Job 32:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This passage illustrates that Elihu, before feeling a strong urge to express himself, exercised self-control. He was patient and on the verge of speaking, highlighting the necessity of great endurance. The ability to hold back one's words is a hallmark of true wisdom. Elihu demonstrates that, throughout his suffering, he had been longing to speak, yet he restrained himself, requiring immense patience. This self-restraint is a profound testament to wisdom: the capacity to control one’s speech. His endurance came from a deep and zealous love for God.

After detailing the reasons that previously prevented him from expressing himself and his motivations for engaging in discussion, Elius assures Job that he will speak candidly and without fear. He then directs his attention to Job, urging him to listen closely and to counter any inaccuracies he perceives, fully acknowledging the limitations of humankind. Drawing from Job's own statements, Elius recognizes Job's plight as one of unmerited suffering from God. He perceives Job as erroneously challenging God, who sovereignly governs the affairs of the world without needing to justify His decisions to anyone. God addresses human frailty in such a manner that one cannot justly claim His judgments are unfair.