Introduction:
Elihu, a relatively lesser-known figure in the Book of Job, emerges as a pivotal character in the discourse on divine justice. His speeches are found in Job 32-37, where he addresses Job and his three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Elihu's intervention is significant as it precedes the direct response of God to Job, offering a unique perspective on suffering, righteousness, and the justice of God.

Background:
Elihu, the son of Barakel the Buzite, is introduced in Job 32:2. He is described as being from the family of Ram, indicating his lineage and possibly his wisdom. Unlike Job's three friends, Elihu is younger, which initially causes him to hold back from speaking. However, his anger is kindled against Job for justifying himself rather than God, and against the three friends for failing to provide a satisfactory answer to Job's plight.

Elihu's Speeches:
Elihu's discourse is divided into several speeches, each addressing different aspects of Job's situation and the nature of God.

1. Elihu's Anger and Introduction (Job 32):
Elihu begins by expressing his frustration with both Job and his friends. He emphasizes that wisdom is not necessarily a function of age but is given by the Spirit of God. Elihu asserts his right to speak, driven by the conviction that he has something valuable to contribute to the discussion.

2. God's Justice and Communication (Job 33):
Elihu challenges Job's claim of innocence and his questioning of God's justice. He argues that God is greater than man and communicates in various ways, including dreams and suffering, to turn people from wrongdoing and to preserve their souls. Elihu insists that God is just and that suffering can be a means of instruction and redemption.

> "For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices. In a dream, in a vision in the night, when deep sleep falls upon men as they slumber on their beds, He opens their ears and terrifies them with warnings, to turn a man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride" (Job 33:14-17).

3. Defense of God's Righteousness (Job 34):
Elihu defends God's righteousness, asserting that God cannot do wrong. He emphasizes that God repays individuals according to their deeds and that His justice is impartial. Elihu rebukes Job for questioning God's justice and suggests that Job's words are those of a rebellious man.

> "Far be it from God to do wickedness, and from the Almighty to act unjustly. For according to a man’s deeds He repays him; according to a man’s ways He brings consequences" (Job 34:10-11).

4. God's Sovereignty and Wisdom (Job 35-37):
Elihu continues by highlighting God's transcendence and the futility of human righteousness in affecting God. He points out that human actions do not benefit God but affect other people. Elihu extols God's majesty and power, describing His control over nature and His inscrutable wisdom.

> "Listen to this, O Job; stand still and consider the wonders of God. Do you know how God dispatches the clouds or makes the lightning flash?" (Job 37:14-15).

Theological Implications:
Elihu's speeches serve to prepare the way for God's own response to Job. He emphasizes the themes of divine justice, sovereignty, and the inscrutability of God's ways. Elihu's perspective is that suffering can be a tool for instruction and that God's justice is ultimately beyond human comprehension. His assertion is that God is always just, even when His ways are not immediately apparent to human understanding.

Significance:
Elihu's role in the Book of Job is crucial as it bridges the human discourse and the divine revelation that follows. His speeches challenge both Job and his friends to reconsider their understanding of God's justice and the purpose of suffering. Elihu's emphasis on God's justice and sovereignty provides a theological framework that underscores the entire narrative of Job, highlighting the complexity and depth of divine-human interactions.