Job 33:31 (KJV)

What does Job 33:31 mean?

Job 33:31 is Elihu’s call for Job to pay close attention and listen quietly, as Elihu is about to speak further. Elihu is asking Job to stop interrupting and to give him a fair hearing.

Elihu, a younger man who has joined Job’s older friends in speaking, is addressing Job directly in the middle of a long speech. Elihu wants Job to listen carefully and remain silent so that Elihu can explain his perspective about Job’s suffering and God’s ways. This verse shows Elihu’s desire to be heard and signals that he still has more to say.

The Hebrew behind Job 33:31

• "well" (הַקְשֵׁב, haqšēḇ; H7181): This word means "pay close attention" or "listen carefully." Elihu is not just asking for casual listening, but for Job’s focused attention.
• "hearken" (שָׁמַע, shāma‘; H8085): This word often means to listen with the intent to understand or obey. Elihu wants Job to truly consider his words, not just hear them.
• "peace" (דָּמַם, dāmam; H2790): This word means "to be silent" or "to be still." Elihu is asking Job to stop speaking so that he can finish his point.
• "speak" (דָּבַר, dāḇar; H1696): This is the common word for "to speak" or "to declare." Elihu is emphasizing that he has something important to say.

Why Job 33:31 matters

• Job 33:31 shows Elihu’s respectful but firm approach, asking for Job’s attention rather than demanding silence harshly.
• The verse highlights the structure of Elihu’s speech, as he pauses to make sure Job is truly listening before continuing.
• This moment helps set the tone for the rest of Elihu’s argument, showing that he wants a real conversation rather than just lecturing Job.