Job 32:6

So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared: "I am young in years, while you are old; that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.

Study Bible

So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared
Elihu, whose name means "He is my God" in Hebrew, is introduced here as the son of Barachel, which means "God blesses." The mention of his lineage as a Buzite connects him to the family of Buz, a nephew of Abraham, suggesting a heritage of wisdom and reverence for God. This introduction sets the stage for Elihu's role as a young but divinely inspired voice in the discourse. His declaration marks a shift in the narrative, as he steps forward with a boldness that belies his youth, indicating a divine prompting rather than mere human confidence.

I am young in years
The Hebrew word for "young" here is "צָעִיר" (tsa'ir), which emphasizes not just youth but also inexperience. Elihu's acknowledgment of his youth is a sign of humility and respect for the elders present. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, age was synonymous with wisdom, and the young were expected to listen and learn. Elihu's admission of his youth sets a tone of humility and respect, yet it also foreshadows the wisdom that God can impart regardless of age.

while you are old
The term "old" in Hebrew is "יָשִׁישׁ" (yashish), which conveys not only age but also the expectation of accumulated wisdom and experience. Elihu's reference to the age of his listeners is a nod to the cultural norm that values the insights of the elderly. This acknowledgment serves to honor the traditional wisdom of Job and his friends, even as Elihu prepares to offer a fresh perspective. It highlights the tension between traditional wisdom and new revelation, a theme that resonates throughout the book of Job.

therefore I was timid and afraid
The words "timid" and "afraid" reflect Elihu's initial hesitation, rooted in the Hebrew words "זָחַל" (zachal) and "פָּחַד" (pachad), respectively. These terms convey a deep respect and reverence for the elders, as well as a fear of overstepping cultural boundaries. Elihu's fear is not of man, but of speaking out of turn or without divine sanction. This fear underscores the gravity of speaking on matters of divine justice and human suffering, themes central to the book of Job.

to declare my opinion to you
The phrase "declare my opinion" uses the Hebrew "דֵּעָה" (dea), meaning knowledge or opinion. Elihu's use of this term suggests that he is not merely offering a personal viewpoint but is sharing insights he believes are divinely inspired. His declaration is not an act of arrogance but of obedience to a higher calling. Elihu's willingness to speak despite his initial fear reflects a conviction that truth must be spoken, even when it challenges established norms. This sets the stage for his subsequent speeches, which aim to bring clarity and divine perspective to the suffering of Job.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elihu
A young man who enters the dialogue in the Book of Job. He is the son of Barachel the Buzite and is characterized by his youth and boldness in speaking.

2. Barachel
The father of Elihu, identified as a Buzite, which indicates his lineage and possibly his geographical origin.

3. The Buzite
Refers to the descendants of Buz, who was a nephew of Abraham. This indicates a connection to the broader account of the Hebrew people.

4. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, known for his suffering and the dialogues with his friends about the nature of God and justice.

5. Job's Friends
The older men who have been debating with Job about his suffering and the reasons behind it. Elihu addresses them as well.

Teaching Points

Respect for Elders and Wisdom
Elihu shows respect for the older men by initially hesitating to speak. This teaches the importance of valuing the wisdom that comes with age.

Courage to Speak Truth
Despite his youth, Elihu eventually speaks up. This encourages believers to have the courage to share their insights and convictions, even when they feel inexperienced.

God Uses All Ages
Elihu's role in the account demonstrates that God can use people of any age to convey His truth and wisdom.

Humility in Dialogue
Elihu's approach is initially humble, reminding us to engage in discussions with humility and respect for others' perspectives.

The Role of Youth in the Church
Elihu's example highlights the valuable contributions that young people can make within the church community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elihu's approach to speaking with Job and his friends reflect the biblical principle of respecting elders, and how can we apply this in our interactions today?

2. In what ways does Elihu's eventual decision to speak up encourage us to share our perspectives, even when we feel inexperienced or intimidated?

3. How can we balance humility and boldness in our conversations about faith, as demonstrated by Elihu in this passage?

4. What lessons can we learn from Elihu about the role of youth in contributing to discussions and decision-making within the church?

5. How do other biblical figures, like Jeremiah, who felt limited by their youth, inspire us to overcome our own perceived limitations in serving God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Timothy 4:12
This verse encourages young believers not to let others look down on them because of their youth, similar to Elihu's situation where he overcomes his initial hesitation to speak.

Proverbs 20:29
This verse contrasts the glory of young men with the splendor of old men, reflecting the dynamic between Elihu and Job's older friends.

Jeremiah 1:6-7
Jeremiah expresses his youth as a limitation, but God reassures him, paralleling Elihu's initial reluctance and eventual boldness.