What does Job 32:21 mean?
"Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man." - Job 32:21

Job 32:21 from the King James Version of the Bible states, "Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man." This verse comes from the book of Job, which is often regarded as a book of wisdom and understanding, as it deals with the issues of suffering, the sovereignty of God, and the righteousness of humankind.
The context of this verse is important in understanding its meaning. The book of Job tells the story of a man named Job who is described as being blameless and upright, fearing God and turning away from evil. However, his faith is tested when he goes through a series of trials, including losing his wealth, his health, and his family. Throughout the story, Job's friends try to offer their own explanations for his suffering, but these are ultimately unsatisfactory. In the passage containing Job 32:21, a new character, Elihu, enters the narrative. Elihu has been silent while Job and his friends have spoken, but he is now eager to share his own perspective and wisdom with them.
In this particular verse, Elihu is expressing his desire to speak honestly and without partiality. He is asking the others to hear him without showing favoritism or giving undue honor to anyone based on their status or position. Elihu is advocating for integrity and fairness in communication and interaction, urging his listeners not to seek the approval of others through flattery or by giving them empty titles. Instead, he is emphasizing the importance of speaking the truth and treating others with respect and equality, regardless of their standing in society.
One of the key themes of this verse is the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships. Elihu is cautioning against the dangers of showing favoritism or giving insincere praise to others. His words touch on the universal truth that genuine relationships are built on sincerity and fairness. By encouraging his listeners to reject the practice of flattery and the unequal treatment of individuals, Elihu is promoting a sense of equality and mutual respect among people. This theme resonates with the broader biblical principles of love, justice, and humility.
The verse also carries a theme of ethical communication. Elihu's words highlight the significance of speaking truthfully and openly, without seeking to gain favor or advantage through dishonest means. In a world where people often use flattery and false praise to manipulate or deceive others, Elihu's message serves as a call to uphold moral standards of honesty and straightforwardness in our interactions with one another.
Furthermore, the verse reflects the biblical value of humility. By warning against the giving of flattering titles, Elihu is emphasizing the importance of remaining humble and not elevating oneself or others above what is true and just. This idea of humility is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, and it is closely tied to the concept of recognizing and honoring the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God.
In addition to its thematic significance, the verse also holds symbolic value. It serves as a reminder of the need for authenticity and integrity in our relationships and communication, both with others and with God. It challenges us to examine our own attitudes and behaviors, encouraging us to strive for humility and sincerity in our interactions.
Overall, Job 32:21 from the King James Version of the Bible conveys a powerful message about the importance of honesty, fairness, and humility in our relationships and communication. It calls us to embody these virtues in our daily lives and interactions, reflecting the timeless wisdom and moral principles found throughout the scriptures.
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Job 32:21 Artwork
Job 32:21 - "Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man."
"Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man." - Job 32:21
Job 21:32 - "Yet shall he be brought to the grave, and shall remain in the tomb."
"Yet shall he be brought to the grave, and shall remain in the tomb." - Job 21:32
Job 32:1 - "So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes."
Job 32:12 - "Yea, I attended unto you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job, or that answered his words:"
Job 32:4 - "Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he."
Job 21:1 - "But Job answered and said,"
Genesis 21-32
Job 32:3 - "Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job."
Job 32:15 - "They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking."
Job 32:8 - "But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding."
"But Job answered and said," - Job 21:1
Job 36:32 - "With clouds he covereth the light; and commandeth it not to shine by the cloud that cometh betwixt."
Job 15:32 - "It shall be accomplished before his time, and his branch shall not be green."
Job 32:9 - "Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment."
Job 31:32 - "The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveller."
Job 1:21
Job 32:18 - "For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me."
Job 32:16 - "When I had waited, (for they spake not, but stood still, and answered no more;)"
Job 32:2 - "Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God."
Job 32:20 - "I will speak, that I may be refreshed: I will open my lips and answer."
Job 32:7 - "I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom."
Job 32:10 - "Therefore I said, Hearken to me; I also will shew mine opinion."
Job 32:5 - "When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was kindled."
Job 1:21
Job 3:20-21 - "Job 3:20-21: Why is light given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul, to those who long for death that does not come, who search for it more than for hidden treasure?"
Job 41:32 - "He maketh a path to shine after him; one would think the deep to be hoary."
Job 32:17 - "I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion."
Job 32:19 - "Behold, my belly is as wine which hath no vent; it is ready to burst like new bottles."