Job 32:7

I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.

Study Bible

I thought
The phrase "I thought" indicates a personal reflection or assumption. In the Hebrew text, the word used here is "אָמַרְתִּי" (amarti), which means "I said" or "I thought." This reflects Elihu's internal reasoning and contemplation. It suggests a moment of introspection, where Elihu is considering the natural order of things. In a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of thoughtful reflection and the humility to question one's assumptions in light of divine wisdom.

that age should speak
The term "age" refers to the expectation that those who are older possess greater wisdom due to their life experiences. The Hebrew word "יָמִים" (yamim) is often translated as "days" or "years," symbolizing the accumulation of time. In ancient cultures, elders were revered for their knowledge and understanding. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that wisdom is often associated with age, as seen in Proverbs 16:31, "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life."

and many years
"Many years" further emphasizes the concept of accumulated experience. The repetition of the idea of age reinforces the expectation that longevity should correlate with wisdom. The Hebrew "שָׁנִים רַבּוֹת" (shanim rabbot) literally means "many years," suggesting a lifetime of learning. In a conservative Christian view, this serves as a reminder of the value of lifelong learning and the respect due to those who have walked the path of faith for many years.

should teach wisdom
The phrase "should teach wisdom" implies an expectation that experience naturally imparts understanding. The Hebrew word for "teach" is "יְחַכְּמוּ" (yechakkemu), which is related to "חָכְמָה" (chokhmah), meaning "wisdom." This reflects the biblical theme that true wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge but a deep, God-given insight into life. In the context of Job, this challenges the assumption that age alone guarantees wisdom, pointing instead to the necessity of divine revelation and righteousness as the true sources of wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elihu
A young man who speaks after Job's three friends have finished their discourse. He is introduced in Job 32 and is notable for his youthful perspective and boldness in addressing Job and his friends.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man of great faith who undergoes severe trials and questions the justice of his suffering.

3. Job's Three Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom but fail to provide satisfactory answers.

4. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

5. The Dialogue
The ongoing conversation between Job and his friends, which Elihu enters in Chapter 32, offering a new perspective.

Teaching Points

Respect for Elders and Their Wisdom
While age often brings experience and wisdom, it is not the sole source of truth. We should respect our elders but also discern the wisdom in their words.

The Role of Youth in Wisdom
Young people can possess wisdom and insight. Elihu's example encourages us to listen to the young and consider their perspectives.

The Source of True Wisdom
True wisdom comes from God, not merely from age or experience. We should seek divine wisdom through prayer and scripture.

The Importance of Humility in Dialogue
Elihu's approach reminds us to engage in discussions with humility, recognizing that wisdom can come from unexpected sources.

The Value of Fresh Perspectives
New voices can bring clarity and insight into ongoing discussions. We should remain open to fresh perspectives that align with biblical truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elihu's perspective as a young man challenge the traditional view of wisdom being tied to age?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are open to wisdom from both older and younger individuals in our community?

3. How does the concept of wisdom in Job 32:7 relate to the wisdom described in the Book of Proverbs?

4. What steps can we take to discern whether advice or wisdom is truly from God, regardless of the age of the person offering it?

5. How can we apply the lesson of humility in dialogue from Elihu's example to our own conversations and debates?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:31
This verse speaks to the honor of old age and the wisdom that should accompany it, similar to Elihu's expectation in Job 32:7.

1 Timothy 4:12
Paul advises Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his youth, paralleling Elihu's situation as a young man speaking wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 4:13
This verse contrasts the value of wisdom over age, reinforcing the idea that wisdom is not solely the domain of the elderly.