These two chapters are problematic; they appear to be composed of fragments gathered and placed together. Job begins by mocking his friends and rebukes them with plenty of classic wisdom, including advice, warnings, and reflections (26:2f). The grand description of creation (26:5-14) might actually be a continuation of Bildad’s hymn to the Creator (25:2-6). As it stands, it appears that Job interrupted Bildad to finish the hymn his friend started. With a solemn oath, Job reaffirms his innocence—saying it is God who does him wrong, but unlike his friends, Job will not serve God with lies and falsehood (27:4; cf. 13:7-9). The passage in 27:7-21 seems to echo what his friends have reproached him for. Some experts have speculated, based on these verses, that there may be a lost third speech by Zophar. If we try to find meaning as it currently stands, that might be it. According to ancient Israeli law, anyone found guilty of giving false testimony against an innocent person should face the same punishment that the innocent would have received. This is the punishment Job wishes upon his so-called friends (27:7), later detailing the punishments they have threatened him with (27:8-23).