In the context of the book of Job and in light of patterns of biblical
A INTRODUCTIONIn his four monologues, Elihu uses Job's name nine times, addressing him directly (33:1, 31, 37:14) and indirectly (32:12, 34:5, 7, 35, 36; 35:16). This is so striking that it demands explanation. It should influence interpretation of the notoriously complex role of Elihu and it should be reflected in translations. This paper will first show how striking Elihu's usage is, within the book of Job, from the perspective of discourse linguistics, and in the light of patterns in Old Testament usage. It will then argue, in dialogue with an extensive range of commentaries, that the usage reveals him as rude and disrespectful to Job, encouraging the reader to have a critical attitude to Elihu and his comments. Lastly, it will make recommendations for translation, both in languages of northern Mozambique, where the author is based, and in modern European languages.
B CALLING JOB BY HIS NAMEOf course, Job's name is common in the book named after him. It is used thirty-seven times by the narrator, six times by YHWH and once by the Satan. The author wishes to thank SIM Mozambique for allowing study time and Tyndale House, Cambridge, UK for critical resources and relationships. Tayeb and Cara Foster-Karim helped suggest the title.