11:1 The last of Job’s three friends makes his debut with rather breathtaking harshness. Zophar rejects Job’s claim to righteousness and even undermines his integrity by classifying Job’s claims as idle mockery which cannot go uncontested. The key to Zophar’s viewpoint is found in 11:6, where he clearly states that Job’s suffering is the result of his sin and is even less severe than deserved. While Zophar does hold out hope for Job, it has little to do with a confrontation with God. Such a collision would in Zophar’s mind lead only to Job’s condemnation. Job’s hope, such as it is, can be found only in confession, repentance, and appeal to divine mercy. Submission would lead to restoration, security, and renewed confidence. But, before he offers even that hope, Zophar has much to say in op…