Introduction:
Eliu, also spelled Elihu, is a significant yet often overlooked figure in the Book of Job, one of the poetic books of the Old Testament. His discourse is found in Job 32-37, where he presents a unique perspective on the suffering of Job and the nature of God. Eliu's speeches serve as a prelude to the divine response from God Himself, and his role is pivotal in the narrative structure of the book.

Background:
Eliu is introduced in Job 32:2 as the son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram. His lineage suggests a connection to the Aramean tribes, as Buz is mentioned as a descendant of Nahor, Abraham's brother (Genesis 22:21). Eliu's youth is emphasized in contrast to the elder friends of Job—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—who have already spoken extensively.

Role in the Book of Job:
Eliu's speeches are distinct from those of Job's three friends. While Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar focus on the retributive justice of God, suggesting that Job's suffering is a direct result of his sin, Eliu offers a different perspective. He is angered by Job's self-righteousness and the inability of the three friends to provide a satisfactory answer to Job's plight (Job 32:3-5).

Eliu's Speeches:
Eliu's discourse is divided into four speeches, each addressing different aspects of Job's situation and the character of God:

1. First Speech (Job 32:6-33:33): Eliu begins by expressing his respect for the elders but asserts that wisdom is not limited by age. He emphasizes that God communicates with humans in various ways, including dreams and visions, to turn them from wrongdoing and to preserve their souls.

2. Second Speech (Job 34): Eliu defends God's justice, arguing that God is incapable of wrongdoing. He challenges Job's claims of innocence and suggests that God repays individuals according to their deeds, but His justice is beyond human comprehension.

3. Third Speech (Job 35): Eliu addresses Job's assertion that righteousness is futile. He argues that human actions do not affect God directly but have consequences for other people. Eliu emphasizes that God is attentive to the cries of the oppressed and that human pride can hinder one's relationship with God.

4. Fourth Speech (Job 36-37): Eliu extols God's greatness and sovereignty, highlighting His control over nature and His inscrutable ways. He calls Job to consider the majesty of God and to trust in His wisdom and justice.

Theological Significance:
Eliu's speeches serve as a theological bridge between the human dialogues and the divine response. He introduces the idea that suffering can be a means of divine instruction and purification rather than mere punishment. Eliu's emphasis on God's transcendence and the limitations of human understanding prepares the way for God's own speeches, which further underscore these themes.

Interpretation and Legacy:
Eliu's role has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. Some view him as a prophetic figure who speaks truthfully about God's nature, while others see him as a youthful zealot whose insights are incomplete. Regardless, his speeches contribute to the rich tapestry of the Book of Job, offering a perspective that challenges both Job and his friends to reconsider their understanding of God and suffering.

Biblical References:
· Job 32:2-5 : "Then Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became very angry. He was angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God, and he was also angry with Job’s three friends because they had failed to refute Job, and yet had condemned him. Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were older than he. But when he saw that the three men had no further reply, his anger was aroused."

Eliu's contribution to the Book of Job remains a subject of theological reflection, offering insights into the nature of divine justice, human suffering, and the pursuit of wisdom.ELIU

e-li'-u (Eliou; the Revised Version (British and American) ELIHU):

One of the ancestors of Judith (APC Judith 8:1), and therefore of the tribe of Simeon.

Eliu
...ELIU. e-li'-u (Eliou; the Revised Version (British and American) ELIHU): One of
the ancestors of Judith (APC Judith 8:1), and therefore of the tribe of Simeon. ...
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Elite (2 Occurrences)

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Eliud (2 Occurrences)

/e/eliud.htm - 7k

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