Job 32:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Some individuals argue that these two verses are not attributed to Elihu but rather to the author who inserted a reflection on the silence of the friends within the discourse. However, I contend that these verses do indeed belong to Elihu; they simply employ a rhetorical device known as an apostrophe, where he addresses the friends as if engaged in dialogue with another party. Given that the friends were silenced by Job's profound statements and their previous utterances appeared ineffective and devoid of value, it is natural for him to speak. Consequently, he adds, “and I endured and did not speak,” anticipating potential objections from them. Once they halted their replies and found themselves at a loss in response to Job's words, he commenced his own discourse.

Job's companions, as noted here, felt a sense of fear, for it is often the case that those who are zealous guardians of the faith, even without a rigid structure in their discourse, can leave their opponents speechless through the power of their eloquence. In addition, I noticed that as I awaited their response, they did not speak; they paused and ceased to provide further answers. Typically, the conclusion of the discourse from wise individuals results in their adversaries falling silent—not because they seek accolades for themselves, but to challenge erroneous teachings. Following the commentary on Job’s friends, it is remarked that they were afraid and no longer replied; they stopped speaking entirely.

After expressing his reasons for remaining silent and his intentions for engaging in dialogue, Elius vows to speak sincerely and without fear. He then addresses Job, urging him to listen carefully and challenge any of his points he finds disputable, acknowledging the limitations inherent to humanity. Based on Job's own admission of being unjustly afflicted by God, Elius perceives Job as being at odds with the divine, who governs the world without accountability to anyone. God administers justice in a manner that leaves no room for complaints about His judgments. Recognizing humanity's tendency to falter, He issues warnings through dreams or illness, subsequently extending mercy and bestowing blessings upon those who repent. Elius challenges Job to respond, but when met with silence, he again seeks Job's attention.