Topical Encyclopedia Eli'phaz is a prominent figure in the Book of Job, one of the poetic books of the Old Testament. He is identified as one of Job's three friends who come to comfort him during his time of suffering. Eli'phaz is described as a Temanite, suggesting he is from Teman, a region associated with Edom, known for its wise men (Jeremiah 49:7). His name, meaning "God is fine gold" or "My God is pure gold," reflects a theologically rich heritage.Role in the Book of Job Eli'phaz is the first of Job's friends to speak, initiating the dialogues that form the core of the book. His speeches are found in Job 4-5, 15, and 22. Eli'phaz's approach is characterized by a blend of traditional wisdom and personal experience. He is often seen as the most moderate and courteous of Job's friends, yet his arguments are deeply rooted in the retributive justice theology prevalent in ancient Near Eastern thought. First Speech (Job 4-5) In his initial discourse, Eli'phaz begins with a gentle rebuke, reminding Job of his past piety and encouraging him to seek God. He suggests that suffering is a result of sin, implying that Job's afflictions are due to some hidden transgression. Eli'phaz appeals to a vision he claims to have received, which emphasizes the frailty and imperfection of humans before God: "Can a mortal be more righteous than God, or a man more pure than his Maker?" (Job 4:17). Second Speech (Job 15) Eli'phaz's second speech is more direct and accusatory. He criticizes Job for his bold words against God and accuses him of undermining piety. Eli'phaz reiterates the belief that the wicked suffer and the righteous prosper, a theme consistent with the wisdom literature of the time. He warns Job of the fate of the wicked, urging him to repent and return to God. Third Speech (Job 22) In his final speech, Eli'phaz becomes even more confrontational, directly accusing Job of specific sins, such as withholding water from the thirsty and food from the hungry. He urges Job to "Submit to God and be at peace with Him; in this way prosperity will come to you" (Job 22:21). Eli'phaz maintains that reconciliation with God will restore Job's fortunes. Theological Perspective Eli'phaz represents the traditional wisdom perspective that equates righteousness with prosperity and wickedness with suffering. His speeches reflect a belief in a moral order governed by divine justice, where suffering is a direct consequence of sin. This viewpoint is challenged by the narrative of Job, who maintains his innocence and questions the simplistic application of retributive justice. Legacy and Interpretation Eli'phaz's role in the Book of Job has been the subject of much theological reflection. While his arguments are rooted in conventional wisdom, the book ultimately critiques this perspective, highlighting the complexity of human suffering and the inscrutability of God's ways. Eli'phaz's dialogues serve as a foil to Job's steadfastness and the eventual divine revelation that transcends human understanding. Eli'phaz's character and speeches continue to be studied for their literary and theological significance, offering insights into the nature of suffering, divine justice, and the limitations of human wisdom. Concordance Eli'phaz (7 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 1:35 1 Chronicles 1:36 Job 4:1 Job 15:1 Job 22:1 Job 42:7 Job 42:9 Thesaurus Eli'phaz (7 Occurrences)Eli'phaz. El'iphaz, Eli'phaz. Eliphel . Multi-Version Concordance Eli'phaz (7 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 1:35 The sons of Esau: Eliphaz ... /e/eli'phaz.htm - 7k Eliphel (1 Occurrence) El'iphaz (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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