Learn more about Eliphaz

Introduction to Eliphaz

The name “Eliphaz” means “God is fine gold” or “My God is strength,” reflecting a noble and perhaps even divine quality associated with the name. Eliphaz is a figure found in both genealogical and narrative contexts within the Bible. Most notably, he is recognized as one of the three principal friends of Job in the Book of Job, as well as a son of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob. The dual appearances of Eliphaz in the Bible—one genealogical and the other narrative—offer important insights into biblical theology, suffering, wisdom literature, and the ancestry of Edom.

Eliphaz Pronunciation

“Eliphaz” is pronounced as EL-ih-faz, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Eliphaz in the Bible

There are two primary individuals named Eliphaz in the Bible, each found in distinct contexts:

• Eliphaz the Temanite: A central figure in the Book of Job, Eliphaz is one of Job’s three friends who come to comfort him during his time of suffering. He speaks three times in the dialogue (Job 4–5; 15; 22), offering philosophical and theological reflections rooted in a traditional view of divine justice. Eliphaz argues that suffering is a result of sin, which prompts Job to defend his innocence and challenge such retributive assumptions. Though wise and respectful in tone, Eliphaz ultimately misrepresents God's justice, as evidenced by God's rebuke of him in Job 42:7.
• Eliphaz, son of Esau: The eldest son of Esau, mentioned in Genesis 36:4, 10–12. He is the father of several Edomite clans, including Teman, from whom the Temanites descend. One of his sons is Amalek, the ancestor of the Amalekites, a group that would later become a major adversary of Israel. This Eliphaz plays a crucial role in the ancestral lineage of Israel’s neighbors and rivals.

Eliphaz the Temanite – Detailed Analysis

In the poetic dialogues of Job, Eliphaz speaks first and sets the tone for the theological debate. He presents his arguments in a structured, traditional form of wisdom:

• Job 4–5: Eliphaz appeals to a vision and suggests that the innocent do not suffer, implying that Job must have sinned.
• Job 15: He doubles down on his assertion, challenging Job’s integrity and accusing him of undermining divine wisdom.
• Job 22: Eliphaz becomes more accusatory, suggesting specific sins Job might have committed.

God’s response in Job 42:7 is critical: “You have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has.” Eliphaz, though well-meaning and representative of traditional wisdom, ultimately fails to grasp the true nature of divine sovereignty and the reality of innocent suffering.

Eliphaz, Son of Esau – Genealogical Importance

Eliphaz’s inclusion in the genealogical records of Genesis highlights his role in the formation of Edomite tribes:

• Genesis 36:4: Eliphaz is born to Esau and Adah.
• Genesis 36:10–12: He is the father of Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, Kenaz, and Amalek (through his concubine Timna).

This Eliphaz is a foundational figure in Edomite history. The Temanites, for instance, are often associated with wisdom (Jeremiah 49:7), possibly explaining the attribution of "Temanite" to Job’s friend.

Related Themes and Meanings to Eliphaz

• Wisdom Literature: Eliphaz the Temanite contributes to the core theological debate in Job, representing traditional retributive justice.
• Suffering and Innocence: His dialogue with Job underscores the tension between suffering and sin, a major theme in the book.
• Edomite Legacy: The genealogical Eliphaz ties into the broader narrative of Israel's interaction with Edom and Amalek.
• Prophetic Rebuke: God’s rebuke of Eliphaz emphasizes the importance of speaking rightly about divine matters, even when well-intentioned.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Eliphaz

• Eliphaz is the only one among Job’s friends to claim a divine vision (Job 4:12–21), showing his appeal to mystic insight.
• The name “Teman” means “south” and Teman was a known center of wisdom in Edom—this may reflect why Eliphaz is seen as a representative of learned tradition.
• The connection between Eliphaz and Amalek through Timna gives an early biblical hint at the future hostility between Israel and Amalek (Exodus 17:8-16).
• Though Eliphaz errs in his theology, he still participates in Job’s restoration by offering sacrifices as commanded by God, with Job interceding for him (Job 42:9).

Conclusion

Eliphaz serves as both a historical and theological figure in Scripture. As Esau’s son, he contributes to the ethnogenesis of the Edomite and Amalekite peoples. As Job’s friend, he becomes a mouthpiece for conventional wisdom that God ultimately corrects. Eliphaz’s story illustrates the complexities of human understanding of divine justice and the importance of speaking truthfully about God.