← Back to Job

Job 32

22 verses

TL;DR

Elihu, a younger man, enters after Job’s friends cease speaking, declaring his divine inspiration to defend Job and challenge their silence.

Summary

After the three friends stop answering Job, Elihu’s wrath ignites. He identifies himself as young and from the kin of Ram, and explains that his anger arose because the older men failed to answer Job and had accused him instead. Elihu claims he has a spirit within him and that divine inspiration gives him wisdom beyond human age. He criticizes the notion that only age guarantees understanding, noting that great men can be foolish. Despite the silence of the other men, he insists he will speak and offers his perspective. Elihu describes his spirit as a full, wine-like force that will burst if not released, illustrating his eagerness. He concludes by warning against flattering others or giving titles, fearing divine removal if he does so.

Outline
  1. Elihu's anger and self‑introduction
  2. Assertion of divine spirit and critique of the older friends
  3. Elihu’s resolve to speak and admonition about titles
Themes
divine inspiration vs human wisdomthe role of the younger voicehumility and pride
Keywords
wrathspiritinspirationwisdomageyoungJobElihuBuzite
People
JobElihuBarachelRam
Places
Buzite
Things
spiritinspiration of the Almightywinenew bottles
Key Verses
  • Job 32:1: Elihu’s anger is first revealed
  • Job 32:10: Elihu invites listeners to hear his perspective
  • Job 32:18: Elihu claims a spirit within him
  • Job 32:19: Metaphor of wine illustrates his eager spirit
Questions
  • Why does Elihu feel compelled to speak after the other friends stop?
  • How does Elihu justify his criticism of the older men?
  • What is the significance of the wine metaphor in describing his spirit?
  • What does Elihu mean by warning against giving flattering titles?
  • How does Elihu’s view of divine inspiration differ from the older friends’ perspectives?
Sentiment

mixed
Elihu’s tone mixes frustration, humility, and urgency.