Job 32:10

Context

Job 32:10 marks a pivotal moment in the Book of Job, initiating the speeches of Elihu. Up to this point, Job and his three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—have engaged in a lengthy and often circular debate concerning the nature of Job's suffering and God's justice. Elihu, the youngest of the four friends, has been present throughout these exchanges, listening patiently (or perhaps impatiently, as his outburst suggests). He has remained silent, respecting the seniority of the older men, but now feels compelled to speak. He believes the previous arguments have failed to provide a satisfactory explanation or to convince Job, and he is particularly frustrated by the older friends' inability to refute Job's claims effectively.

Key Themes

• The Assertiveness of Youth: Elihu, despite his younger age, boldly steps forward to offer his perspective where the elders have failed. This challenges the conventional wisdom of the time, which highly valued the counsel of the aged. His declaration, "Hearken to me; I also will shew mine opinion," signifies his belief that wisdom is not solely the domain of the old.
• A Claim to New Insight: Elihu implies that his "opinion" (or insight) will offer a fresh and necessary perspective that has been missing from the discourse. He believes he has a deeper understanding of God's ways and purposes, particularly regarding suffering, than what has been previously articulated. His subsequent speeches (Job 32-37) aim to correct the misunderstandings of both Job and his friends.
• The Importance of Listening: Elihu's long period of silence before speaking highlights the value of patient listening. He waited until all others had exhausted their arguments, observing their flaws and shortcomings, before presenting his own. This echoes the wisdom found in Proverbs 18:13: "He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him."

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "shew mine opinion" translates the Hebrew word דֵּעָה (de'ah), which can mean "knowledge," "understanding," or "insight." While "opinion" is a valid translation, Elihu's tone throughout his discourse suggests he is not merely offering a casual thought but rather a well-reasoned and divinely-inspired understanding he believes he possesses. He sees his contribution as a significant and necessary revelation, not just a personal viewpoint.

Practical Application

Job 32:10 encourages us to consider wisdom from unexpected sources and to value the process of thorough listening before speaking. It reminds us that:

• Wisdom is not exclusive to age or status: God can grant insight to anyone, regardless of their background or years. We should be open to hearing truth from all individuals.
• The power of patient observation: Elihu's example teaches the value of waiting, observing, and discerning before interjecting. Sometimes the most impactful contributions come after careful consideration of all perspectives.
• The need for fresh perspectives: When traditional arguments fail to resolve a complex issue, new, Spirit-led insights may be necessary to move forward, much like Elihu's attempt to refocus the debate on God's character and purposes (as seen in Job 34:10).