What is the meaning of Job 15:1? Then • The word “Then” signals a new turn in the debate after Job’s passionate response in chapter 14; it reminds us that each speech in the book builds on what has just been said (see Job 12:1; 13:1). • It also marks the start of the second cycle of speeches, showing that the friends feel compelled to answer yet again—despite Job’s plea for understanding (Job 13:13–19). Eliphaz • Eliphaz is the oldest and most courteous of Job’s friends, first to speak in the opening cycle (Job 4:1) and again here. • His authority seems rooted in personal experience and claimed revelation (Job 4:12–17), yet his approach grows sharper as Job maintains innocence (contrast his earlier gentler tone in Job 4–5 with the sterner rebuke in Job 15:2–6). • His persistence illustrates how human wisdom, even when sincere, can become rigid when it refuses to accommodate the possibility of unexplained suffering (compare Proverbs 18:13; 1 Corinthians 13:2). the Temanite • “Temanite” links Eliphaz to Teman, a region in Edom known for wise men (Jeremiah 49:7; Obadiah 8–9). • Scripture often pairs Edomite wisdom with pride that ultimately falters (Isaiah 29:14), preparing us to see the limits of Eliphaz’s counsel. • The label underscores that worldly reputation for insight does not guarantee spiritual accuracy, foreshadowing God’s eventual verdict against the friends (Job 42:7). replied • The verb points to an ongoing conversation; Eliphaz is not passive but actively challenging Job, convinced he must correct him (Job 15:17–35). • Every “reply” in Job reveals more than arguments; it uncovers the speakers’ theology of God and suffering (compare Bildad’s reply in Job 18:1 and Zophar’s in Job 20:1). • Eliphaz’s response warns us how easily compassion can give way to accusation when pain lingers (Galatians 6:2 vs. Job 16:2). summary Job 15:1 introduces Eliphaz’s second speech. The single verse reminds us of timing (“Then”), the speaker’s identity and assumed wisdom (“Eliphaz the Temanite”), and the conversational nature of the book (“replied”). Together they prepare readers to weigh human counsel against God’s ultimate revelation, urging us to listen carefully, test every claim, and keep compassion at the forefront when comforting the suffering. |
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