Job 32:4
Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.
Original Language Analysis
וֶֽאֱלִיה֗וּ
Now Elihu
H453
וֶֽאֱלִיה֗וּ
Now Elihu
Strong's:
H453
Word #:
1 of 10
elihu, the name of one of job's friends, and of three israelites
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בִּדְבָרִ֑ים
had spoken
H1697
בִּדְבָרִ֑ים
had spoken
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
5 of 10
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
6 of 10
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Historical Context
Elihu's name means 'He is my God,' likely identifying him as a worshiper of YHWH. His lineage (Buzite of the family of Ram, 32:2) connects him to Abraham's family (Genesis 22:21, Buz was Nahor's son). Unlike Job's three friends from distant regions, Elihu may have been younger kin or local. Ancient Near Eastern protocol strictly governed speaking order in assemblies, with age determining precedence. Elihu's speech (chapters 32-37) has been controversial—some scholars view it as interpolation, others as divinely inspired preparation for God's response.
Questions for Reflection
- How does modern culture's disregard for age and experience conflict with biblical wisdom that honors elders?
- When is it appropriate to speak after patiently listening, and when should we continue in silence?
- What does Elihu's respectful waiting teach about humility and propriety in theological discourse?
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Analysis & Commentary
Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he (וֶאֱלִיהוּא חִכָּה אֶת־אִיּוֹב בִּדְבָרִים כִּי זְקֵנִים הֵמָּה מִמֶּנּוּ לְיָמִים, ve'Elihu chikkah 'et-'Iyyov bidvarim ki zeqenim hemmah mimmennu leyamim)—the verb chakah means to wait, tarry, or delay. Zaqen means elder, with yamim (days, years) emphasizing advanced age. Elihu's patience demonstrates cultural respect for age and wisdom.
This verse introduces Elihu, the fourth counselor who has remained silent through 31 chapters while Job's three friends failed to convince him. The emphasis on waiting reveals ancient honor codes: younger men deferred to elders in public discourse. Elihu's restraint contrasts with modern culture's dismissal of age and authority. Yet verse 7 shows Elihu believed age should bring wisdom—his disappointment at the elders' failure prompts his speech. The New Testament similarly commands respect for elders (1 Timothy 5:1) while acknowledging that age alone doesn't guarantee wisdom (Job 32:9).