Elihu, a character in the Book of Job, emerges as a significant figure in the discourse on divine justice and human suffering. He is introduced in Job 32 as a young man who has been listening to the dialogues between Job and his three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Elihu's speeches, spanning Job 32-37, serve as a prelude to God's own response to Job and are pivotal in understanding the theological themes of justice and righteousness.

Background

Elihu, the son of Barakel the Buzite, is described as being from the family of Ram. His youth is emphasized in contrast to the older men he addresses, highlighting his initial hesitance to speak. However, Elihu's indignation at the failure of Job's friends to provide satisfactory answers and his perception of Job's self-righteousness compel him to speak.

Elihu's Perspective on Justice

Elihu's speeches are marked by a fervent defense of God's justice and sovereignty. He asserts that God is just and that His ways are beyond human comprehension. Elihu challenges Job's complaints about his suffering and his questioning of God's justice. He emphasizes that God is not accountable to human standards and that His actions are inherently righteous.

In Job 34:10-12 , Elihu declares, "Therefore listen to me, you men of understanding. Far be it from God to do wickedness, and from the Almighty to do wrong. For according to a man’s deeds He repays him; according to a man’s ways He brings consequences. Truly God does not act wickedly, and the Almighty does not pervert justice."

The Role of Suffering

Elihu introduces the idea that suffering can serve a purpose beyond punishment. He suggests that God uses suffering as a means of instruction and refinement. In Job 33:14-18 , Elihu explains that God speaks in various ways, including through dreams and pain, to turn people from wrongdoing and to preserve their souls from the pit.

Elihu also emphasizes that God is attentive to the cries of the afflicted and that He acts in accordance with His perfect wisdom. In Job 36:15-16 , he states, "He rescues the afflicted by their affliction and opens their ears in oppression. Indeed, He drew you from the jaws of distress to a spacious and broad place, to a table full of richness."

God's Transcendence and Power

Elihu's discourse culminates in a vivid portrayal of God's majesty and power, particularly through the natural world. He describes the wonders of creation as evidence of God's unmatched authority and wisdom. In Job 37:14-16 , Elihu urges Job to "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? Do you understand how the clouds float, those wonders of Him who is perfect in knowledge?"

Elihu's speeches serve to remind Job and the readers of the transcendence of God, who is not only just but also incomprehensibly wise and powerful. His words prepare the way for God's own response, which further underscores the themes of divine justice and the limitations of human understanding.