Bible Commentaries

Introduction

Job 32-37. Speech of Elihu.— Reasons have already been given in the Introduction for regarding this as a later addition to the poem. The point of view of Elihu is very much that of Eliphaz, viz. that suffering is disciplinary. If it is rightly accepted, and its lesson learned, God will graciously restore the sufferer. An interesting point in the theology of Elihu is the idea of the intercession of angels ( Job 33:23 ff.).

Verses 1-5

Job 32:1-5 . Prose introduction, explaining the intervention of Elihu. Observe that whereas Job and his friends are introduced without genealogy it is not so with Elihu. His name means “ He is my God,” that of Barachel his father “ God blesses.” Buz is a Nahorite clan, according to Genesis 22:21. Uz and Buz were brothers.

Verses 6-14

Job 32:6-14 . Elihu had remained silent because of his youth. However wisdom is not a matter of age, but of Divine inspiration. Where the friends have failed, Elihu will succeed: there is no need to call in God.

Job 32:13 “ is a direct polemic against the poet, a strong assertion that the Divine speeches which follow had been better omitted” (Peake).

Verses 15-22

Job 32:15-22 . If the friends have nothing to say, that is no reason for Elihu’ s silence. He is full of words, and must give them vent. The fear of God will prevent his showing partiality.