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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Job 36:1–4.
Once more Elihu begs the patience of the auditory, and Job's particularly, for he has not said all that he has to say, but he will not detain them long. Stand about me a little (so some read it), Job 36:2. "Let me have your attendance, your attention, awhile longer, and I will speak but this once, as plainly and as much to the purpose as I can." To gain this he pleads, 1. That he had a good cause, and a noble and very fruitful subject: I have yet to speak on God's behalf. He spoke as an advocate for God, and therefore might justly expect the ear of the court. Some indeed pretend to speak on God's behalf who really speak for themselves; but those who sincerely appear in the cause of God, and speak in behalf of his honour, his truths, his ways, his people, shall be sure neither to want instructions (it shall be given them in that same hour what they shall speak) nor to lose their cause or their fee. Nor need they fear lest they should exhaust their subject. Those that have spoken ever so much may yet find more to be spoken on God's behalf. 2. That he had something to offer that was uncommon, and out of the road of vulgar observation: I will fetch my knowledge from afar (Job 36:3), that is, "we will have recourse to our first principles and the highest notions we can make use of to serve any purpose." It is worth while to go far for this knowledge of God, to dig for it, to travel for it; it will recompense our pains, and, though far-fetched, is not dear-bought. 3. That his design was undeniably honest; for all he aimed at was to ascribe righteousness to his Maker, to maintain and clear this truth, that God is righteous in all his ways. In speaking of God, and speaking for him, it is good to remember that he is our Maker, to call him so, and therefore to be ready to do him and the interests of his kingdom the best service we can. If he be our Maker, we have our all from him, must use our all for him, and be very jealous for his honour. That his management should be very just and fair (Job 36:4): "My words shall not be false, neither disagreeable to the thing itself nor to my own thoughts and apprehensions. It is truth that I am contending for, and that for truth's sake, with all possible sincerity and plainness." He will make use of plain and solid arguments and not the subtleties and niceties of the schools. "He who is perfect or upright in knowledge is now reasoning with thee; and therefore let him not only have a fair hearing, but let what he says be taken in good part, as meant well." The perfection of our knowledge in this world is to be honest and sincere in searching out truth, in applying it to ourselves, and in making use of what we know for the good of others.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
The author of the book, while distributing the chapters of the different speeches to us, connects the words that follow to the beginning. Since he had stirred the attention of the listeners by discussing the providence of God, he also asks their patience for the things that he is about to say.
Because holy teachers sometimes frequently repeat any things they state rather obscurely, in order to instil these hidden sayings into the hearts of their hearers, by the language of repetition; haughty men also wish to imitate this practice, and the things they have said they repeat in an insolent manner, not because they seek to insinuate the subjects into the hearts of their hearers, but because they wish to appear eloquent in their judgment.
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Summary
Job 36:2 captures Elihu's earnest and confident appeal for a patient hearing as he prepares to deliver his extensive discourse. Having carefully observed the prolonged and often misdirected exchanges between Job and his three friends, Elihu asserts his unique position and perceived divine mandate to articulate a comprehensive and accurate defense of God's character, justice, and wisdom, believing his forthcoming insights are essential to resolve the theological impasse and offer a more profound understanding of divine providence.
CONTEXT
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to enclose," "to crown," "to besiege," or "to wait (as restraining oneself)." In this context, the KJV's "suffer" translates the imperative form, conveying a sense of waiting or enduring patiently. Elihu is not asking for a brief interruption but demanding sustained, quiet, and focused attention from his audience, implying that his forthcoming words are of such profound importance that they warrant complete concentration. It is a command for them to "wait for me" or "be patient with me."
Meaning "small" or "little." This word qualifies the duration of the requested patience. Elihu is asking for a moment of quiet, focused attention, but the "little" here is ironic or rhetorical, as his ensuing discourse is anything but brief. It serves to politely preface what will be a lengthy and comprehensive theological exposition, suggesting a manageable initial request for attention before the full weight of his message unfolds.
Meaning "a word," "a discourse," or "a topic." This term emphasizes the content and nature of Elihu's forthcoming communication. He is not merely offering casual remarks but a structured, significant discourse—a "word" or "matter" that he believes is essential to the theological debate. His intention to "speak on God's behalf" elevates this "word" beyond human opinion, presenting it as divinely inspired truth.
Verse Breakdown
"Suffer me a little"
This opening imperative is Elihu's earnest and direct appeal to Job and the other interlocutors for their patient and undivided attention. Having observed the protracted and often contentious arguments, Elihu now asserts his turn to speak, demanding a respectful and quiet hearing for what he believes will be a decisive and enlightening discourse. It is a call for humility and receptiveness from his audience, indicating his conviction that his words hold unique value.
"and I will shew thee"
Elihu expresses strong confidence in his ability to reveal truth, provide clarity, and demonstrate the validity of his arguments. This phrase signifies his intention to explain, prove, or lay bare insights that he believes have eluded the others. It reflects his conviction that he possesses a superior understanding of God's ways and is capable of articulating it persuasively, promising a revelation of divine truth rather than mere human speculation.
