Barakel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Job, specifically in Job 32:2. He is identified as the father of Elihu, one of Job's friends who plays a significant role in the dialogues that occur in the latter part of the book. Barakel is described as a Buzite, which indicates his lineage from Buz, a nephew of Abraham (Genesis 22:21). This connection places Barakel and his family within the broader context of the Semitic tribes of the ancient Near East.

Biblical Context

In the narrative of Job, Barakel's son, Elihu, emerges as a younger voice among Job's friends, who have gathered to comfort him during his time of suffering. Elihu's speeches are recorded in Job 32-37, where he offers a different perspective on Job's plight compared to the other friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Elihu's intervention is marked by a passionate defense of God's justice and sovereignty, and he challenges both Job and the other friends on their understanding of God's ways.

Scriptural Reference

The primary reference to Barakel is found in Job 32:2: "Then Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became very angry. He was angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God." . This verse introduces Elihu and highlights his familial background, linking him to Barakel and the Buzite lineage.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The mention of Barakel as a Buzite provides insight into the cultural and tribal affiliations of the time. The Buzites were likely a clan or tribe related to the Arameans, given their connection to Buz, the son of Nahor, Abraham's brother. This background situates Barakel and Elihu within the broader tapestry of the ancient Near Eastern peoples, who shared common ancestry and cultural ties.

Theological Implications

Barakel's significance in the Book of Job is primarily through his son Elihu, whose speeches contribute to the theological discourse on suffering, divine justice, and human righteousness. Elihu's arguments emphasize the transcendence and inscrutability of God's ways, a theme that resonates with the overarching message of the Book of Job. While Barakel himself does not speak in the narrative, his mention underscores the importance of familial and tribal identities in the biblical text.

Conclusion

Barakel, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, is integral to understanding the context and background of Elihu's contributions to the dialogues in the Book of Job. His identification as a Buzite connects him to the broader Semitic heritage, enriching the cultural and theological dimensions of the account.1292. Barakel -- "El does bless," the father of one of Job's ...
... Barakel. 1293 . "El does bless," the father of one of Job's friends. Transliteration:
Barakel Phonetic Spelling: (baw-rak-ale') Short Definition: Barachel. ...
/hebrew/1292.htm - 6kBarakel (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Barakel (2 Occurrences). Job 32:2 Then was kindled
the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of ...
/b/barakel.htm - 6k

Barbarian (2 Occurrences)

/b/barbarian.htm - 10k

Barak (14 Occurrences)

/b/barak.htm - 14k

What was Elihu's message to Job? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus