Introduction to Job 4:1
Job 4:1 marks the beginning of the first response to Job’s lament. The verse introduces the speech of Elifaz the Temani using a formula common in biblical narrative and dialogue: two sequential wayyiqtol verbs, וַיַּעַן (“and he answered”) and וַיֹּאמַר (“and he said”). This construction creates a formal transition into direct speech and is characteristic of Hebrew dialogue conventions. This lesson explores the grammatical and rhetorical function of double wayyiqtol verbs in introducing biblical speeches.
וַ֭יַּעַן אֱלִיפַ֥ז הַֽתֵּימָנִ֗י וַיֹּאמַֽר׃
Analysis of Key Words and Structures
- וַ֭יַּעַן (vayyaʿan) – Wayyiqtol verb from ענה (“to answer”), 3rd person masculine singular. Functions here as a narrative response verb, common in dialogic texts to mark the beginning of speech.
- אֱלִיפַ֥ז (ʾElifaz) – Proper noun, subject of the verb. This is one of Job’s companions who participates in the poetic dialogues.
- הַֽתֵּימָנִ֗י (hatteimani) – Gentilic adjective from תֵימָן, “Temanite,” modifying Elifaz. Definite article הַ־ is prefixed, marking him as the Temani.
- וַיֹּאמַֽר (vayyomer) – Wayyiqtol verb from אמר (“to say”), 3rd person masculine singular. This verb formally introduces the content of speech, even when the actual words are postponed until the following verse.
Wayyiqtol Verb Doubling: Narrative Framing in Dialogue
The verse uses a paired wayyiqtol construction:
1. וַיַּעַן – “And he answered”
2. וַיֹּאמַר – “And he said”
This construction occurs frequently in biblical narrative, especially in poetic or elevated prose, and has several important grammatical and stylistic functions:
– Framing device: The use of וַיַּעַן signals a direct reply to a prior speech or action. It positions the speaker in a responsive role, even if the word “answer” is not fully literal.
– Speech formula: וַיֹּאמַר is the standard wayyiqtol form used to introduce the actual spoken content. Even though it often appears redundant after וַיַּעַן, it marks the official start of speech in Hebrew discourse.
– Paratactic narrative: Biblical Hebrew frequently uses parataxis (placing clauses side-by-side without subordinating conjunctions). Here, both verbs are placed sequentially, creating a rhythm and solemnity appropriate for the dramatic entrance of Elifaz’s first speech.
This pattern—וַיַּעַן X וַיֹּאמַר—occurs dozens of times in Scripture, particularly in poetic or wisdom texts. It serves as a narrative hinge, transitioning from narrator’s voice to direct speech.
Why Wayyiqtol Doubling Sets the Tone for Biblical Wisdom Dialogue
The use of וַיַּעַן… וַיֹּאמַר in Job 4:1 is not redundant—it is a stylistic and grammatical formula that elevates the tone and frames Elifaz’s speech with weight and solemnity. This pattern communicates that what follows is not casual dialogue but a formal, wisdom-laden response within a literary drama.
By fronting both verbs before any quotation, the text separates narrator action from speaker content. This separation emphasizes that the speeches in Job are crafted poetic discourses, not spontaneous conversations.
Understanding this construction allows us to recognize how Biblical Hebrew distinguishes narrative transitions from embedded dialogue. In Job—a book of poetic theology—such framing devices are key to following the dramatic flow and understanding the rhetorical balance between speakers.
Thus, in this single verse, Biblical Hebrew grammar sets the stage for an entire cycle of wisdom speech through repetition, rhythm, and structure.