"that [I have] yet to speak on God's behalf"
This concluding clause reveals the core motivation and self-perceived mandate behind Elihu's intervention. He claims a unique and crucial role as an advocate for God, aiming to vindicate divine justice and wisdom in the face of human questioning and misinterpretation. Unlike Job's friends, who were later rebuked for not speaking rightly about God (Job 42:7), Elihu positions himself as God's true spokesman, believing his words will accurately represent and defend the Almighty, offering a necessary correction to the flawed arguments presented thus far.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary techniques to establish Elihu's authority and set the tone for his speech. Direct Address is prominent, as Elihu directly addresses his audience ("Suffer me... I will shew thee"), creating an immediate and personal appeal that demands attention. The phrase "Suffer me a little" functions as a Rhetorical Appeal for attention, designed to secure a receptive and patient audience for his lengthy and profound discourse, while also subtly asserting his right to speak. Furthermore, Elihu's assertion to "speak on God's behalf" serves as a powerful form of Ethos, where he attempts to establish his credibility and authority by claiming a divine mandate. This claim elevates his forthcoming words above mere human opinion or debate, setting the stage for his subsequent arguments, which he presents as divinely inspired wisdom.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Elihu's self-appointed role as God's advocate in Job 36:2 introduces a profound theological theme: the immense responsibility of those who claim to speak for God. It highlights the critical need for humility, accuracy, and divine inspiration when attempting to articulate divine truth, especially concerning complex issues like suffering, justice, and providence. This verse underscores the biblical emphasis on God's absolute sovereignty and infinite wisdom, suggesting that finite human understanding is inherently limited and that true insight comes from a divine source. Elihu's desire to vindicate God's character in the face of human questioning resonates with the broader biblical narrative of God's unwavering righteousness, even when His ways are inscrutable to humanity.
Reflection and Application
Elihu's earnest plea in Job 36:2 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of patient and attentive listening, especially when engaging with profound spiritual truths or complex theological discussions. In an age characterized by quick judgments, soundbites, and fragmented attention spans, this verse calls us to cultivate humility, to truly "suffer" or wait for others to articulate their perspectives, and to approach God's revelation with reverence and openness. When we ourselves feel compelled to speak "on God's behalf," it challenges us to do so with utmost accuracy, integrity, and a deep reliance on His Spirit, rather than our own limited understanding or biases. It prompts us to consider whether our words truly vindicate God's character or merely reflect our own interpretations, urging us to prioritize His truth above all else and to be careful stewards of divine revelation, ensuring our communication honors Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does Elihu emphasize "Suffer me a little" so strongly?
Elihu emphasizes "Suffer me a little" (KJV) or "Bear with me a little" (ESV) to secure the undivided and patient attention of his audience, particularly Job and his three friends. He has patiently waited for them to conclude their lengthy and often circular arguments, and now he believes he possesses a unique, divinely-inspired perspective that requires a full and uninterrupted hearing. He is not asking for a brief pause but for sustained contemplation of his forthcoming, extensive discourse, which he believes will clarify misconceptions about God's justice and wisdom. He wants to ensure his words are truly heard and considered, unlike the previous exchanges which had devolved into accusations and defensiveness, setting a tone of solemn importance for his contribution.
What does Elihu mean by "speak on God's behalf"?
When Elihu states his intention to "speak on God's behalf," he is asserting his role as an advocate or defender of God's character and actions. He believes that Job and his friends have either misrepresented God or failed to fully grasp His justice and wisdom in the context of suffering. Unlike Job's friends, who were later rebuked by God for not speaking what was right about Him (Job 42:7), Elihu presents himself as a true spokesman for divine righteousness. His aim is to vindicate God's ways, particularly regarding the purpose of suffering and the exercise of divine sovereignty, offering a more nuanced theological perspective than had been presented thus far in the debate. He sees himself as correcting theological errors and upholding God's honor.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Elihu's attempt to "speak on God's behalf" is a human endeavor, albeit one he claims is divinely inspired, it ultimately foreshadows the perfect and ultimate Spokesman for God: Jesus Christ. Elihu sought to vindicate God's justice and wisdom through human words and theological discourse, but Christ perfectly revealed the Father, being the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature and the Word made flesh. Jesus did not merely speak on God's behalf; He was God in the flesh, embodying divine wisdom and righteousness. His life, atoning death, and resurrection fully vindicate God's justice, love, and sovereignty, providing the ultimate answer to the problem of suffering and sin, far beyond any human theological discourse. He is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, and through His finished work on the cross, God's character is perfectly revealed, His righteous demands are fully met, and a peace that surpasses all understanding is offered to humanity, as promised in Philippians 4:7. He is the truth, the way, and the life, the definitive revelation of God to humanity.