1. Then answered Eliphaz. The speeches in the book of Job divide themselves into three cycles. This chapter marks the beginning of the second cycle, which continues through 21. The order in the second cycle is the same as in the first: Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar speak in order, each followed by a reply from Job. This speech of Eliphaz is harsh and argumentative in tone. It divides itself into three sections: (1) a direct reproof of Job for his presumption ( 1-6); (2) a sarcastic reflection on him for conceit and arrogancy ( 7-16); (3) an exposition of God’s ways with man, based upon the experience of ancient sages ( 17-35).