Job 32: Elihu Shares Wisdom with Job

Introduction: Job 32, an intriguing chapter of the Bible, opens a new perspective in the discourses about Job’s suffering. Elihu, a younger man who has been quietly listening to Job’s friends, finally breaks his silence. The chapter explores Elihu’s perspective and insights about God’s wisdom and justice, adding a fresh viewpoint to the ongoing discussion.

I. Elihu’s Anger towards Job’s friends and Job himself (Job 32:1-6)

Job 32 begins with the silence of Job’s friends, who have no answer to Job’s last speech. Elihu, a bystander, feels provoked by Job’s self-righteousness and the friends’ failure to provide an adequate reply. The scripture records Elihu’s anger against Job for justifying himself rather than God (Job 32:2). This sentiment is mirrored in Proverbs 17:15, which warns against justifying the wicked and condemning the just. Elihu is also angry with Job’s friends (Job 32:3) because, despite their age and supposed wisdom, they failed to find a solution (Ecclesiastes 7:10). Elihu’s anger shows his zeal for God’s righteousness, reflecting Numbers 25:11-13, where Phinehas’s zealous act is praised.

II. Elihu’s Justification for Speaking (Job 32:6-22)

Elihu steps forward to speak, confessing his youth and inexperience but stressing that true wisdom comes from God, not age (Job 32:6-9). The sentiment echoes Job 12:12-13, affirming wisdom and understanding come from God. He further underlines his point by arguing that the human spirit, the breath of the Almighty, is what imparts understanding (Job 32:8), mirroring Genesis 2:7 where God breathed life into man. Elihu then challenges Job’s friends to listen to his arguments (Job 32:10-14). He criticizes them for not refuting Job effectively, emphasizing that wisdom can also come from unexpected sources (1 Corinthians 1:27). Elihu’s speech is driven by a spirit within him (Job 32:18-20), showing the inspiration of God, reflecting Numbers 11:25-26. He concludes by promising not to show partiality or flattery, referencing Proverbs 28:21 and Job 13:10.

Conclusion: Job 32 provides a nuanced understanding of God’s justice and wisdom. Elihu’s intervention serves as a reminder that wisdom does not solely reside with the old or experienced, but is a gift from God. His righteous anger and insistence on giving God primacy over human justification show a deep understanding of divine justice. His promise to speak without prejudice or flattery underlines the integrity of his words. Job 32, thus, adds a crucial perspective in understanding God’s ways, reminding us that His wisdom transcends human understanding and age. As believers, Elihu’s actions underscore the importance of maintaining a God-centered perspective and approaching His wisdom with humility, regardless of our age or experience.