The scene: Earth. God scolds Job’s three friends, demanding that they offer sacrifices and that Job pray on their behalf. That action complete, Job is restored, blessed again with possessions, family, and a long life to enjoy them.

An entire poetic story has played out since the last scene in the prologue (2:11–13). We now encounter the only scene of the epilogue. God’s words, particularly his affirmation about Job, to the three friends carve out a chasm between this scene and the poetic dialogue. If one feels compelled to harmonize, it is hard to imagine how to do so successfully. God asserts, “You have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has” (42:7–8). The Hebrew word nekonah underlies NIV’s “what is right,” a term that denotes “correct.” How does one mesh God’s praise th…