Job 32:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 32:21
21 Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
Chapter Context
Job 32 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, faith, righteousness. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 32:21
21 Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
Analysis
Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person (אַל־נָא אֶשָּׂא פְנֵי־אִישׁ, al-na esa pene-ish)—The idiom "lift up face" (nasa panim) means to show partiality or favoritism (Leviticus 19:15, Deuteronomy 1:17). Elihu declares impartiality—he won't flatter Job because of status. The phrase neither let me give flattering titles unto man (וְאֶל־אָדָם לֹא אֲכַנֶּה) uses kanah (כָּנָה), meaning "to surname, give honorific titles." Elihu refuses obsequious speech. This echoes James 2:1-9's condemnation of partiality: "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ... with respect of persons."
Elihu's claim to impartiality is admirable but potentially arrogant—declaring one's own objectivity often betrays subjectivity. True impartiality requires divine perspective (1 Samuel 16:7, "man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart"). The gospel reveals ultimate impartiality: God shows no favoritism (Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6), judging each according to works, but offering grace equally to all who believe. Christ's cross levels all distinctions—no room for partiality or flattery.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures highly valued honor, deference to superiors, and elaborate titles. Court officials used extensive honorifics. Prophets challenged this by speaking God's word regardless of human power (Jeremiah 1:7-8, Ezekiel 2:6). Elihu's refusal of flattery aligns with prophetic tradition—speaking truth over maintaining social harmony. His youth makes this bolder, as cultural norms expected deference to elders.
Reflection
- How can we speak truth while maintaining appropriate respect for authority?
- What is the difference between godly respect and sinful flattery?
- How does the gospel's leveling effect (Galatians 3:28) challenge cultural hierarchies?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 13:8, 13:10, 34:19, Leviticus 19:15, Deuteronomy 1:17, 16:19