Job 15:1 (KJV)

What does Job 15:1 mean?

Job 15:1 introduces a new speech in the story, showing that Eliphaz the Temanite is about to respond to Job. This verse simply sets the stage for Eliphaz to speak, marking a shift in the conversation among Job and his friends.

Eliphaz is one of Job’s three friends who have come to comfort him after his suffering. In this verse, the narrative signals that Eliphaz is about to address Job again, beginning the second round of speeches. The verse does not contain any argument or teaching itself; it is a transition that tells the reader who is speaking next in the ongoing discussion.

The Hebrew behind Job 15:1

• עָנָה (ʿanah, H6030) — “answered”: This word often means to respond or reply, not just to answer a question. Here, it shows that Eliphaz is reacting directly to what Job has just said, continuing the dialogue.
• אֱלִיפַז (ʾEliphaz, H464) — “Eliphaz”: This is the personal name of Job’s friend, identifying who is about to speak.
• הַתֵּימָנִי (hattemani, H8489) — “the Temanite”: This describes Eliphaz’s origin, linking him to Teman, a region known for wisdom. It hints at why Eliphaz feels qualified to speak.
• אָמַר (ʾamar, H559) — “said”: This is the common Hebrew word for “said,” introducing the actual words that Eliphaz will speak in the following verses.

Why Job 15:1 matters

• Job 15:1 signals the beginning of a new speech, helping readers track the flow of the conversation and understand whose perspective is being presented.
• By naming Eliphaz as a Temanite, the verse reminds readers of his background and the traditional wisdom he represents, which shapes the tone and content of his coming speech.
• This verse marks a turning point in the dialogue, as Eliphaz’s second speech introduces a more confrontational tone compared to his earlier words, setting up the escalating tension in the book.