אֱלִיהוּ (e.li.hu)
e.li.hu
Elihu
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Elihu, meaning "He is my God," appears ten times in Scripture, referring to several distinct individuals across different tribes and eras. In the narrative of Job, it identifies the young man who challenges the three older friends with fresh arguments about divine justice (Job 32–37). This Elihu stands apart from the other speakers, insisting that God’s suffering is often disciplinary rather than punitive.
Outside the Book of Job, the name belongs to members of Levi and Ephraim. One Elihu is listed as a Levite gatekeeper in Chronicles (1 Chronicles 26:24), while another appears in genealogies tracing Samuel’s ancestry (1 Chronicles 6:27). These references highlight how common the name was among Israel’s religious leaders, serving as a constant reminder of God’s presence within the community.
Translators consistently render this Hebrew name as Elihu, preserving its theological weight. Unlike names that describe physical traits or locations, Elihu focuses entirely on relationship with the Divine. Its recurrence in both historical records and poetic dialogue suggests it was a respected name among those serving in temple and royal contexts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Elihu carries a quiet but powerful declaration: "He is my God." This phrase appears in several places in Scripture, most notably with the young man who spoke to Job. While the older friends had exhausted their arguments, Elihu stepped forward not to condemn, but to offer a fresh perspective on why suffering exists and how God remains just. His presence reminds us that even when we feel unheard or misunderstood, there is still room for new understanding and divine clarity.
In other parts of the Bible, the name appears among those who served in temple roles or royal courts. These individuals were part of a community dedicated to keeping God’s presence central in their daily lives. The recurrence of this name suggests that many people throughout Israel’s history chose to define themselves by their relationship with the Lord rather than by status or achievement.
When you encounter this name, it invites you to consider your own stance before God. Like Elihu, we may not always have all the answers, but we can trust that God is worthy of our attention and respect. Whether in times of confusion or clarity, remembering that "He is my God" provides a steady anchor for the soul.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Elihu9×
- and/ Elihu1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֱלִיה֗וּא3×
- אֱלִיה֖וּ2×
- וֶֽ/אֱלִיה֗וּ1×
- אֱלִיה֣וּא1×
- אֱלִיה֛וּא1×
- אֱלִיה֗וּ1×
- אֱלִיה֖וּא1×
Key Verses
-
Job 32:2
Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel, the Buzite, of the family of Ram, was kindled against Job. His wrath was kindled because he justified himself rather than God.
This verse introduces Elihu’s motivation, showing his anger was directed at Job for justifying himself rather than God.
-
Job 32:6
Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered, “I am young, and you are very old. Therefore I held back, and didn’t dare show you my opinion.
Here Elihu explains his hesitation to speak earlier, acknowledging the age difference and showing respect for his elders.