Job 32:17 - I also will answer my part, and I also will show my opinion.

Generated Verse: Job 32:17

What does "Job 32:17" mean?


Job 32:17, "I also will answer my part, and I also will show my opinion," is spoken by Elihu. Understanding it requires some context:

The Context: Job and his three friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar) have engaged in a lengthy debate about Job's suffering. Job maintains his innocence, while his friends insist that his suffering must be punishment for some secret sin. Elihu has been listening to the entire debate and is growing increasingly frustrated. He feels neither Job nor his friends have presented a satisfactory argument.

Elihu's Youth & Hesitation: Elihu is younger than Job and his friends, and this verse comes after he's explained his reluctance to speak earlier (Job 32:6-7). He states he was holding back due to their age and presumed wisdom.

The Verse's Meaning: In verse 17, Elihu is essentially declaring:

"I also will answer my part": He feels a responsibility to add his perspective to the discussion. He believes he has a valuable contribution to make, a part he needs to play. He's implying that keeping silent would be a failure on his part. The phrase "answer my part" suggests a sense of duty or obligation to speak.
"And I also will show my opinion": He's not just going to reiterate what has already been said. He has a new opinion, a different perspective, to share. He is asserting his right to express his unique viewpoint, even though he is younger.

In summary, Elihu is overcoming his initial hesitation and announcing his intention to offer his own perspective on the matter. He believes he has a unique and necessary contribution to make to the discussion about Job's suffering and the nature of God's justice. It's a statement of confidence and determination to speak truth as he understands it. He feels compelled to weigh in, regardless of his age.

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