O Job
By addressing Job by name, Elihu personalizes his message, showing respect and a direct engagement with Job's plight. The use of Job's name here is significant; it underscores the personal nature of the discourse and Elihu's intention to speak directly to Job's situation. In the Hebrew tradition, names carry deep significance, often reflecting character or destiny. Job's name, which can mean "persecuted" or "hated," is a poignant reminder of his suffering and the trials he faces.

hear my speech
The call to "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) is more than just a request to listen; it is an appeal for understanding and consideration. In Hebrew culture, hearing is closely linked to obedience and response. Elihu is not merely asking Job to listen passively but to engage with and reflect on his words. The term "speech" (מִלָּה, millah) suggests a carefully considered and articulate expression, indicating that Elihu has thought deeply about what he is about to say.

and listen to all my words
The repetition of the call to "listen" (הַאֲזִין, ha'azin) reinforces the importance of Elihu's message. The Hebrew root here implies a deeper, more attentive listening, akin to heeding or giving ear. Elihu is urging Job to pay close attention to the entirety of his discourse, suggesting that every word carries weight and significance. The phrase "all my words" emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of Elihu's argument, indicating that his message is comprehensive and should be considered in its entirety.

(1) Wherefore, Job, I pray thee.--He begins by professing his sincerity and integrity; and with reference to Job's expressed desire to find an umpire (Job 9:33), and one who would maintain his right with God (Job 16:21), he declares that he is ready to do so, and that he is, like Job, made out of the clay, and consequently disposed to deal favourably with him.

(1) to Job's self-assertion (vers. 8, 9); and

(2) to his charges against God (vers. 10-13),

which (he says) are unjust. He next brings forward his theory of God-inflicted sufferings being, in the main, chastisements proceeding from a loving purpose, intended to purify, to strengthen, to purge out faults, to "save from the pit," to improve, and to enlighten (vers. 14-24). He points out in what spirit chastisement should be received (vers. 25-30); and concludes with a recommendation to Job to remain silent, and hear him out, while at the same time he expresses a willingness to listen to what Job has to say, if he has objections to offer (vers. 31-33). Verse 1. - Wherefore, Job, I pray thee, hear my speeches; rather, howbeit, Job, I pray thee, hear my speech (see the Revised Version); i.e. "However you regard me personally, hear what I have to say." And hearken to all my words. Give me your full attention; do not suffer aught that I say to escape you. Elihu has a deep conviction of the importance of what he is about to utter (comp. Job 32:8, 10, 17).

Parallel Commentaries ...