Job 32:7

I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.

Study Bible

I thought that age should speak
This phrase reflects a common belief in ancient cultures, including the Hebrew tradition, that wisdom and understanding are often associated with age and experience. In the context of the Book of Job, this sentiment is expressed by Elihu, a younger man who has been listening to the dialogue between Job and his three friends. The expectation is that those who have lived longer have accumulated knowledge and insight. This idea is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as Proverbs 16:31, which states, "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." However, Elihu's speech challenges this notion by suggesting that true wisdom comes from God, not merely from age.

and many years should teach wisdom
The belief that wisdom is a product of many years is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East. Elders were often revered as leaders and decision-makers within the community. This is evident in the structure of Israelite society, where elders held positions of authority and were consulted for their counsel, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:7, "Remember the days of old; consider the years of many generations; ask your father, and he will show you, your elders, and they will tell you." However, Elihu's argument introduces a theological perspective that wisdom is ultimately a gift from God, as seen in James 1:5, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." This challenges the assumption that wisdom is solely a function of age, emphasizing instead the role of divine revelation and the Holy Spirit in imparting true understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elihu
A young man who speaks after Job's three friends have finished their discourse. He is introduced in Job 32 and is notable for his youthful perspective and boldness in addressing Job and his friends.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man of great faith who undergoes severe trials and questions the justice of his suffering.

3. Job's Three Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom but fail to provide satisfactory answers.

4. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

5. The Dialogue
The ongoing conversation between Job and his friends, which Elihu enters in Chapter 32, offering a new perspective.

Teaching Points

Respect for Elders and Their Wisdom
While age often brings experience and wisdom, it is not the sole source of truth. We should respect our elders but also discern the wisdom in their words.

The Role of Youth in Wisdom
Young people can possess wisdom and insight. Elihu's example encourages us to listen to the young and consider their perspectives.

The Source of True Wisdom
True wisdom comes from God, not merely from age or experience. We should seek divine wisdom through prayer and scripture.

The Importance of Humility in Dialogue
Elihu's approach reminds us to engage in discussions with humility, recognizing that wisdom can come from unexpected sources.

The Value of Fresh Perspectives
New voices can bring clarity and insight into ongoing discussions. We should remain open to fresh perspectives that align with biblical truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elihu's perspective as a young man challenge the traditional view of wisdom being tied to age?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are open to wisdom from both older and younger individuals in our community?

3. How does the concept of wisdom in Job 32:7 relate to the wisdom described in the Book of Proverbs?

4. What steps can we take to discern whether advice or wisdom is truly from God, regardless of the age of the person offering it?

5. How can we apply the lesson of humility in dialogue from Elihu's example to our own conversations and debates?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:31
This verse speaks to the honor of old age and the wisdom that should accompany it, similar to Elihu's expectation in Job 32:7.

1 Timothy 4:12
Paul advises Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his youth, paralleling Elihu's situation as a young man speaking wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 4:13
This verse contrasts the value of wisdom over age, reinforcing the idea that wisdom is not solely the domain of the elderly.