Matthew Poole and continuators on Job 9:21

21. Though I were perfect, yet would I not know my soul: I would despise my life .

i. e. Though God should acquit me in Judgment, and pronounce me perfect or righteous, yet would I not know, i. e. regard or value (as that word is oft used) my soul, i. e. my life; as the soul frequently signifies, as Gen. 19. 17. Iob 2. 6. Iohn 10. 15, 17. and as it is explained in the following branch, where life is put for soul, and despising for not knowing: and so the same thing is repeated in differing words, and the latter clause explains the former, which was more dark and doubtful; according to the usage of sacred Scripture. So the sense is, Though God should give sentence for me, yet I should be so overwhelmed with the dread and terrour of the Divine Majesty, that I should be weary of my life. And therefore I abhor the thoughts of contending with my Maker, whereof you accuse me; and yet I have reason to be weary of my life, and to desire death. Or thus, If I say, I am perfect, as the very same Hebrew words are rendred, v. 20. i. e. If I should think my self perfect, yet I would not know, i. e. not acknowledge, my soul, I could not own nor plead before God the perfection and integrity of my soul, but would onely make supplication to my Judge, as he said, v. 16. and flee to his grace and mercy: I would abhor, or reject, or condemn my life. i. e. my conversation: So the sense is, I would not insist upon, nor trust to the integrity either of my soul and heart, or of my life, so as to justifie my self before the pure and piercing Eyes of the all-seeing God.