To use, guide, or influence with bias, by operating something or to falsify truth in an effort to control. In (Job 31:21) we are taught there are some who will lift up their hand to oppress violently against the fatherless, if a cause came before the judges, to use their influence in an unjust manner. In the larger context it explains the sense of injustice Job felt at his suffering and humiliation, making a final defense before his friends who accused him of special sin deserving of special judgment. To manipulate the subject under oath, that he will list the evil things he has not done with the hope of being vindicated, thereby creating a negative confession. It is an oath of clearance that is well known in ancient jurisprudence to be repudiated by calling down a curse on oneself as if one had committed evil.
Clearly Job was a blameless and upright man; he was the picture of one perfect and upright, who feared God, and shunned evil. In (Job 31:22) he calls down on himself a negative confession and suitable punishment if he is guilty of committing crimes against God.
Those who manipulate others with lies, attack their mental and emotional sides to get what they want. They are manipulators of truth, seeking to create an imbalance in you, while taking advantage to gain power, control, benefit, and/or privilege. A dark triad of personality traits, they are deceitful and narcissistic emotional manipulators, exploiters, or controllers. Using intelligent, often dishonest methods, and interpersonal manipulation to win power or control over people, and are indifferent to morality.
Job 31:21
New International Version
21 “if I have raised my hand against the fatherless, knowing that I had influence in court,”
Job 31:21
King James Version
21 “If I have lifted up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate:”
Job 31:21
Living Bible
21 “or if I have taken advantage of an orphan because I thought I could get away with it—“
Job 31:22
New International Version
22 “then let my arm fall from the shoulder, let it be broken off at the joint.”
Job 31:22
King James Version
22 “Then let mine arm fall from my shoulder blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone.”
Job 31:22
Living Bible
22 “if I have done any of these things, then let my arm be torn from its socket! Let my shoulder be wrenched out of place!”