But if they do not obey, then they perish by the sword and die without knowledge.
Elihu, being to speak on God's behalf, and particularly to ascribe righteousness to his Maker, here shows that the disposals of divine Providence are all, not only according to the eternal counsels of his will, but according to the eternal rules of equity. God acts as a righteous governor, for, I.
Commenting on Job 36:5-14
But if they obey not,.... Who seem to be righteous and are not; and when afflicted are not submissive to the will of God; attend not to the voice of his providence; receive no instruction thereby; but kick against the pricks, and rebel, against God; complain of him, and murmur at his dealings with them: they shall perish by the sword; or they shall pass...
(Job 33:18). without knowledge--that is, on account of their foolishness (Job 4:20-21).