New International VersionYet you ask him, ‘What profit is it to me, and what do I gain by not sinning?’
New Living TranslationFor you also ask, ‘What’s in it for me? What’s the use of living a righteous life?’
English Standard Versionthat you ask, ‘What advantage have I? How am I better off than if I had sinned?’
Berean Standard BibleFor you ask, ‘What does it profit me, and what benefit do I gain apart from sin?’
King James BibleFor thou saidst, What advantage will it be unto thee? and, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin?
New King James VersionFor you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You? What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?’
New American Standard Bible“For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You? What benefit will I have, more than if I had sinned?’
NASB 1995“For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You? What profit will I have, more than if I had sinned?’
NASB 1977“For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to You? What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?’
Legacy Standard BibleFor you say, ‘What use will it be to You? What profit will I have, more than if I had sinned?’
Amplified Bible“For you say, ‘What advantage have you [by living a righteous life]? What profit will I have, more [by being righteous] than if I had sinned?’
Christian Standard BibleFor you ask, “What does it profit you, and what benefit comes to me, if I do not sin? ”
Holman Christian Standard BibleFor you ask, “What does it profit You, and what benefit comes to me, if I do not sin?”
American Standard VersionThat thou sayest, What advantage will it be unto thee? And, What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?
Contemporary English VersionDon't you honestly believe it pays to obey him?
English Revised VersionThat thou sayest, What advantage will it be unto thee? and, What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?
GOD'S WORD® Translationwhen you ask, 'What benefit is it to you?' and, 'What would I gain by sinning?'
Good News Translationor to ask God, "How does my sin affect you? What have I gained by not sinning?"
International Standard VersionAfter all, you've asked what your benefit will be: 'What will I profit from refraining from sin?'
NET BibleBut you say, 'What will it profit you,' and, 'What do I gain by not sinning?'
New Heart English BibleThat you ask, 'What advantage will it be to you? What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?'
Webster's Bible TranslationFor thou saidst, What advantage will it be to thee? and, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin? Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleFor you ask, ‘What does it profit me, and what benefit do I gain apart from sin?’
World English Biblethat you ask, ‘What advantage will it be to you? What profit will I have, more than if I had sinned?’ Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionFor you say, What does it profit You? What do I profit from my sin?
Young's Literal Translation For thou sayest, 'What doth it profit Thee! What do I profit from my sin?'
Smith's Literal TranslationFor thou wilt say, What shall it profit to thee? what shall I profit from my sin? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleFor thou saidst : That which is right doth not please thee : or what will it profit thee if I sin?
Catholic Public Domain VersionFor you said, “Having done what is right does not please you,” and, “How will it benefit you, if I sin?”
New American BibleWhen you ask what it profits you, “What advantage do I have from not sinning?”
New Revised Standard VersionIf you ask, ‘What advantage have I? How am I better off than if I had sinned?’ Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleIf you have said it, what advantage will it be to you? And what should I gain if I should condemn you?
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedIf you spoke, what did it avail you for your soul? And what use that I would condemn you? OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917That thou inquirest: 'What advantage will it be unto Thee?' And: 'What profit shall I have, more than if I had sinned?'
Brenton Septuagint TranslationI will answer thee, and thy three friends.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Elihu Reminds Job of God's Justice… 2“Do you think this is just? You say, ‘I am more righteous than God.’ 3Foryou ask,‘Whatdoes it profitme,and whatbenefit do I gainapart from sin?’4I will reply to you and to your friends as well.…
Cross References Romans 3:5-8But if our unrighteousness highlights the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unjust to inflict His wrath on us? I am speaking in human terms. / Certainly not! In that case, how could God judge the world? / However, if my falsehood accentuates God’s truthfulness, to the increase of His glory, why am I still condemned as a sinner? ...
Psalm 73:13-14Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure; in innocence I have washed my hands. / For I am afflicted all day long and punished every morning.
Malachi 3:14-15You have said, ‘It is futile to serve God. What have we gained by keeping His requirements and walking mournfully before the LORD of Hosts? / So now we call the arrogant blessed. Not only do evildoers prosper, they even test God and escape.’”
Isaiah 58:3“Why have we fasted, and You have not seen? Why have we humbled ourselves, and You have not noticed?” “Behold, on the day of your fast, you do as you please, and you oppress all your workers.
Ezekiel 18:25-29Yet you say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ Hear now, O house of Israel: Is it My way that is unjust? Is it not your ways that are unjust? / If a righteous man turns from his righteousness and practices iniquity, he will die for this. He will die because of the iniquity he has committed. / But if a wicked man turns from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he will save his life. ...
