King James Version

What Does Job 34:1 Mean?

Job 34:1 in the King James Version says “Furthermore Elihu answered and said,” — study this verse from Job chapter 34 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Furthermore Elihu answered and said,”

Job 34:1 · KJV

Context

1

Furthermore Elihu answered and said,

2

Hear my words, O ye wise men; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge.

3

For the ear trieth words, as the mouth tasteth meat. mouth: Heb. palate

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Furthermore Elihu answered and said (וַיַּעַן אֱלִיהוּא וַיֹּאמַר, vaya'an Elihu vayomar)—Elihu begins his second major speech (chapters 34-37), the longest uninterrupted discourse in Job besides God's speeches. His name means 'My God is He' (אֱלִיהוּ), emphasizing monotheistic devotion. The formula 'answered and said' (ya'an vayomar) is prophetic, used throughout Scripture for divine messengers. Elihu presents himself as mediator between Job's suffering and God's justice, a role pointing typologically toward Christ the true mediator (1 Timothy 2:5).

Elihu's speeches (chapters 32-37) appear nowhere else in Job—the other characters never respond to him, and God doesn't rebuke him as He does the three friends (42:7). This textual silence has sparked debate: some view Elihu as inspired preparation for God's speeches, others as youthful presumption. His theology emphasizes God's educative purposes in suffering (33:14-30), moving beyond retributive explanations. This anticipates Hebrews 12:5-11 on divine discipline as proof of sonship.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Elihu introduces himself in chapter 32 as younger than Job's three friends, waiting respectfully before speaking (32:4-6). Ancient Near Eastern culture valued age and experience, making Elihu's eventual speech bold yet culturally appropriate after elders failed to answer Job. His sudden appearance and disappearance in the narrative has led some scholars to question whether his speeches were later additions, but canonical Scripture includes them as part of wisdom revelation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Elihu's role as mediator between Job and God anticipate Christ's mediatorial work?
  2. What does the younger Elihu's respectful waiting teach about humility and wisdom in theological discourse?
  3. How should we evaluate Elihu's theology given that God neither commends nor condemns him explicitly?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וַיַּ֥עַן1 of 3

“answered”

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,

אֱלִיה֗וּא2 of 3

“Furthermore Elihu”

H453

elihu, the name of one of job's friends, and of three israelites

וַיֹּאמַֽר׃3 of 3

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 34:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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