Job 32:18
For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֭י
H3588
כִּ֭י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 6
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מָלֵ֣תִי
For I am full
H4390
מָלֵ֣תִי
For I am full
Strong's:
H4390
Word #:
2 of 6
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
מִלִּ֑ים
of matter
H4405
מִלִּ֑ים
of matter
Strong's:
H4405
Word #:
3 of 6
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
הֱ֝צִיקַ֗תְנִי
me constraineth
H6693
הֱ֝צִיקַ֗תְנִי
me constraineth
Strong's:
H6693
Word #:
4 of 6
to compress, i.e., (figuratively) oppress, distress
Historical Context
Ancient prophets experienced similar compulsion (Jeremiah 20:9). Elihu claims this authority but God's silence about him suggests his speech lacks full divine sanction.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you distinguish between human compulsion to speak and divine calling?
- What does God's silence about Elihu teach about assumed spiritual authority?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Elihu explains: 'For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me.' This describes inner compulsion to speak - words demanding utterance. Yet divine inspiration doesn't equal divine authority - Elihu is not mentioned in God's final verdict.