Job 42:3

Who is he? This question repeats in almost identical words the query of God in chapter 38:2. Whether that query referred to Elihu or to Job cannot be definitely established (see on chapter 38:2). Job now applies it to himself. His first acknowledgment is of the limits of his knowledge. His conclusions were based on ignorance; hence, though he may have been sincere, he was wrong.

Which I knew not. How inadequate partial knowledge appears when the light of greater truth shines upon it! When Job made his complaints, his reasoning seemed to him unassailable. He felt that his attitude was amply justified. But when he came to understand God more fully, his former reasoning lost its cogency. Human reason has so often proved itself fallible. Ideas that seem like great wisdom today, may turn out to be sheer nonsense tomorrow.

Job’s willingness to admit his ignorance is commendable. He does not try to excuse himself or to defend his position. He is as honest in confession as he was in argument. This trait is part of the integrity with which the record credits Job from the start (chapter 1:1).