Jeremiah 12:1-2Righteous are You, O LORD, when I plead before You. Yet about Your judgments I wish to contend with You: Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease? / You planted them, and they have taken root. They have grown and produced fruit. You are ever on their lips, but far from their hearts.
Habakkuk 1:13Your eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and You cannot tolerate wrongdoing. So why do You tolerate the faithless? Why are You silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?
Ecclesiastes 8:14There is a futility that is done on the earth: There are righteous men who get what the actions of the wicked deserve, and there are wicked men who get what the actions of the righteous deserve. I say that this too is futile.
Psalm 37:1-2Of David. Do not fret over those who do evil; do not envy those who do wrong. / For they wither quickly like grass and wilt like tender plants.
Psalm 49:12-13But a man, despite his wealth, cannot endure; he is like the beasts that perish. / This is the fate of the foolish and their followers who endorse their sayings. Selah
Matthew 5:45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
Luke 6:35But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
Romans 2:6-11God “will repay each one according to his deeds.” / To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. / But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger. ...
1 Peter 3:12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
2 Peter 3:9The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.
Treasury of Scripture For you said, What advantage will it be to you? and, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin? what advantage Job 9:21,22Though Iwere perfect,yet would I not know my soul: I would despise my life… Job 10:15 If I be wicked, woe unto me; andif I be righteous,yet will I not lift up my head.I am full of confusion; therefore see thou mine affliction; Job 21:15 Whatis the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we pray unto him? If I be cleansed from my sin. Jump to Previous AdvantageBetterCleansedGainInquirestProfitSinSinnedSinningWhatWrongJump to Next AdvantageBetterCleansedGainInquirestProfitSinSinnedSinningWhatWrongJob 35 1.Comparison is not to be made with God,6.because our good or evil cannot extend unto him9.Many cry in their afflictions, but are not heard for lack of faithFor you ask,This phrase introduces a rhetorical question posed by Elihu, one of Job's friends. Elihu is addressing Job's complaints and questions about the justice of God. In the context of the Book of Job, Job has been questioning the reasons for his suffering and the apparent lack of divine justice. Elihu's role is to offer a different perspective, suggesting that Job's questioning of God's justice is misguided. This reflects a common theme in wisdom literature, where questioning and seeking understanding are central, yet the ultimate wisdom is seen as trusting in God's sovereignty. ‘What does it profit me,
This part of the verse reflects a common human concern about the value of righteousness and obedience to God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, prosperity and well-being were often seen as signs of divine favor. Job's suffering challenges this notion, as he is a righteous man who experiences great loss. The question of profit or benefit from righteousness is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as inPsalm 73, where the psalmist struggles with the prosperity of the wicked. The underlying issue is the tension between temporal and eternal perspectives on reward and justice. and what benefit do I gain
Here, the focus is on the tangible benefits of living a righteous life. In the cultural context of the time, blessings were often understood in material terms—wealth, health, and family. Job's experience challenges this understanding, as he loses all these despite his righteousness. This phrase invites readers to consider the deeper, spiritual benefits of righteousness that may not be immediately visible. The New Testament further develops this idea, emphasizing spiritual rewards and eternal life as the ultimate benefits of faithfulness to God (e.g.,Matthew 6:19-21). apart from sin?’
This phrase highlights the contrast between living a life of righteousness and one of sin. Elihu suggests that Job's questioning implies that there is no benefit to righteousness if it does not lead to immediate, tangible rewards. Theologically, this touches on the concept of sin as separation from God and the ultimate source of human suffering. The question challenges readers to consider the intrinsic value of righteousness and the inherent consequences of sin. In the broader biblical narrative, this points to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who offers reconciliation with God and eternal life, transcending the temporal benefits or sufferings of this world. Persons / Places / Events 1. ElihuA young man who speaks to Job and his friends, offering a different perspective on Job's suffering. Elihu is portrayed as being passionate and somewhat indignant about the way Job has questioned God's justice. 2. JobThe central figure of the Book of Job, a man who experiences immense suffering and questions the reasons behind his trials. Job's integrity and faith are tested throughout the account. 3. GodThe ultimate authority and sovereign being whose justice and righteousness are central themes in the Book of Job. Elihu seeks to defend God's justice in his speeches. 4. Friends of JobEliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom, often suggesting that Job's suffering is a result of sin. 5. The HeavensOften referenced in the Book of Job as a symbol of God's majesty and the divine order, contrasting human understanding with divine wisdom. Teaching Points Understanding RighteousnessRighteousness is not about personal gain but about aligning with God's will and character. Our actions should reflect a desire to honor God rather than seeking what we can get from Him. The Nature of God’s JusticeGod's justice is not transactional. Elihu reminds us that God’s ways are higher than ours, and His justice is perfect, even when it is beyond our understanding. The Purpose of SufferingSuffering is not always a direct result of personal sin. It can be a means through which God refines our character and deepens our reliance on Him. Questioning GodWhile it is natural to question during times of suffering, we must approach God with humility, recognizing His sovereignty and wisdom. Living for God’s GloryOur lives should be lived for the glory of God, not for personal benefit. This perspective shifts our focus from self-centeredness to God-centeredness. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Job 35:3?
