31:1–40 The most important issue in Job’s mind in ch. 31 is the false accusation that he was a man of exceptional wickedness, suffering no more than what he deserved. This chapter is based on an important theme in the legal procedure of Job’s day. He appeals to God with an oath in the divine name and with a call for divine sanctions if he is lying. Although this is a protestation of innocence, it is not the self-righteousness of the Pharisee in Luke 18:11, 12. Like the psalmist, Job is the victim of false accusation, so vindication has become a passion with him.