King James Version

What Does Job 32:17 Mean?

Job 32:17 in the King James Version says “I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion.” — study this verse from Job chapter 32 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion.”

Job 32:17 · King James Version

Context

15

They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking. left: Heb. removed speeches from themselves

16

When I had waited, (for they spake not, but stood still, and answered no more;)

17

I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion.

18

For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me. matter: Heb. words spirit: Heb. spirit of my belly

19

Behold, my belly is as wine which hath no vent; it is ready to burst like new bottles. hath: Heb. is not opened

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Commentaries2 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion (אֲעֶנֶּה־אַף־אָנִי חֶלְקִי אֲחַוֶּה־דֵּעִי גַּם־אָנִי, 'e'enneh-'af-'ani chelqi 'achavveh-de'i gam-'ani)—'anah means to answer or respond; cheleq is part, portion, or share; chavah means to declare or show; de'ah is knowledge or opinion. The repeated 'I also' ('af-'ani, gam-'ani) emphasizes Elihu's determination to contribute.

Elihu commits to answer his 'part' (cheleq)—not claiming exhaustive knowledge but offering his contribution to understanding Job's situation. The word 'opinion' (de'ah) shows appropriate humility; he's not claiming divine revelation but offering his perspective shaped by observation and reflection. This balance between confidence and humility characterizes wise speech: bold enough to contribute, humble enough to acknowledge limitations. Solomon sought wisdom to judge God's people (1 Kings 3:9); Paul commanded teaching sound doctrine (Titus 2:1); yet both acknowledged that human knowledge is partial (1 Corinthians 13:9).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Elihu's speeches (chapters 32-37) occupy unique space in Job's structure. Unlike the three friends whom God rebukes (42:7), Elihu receives no divine comment—neither condemnation nor explicit approval. Some scholars view him as preparation for God's speeches, offering more sophisticated theology than the friends while still falling short of divine wisdom. Others see him as prophet-like figure introducing key themes God will develop. His role remains debated, but his commitment to contribute rather than remain silent stands clear.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you balance confidence in offering your perspective with humility about the limits of your knowledge?
  2. When is silence more appropriate than speaking, and when does responsibility require us to contribute even if others haven't asked?
  3. What does Elihu's example teach about participating in theological discussions—neither arrogantly claiming final answers nor passively withholding helpful perspective?

Compare 2 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
אַעֲנֶ֣ה1 of 8

“I said I will answer”

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אַף2 of 8
H637

meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though

אֲנִ֣י3 of 8
H589

i

חֶלְקִ֑י4 of 8

“also my part”

H2506

properly, smoothness (of the tongue)

אֲחַוֶּ֖ה5 of 8

“I also will shew”

H2331

properly, to live; by implication (intensively) to declare or show

דֵעִ֣י6 of 8

“mine opinion”

H1843

knowledge

אַף7 of 8
H637

meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though

אָֽנִי׃8 of 8
H589

i

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 32:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Job 32:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 32:10Job 35:3-4Job 33:12

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