2.How does Job 35:3 challenge our understanding of God's justice and righteousness?
3.In what ways can we seek God's will despite feeling unrewarded?
4.How does Job 35:3 connect with Romans 8:28 about God's purpose?
5.What practical steps can we take to trust God's plan in adversity?
6.How can Job 35:3 encourage us to focus on God's eternal perspective?
7.What does Job 35:3 reveal about human righteousness and its impact on God?
8.How does Job 35:3 challenge the belief in divine justice?
9.Why does Elihu question the benefit of righteousness in Job 35:3?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 35?
11.Does everyone sin? (Romans 3:23 vs. Job 1:1)
12.Given Job 16:17, how does the text account for Job's apparent sinlessness despite broader biblical teachings that 'all have sinned' (Romans 3:23)?
13.If Job's firm claim of innocence in Job 27:5-6 is correct, how do we reconcile this with Biblical teachings on universal human sin (e.g., Romans 3:23)?
14.How can a just God allow the innocent to suffer alongside the wicked, as implied in Job 35:14-16?What Does Job 35:3 Mean For you ask• Elihu is quoting Job’s own words, reminding him of earlier complaints (Job 7:20–21; 10:1–3). • Scripture welcomes honest questions, yet also calls us to listen for God’s reply (Jeremiah 33:3;James 1:5). • By repeating Job’s question, Elihu positions himself to correct the assumption that God is indifferent.
What does it profit me• Job wonders whether righteousness brings any real advantage, echoingJob 21:15, “What would we gain by praying to Him?”. •Psalm 73:13 reveals a similar struggle: “Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure.” • New-Testament light shows true profit is found in Christ (Mark 8:36;1 Timothy 4:8). • The question exposes a heart wrestling with suffering—what value is there in obedience if pain continues?
and what benefit do I gain• “Benefit” speaks of personal reward. God does bless obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2;Psalm 19:11). • Job’s pain has blurred that truth, so Elihu will later affirm God’s justice and wisdom (Job 36:3-11). • Eternal perspective matters: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Immediate gains may be unseen, yetRomans 8:28 assures God is working for the good of those who love Him.
apart from sin?• Job implies righteousness and sin bring the same outcome—an error Elihu confronts (Job 34:9). • Scripture insists there is a clear divide: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life” (Romans 6:23). •Galatians 6:7-9 warns we reap what we sow; holiness is never wasted. • Elihu will argue that God’s character—not human assessment—defines what truly prospers (Job 35:5-8).
summaryJob 35:3 captures Job’s despairing question about the value of righteousness. Elihu repeats the question to expose its flaw: suffering does not nullify the profit of obedience. Scripture consistently teaches that living apart from sin brings lasting advantage—earthly peace of conscience, divine favor, and eternal reward—while sin yields death and loss. The verse invites believers to trust God’s justice, knowing He sees, records, and ultimately rewards every act of faithfulness. Verse 3. - For thou saidst What advantage will it be unto thee?i.e. What advantage will thy righteousness be unto thee? Job had certainly argued that his righteousness brought him no temporal advantage; but he had always a conviction that he would ultimately be the better for it. Elihu, however, does not acknowledge this; and, assuming that Job expects to receive no advantage at all from his integrity, argues that God is not bound to afford him any. And, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin? rather, And what profit shall f have, more than if I had sinned? (see the Revised Version, and compare the comments of Rosenmuller and Canon Cook).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Forכִּֽי־(kî-)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionyou ask,תֹ֭אמַר(ṯō·mar)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 559:To utter, say‘Whatמַה־(mah-)Interrogative
Strong's 4100:What?, what!, indefinitely whatdoes it profitיִּסְכָּן־(yis·kān-)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5532:To be familiar with, to minister to, be serviceable to, be customaryme,לָ֑ךְ(lāḵ)Preposition | second person feminine singular
Strong's Hebrewand whatמָֽה־(māh-)Interrogative
Strong's 4100:What?, what!, indefinitely whatbenefit do I gainאֹ֝עִ֗יל(’ō·‘îl)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3276:To confer or gain profit or benefitapart from sin?’מֵֽחַטָּאתִֽי׃(mê·ḥaṭ·ṭā·ṯî)Preposition-m | Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 2403:An offence, its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, expiation, an offender
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OT Poetry: Job 35:3 That you ask 'What advantage will it (Jb) |
