Job 32:2 - Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel, the Buzite, of the family of Ram, was kindled against Job. His wrath was kindled because he justified himself rather than God.

Generated Verse: Job 32:2

What does "Job 32:2" mean?


Job 32:2 marks the entrance of Elihu into the book of Job. It explains the reason for his anger towards Job:

"Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel, the Buzite, of the family of Ram, was kindled against Job." This introduces Elihu and states that he became angry with Job. The phrase "was kindled" suggests a growing, intense anger. The lengthy description of Elihu's lineage emphasizes his importance in the narrative.

"His wrath was kindled because he justified himself rather than God." This is the key reason for Elihu's anger. Job, in his suffering, had persistently maintained his innocence and argued that God was treating him unfairly. In doing so, Elihu believes Job had, in effect, elevated his own sense of justice above God's wisdom and righteousness.

In essence, Elihu is upset that Job is prioritizing his own perceived righteousness and blaming God for injustice, instead of accepting God's sovereignty and wisdom, even if it is beyond human comprehension. Elihu feels that Job is questioning God's character and judgment.

What categories does "Job 32:2" have?