26 He punishes them for their wickedness where everyone can see them,
26 He strikes them for their wickedness in a place for all to see,
26 He punishes the wicked for their wickedness out in the open where everyone can see it,
26 He strikes them as wicked men In the open sight of others,
26 He strikes them down because they are wicked, doing it openly for all to see.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 34:26
Commentary on Job 34:16-30
(Read Job 34:16-30)
Elihu appeals directly to Job himself. Could he suppose that God was like those earthly princes, who hate right, who are unfit to rule, and prove the scourges of mankind? It is daring presumption to condemn God's proceedings, as Job had done by his discontents. Elihu suggests divers considerations to Job, to produce in him high thoughts of God, and so to persuade him to submit. Job had often wished to plead his cause before God. Elihu asks, To what purpose? All is well that God does, and will be found so. What can make those uneasy, whose souls dwell at ease in God? The smiles of all the world cannot quiet those on whom God frowns.