he say that God does not “torment”? Others (Scheindlin) suggest the rendering “He does not answer.” Which is more accurate?
  12. Are you satisfied with Elihu’s lengthy oration which ends here? Does it truly address Job’s dilemma?

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    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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Perek Yomi materials originally produced by the USCJ and Dr. Morton K. Siegel.
We are grateful to be able to share this material.

Author

  • favicon of exploring judaism logo

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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