Elihu inquires whether it is Job's righteousness which finds expression in his question as to the profitableness of religion. Let him look to the heavens and see how far God is above him. Man's sin or righteousness in no way injures or profits God, but only other men. In Job 35:2 instead of Or sayest thou, my righteousness is more than God's, translate And callest it my righteousness before God. With Job 35:5-7; cf. Job 22:2-3; cf. Job 22:12.
Job 35:1-8
1 Elihu spake moreover, and said,
2 Thinkest thou this to be right, that thou saidst, My righteousness is more than God's?
3 For thou saidst, What advantage will it be unto thee? and, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin?
4 I will answera thee, and thy companions with thee.
5 Look unto the heavens, and see; and behold the clouds which are higher than thou.
6 If thou sinnest, what doest thou against him? or if thy transgressions be multiplied, what doest thou unto him?
7 If thou be righteous, what givest thou him? or what receiveth he of thine hand?
8 Thy wickedness may hurt a man as thou art; and thy righteousness may profit the son of man.