He leads priests away stripped: verses 17a and 19a are the same, except that “counselors” is replaced by priests. This is the only mention of priests in the Book of Job. Most translators will have a term for priests from the translation of the New Testament. If a descriptive term must be used here, we may say, for example, “the one who makes sacrifices,” “the one who leads the prayers,” or “the one who prays to God for the people.” For comments on stripped see verse 17.

And overthrows the mighty: God overthrows those whose positions seem permanent. Overthrows is used here as in Psalm 21.12, “For you will put them to flight.” It refers to getting rid of, bringing down, taking power from the rulers. Mighty translates an adjective meaning “perpetual, unceasing.” Here it refers to authorities whose power is continuous, not subject to change. These are rulers who have great power and continuity. The line may also be expressed “He brings to an end the established authorities” or “He takes away power from those who rule the people.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, Wiliam. A Handbook on Job. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1992. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .