Job 32-33
Dear RTB’ers,
I can remember when I first read the book of Job that Elihu seemed like a breath of life to me. I was tired of Job’s first three friends and I was sympathetic toward Job. Now a younger man comes on the stage (after standing by listening respectfully to the three older men) and claims that he has something to say, even that the Spirit of God is within him. (v. 33:4) I was excited to listen to him!
Elihu’s pattern is to speak directly to Job, recounting his words (sometimes as a direct quote, other times as a paraphrase) and then offering his own replies, typically countering what Job has said. Here’s a first example, first Elihu quoting Job: You say, ‘I am pure, without transgression; I am clean, and there is no iniquity in me. Behold, He finds occasions against me …’ Then offering his reply: Behold, in this you are not right. I will answer you, for God is greater than man. Why do you contend against Him, saying, ‘He will answer none of man’s words’? (vv. 33: 9-10a, 12-13) Elihu then follows with ways in which God speaks – through dreams and with the humbling brought about with our suffering. In both of these (and more?) God knows what He is doing: Behold, God does all these things, twice, three times, with a man, to bring back his soul from the pit, that he may be lighted with the light of life. (vv. 33:29-30)
My Study Bible pointed out that Elihu even addressed Job by name (vv. 33:1, 31), something that the three friends had never done! More from Elihu, four more chapters!
Blessings!
See also: