Barachel

Biblical Record

Barachel is mentioned only twice, both times in chapter 32 of the Book of Job. On each occasion his name appears in the introduction of his son Elihu. Job 32:2 introduces Elihu as "the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram," and Job 32:6 records that "Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite" began to speak. Scripture says nothing about what Barachel did, how he lived, or when he died.

Significance Within the Bible

Barachel's name serves to identify Elihu's origin and lineage. The Book of Job introduces Job's three friends only by their places of origin, as in "Eliphaz the Temanite," but Elihu is introduced with both his father's name and his clan. Elihu's speeches extend from Job 32 through Job 37. Barachel does not appear in the New Testament.

Interpretation and Discussion

The name is generally understood to mean "God blesses" in Hebrew. Many interpreters connect "Buzite" with Buz, the son of Abraham's brother Nahor, mentioned in Genesis 22:21, and regard the Buzites as his descendants. The text, however, does not state this relationship directly. It is also unclear to whom "the kindred of Ram" refers. Some commentaries link the name with Aram, but this is not an established view. Additional traditions about Barachel himself have no basis in the biblical text.

In the Korean Church

Barachel is rarely treated in his own right in sermons or Sunday school. His name is usually mentioned only in passing, to explain Elihu's lineage when Elihu's speeches are introduced in expository preaching on Job.