33:23 messenger. The Hebrew for “messenger” is the usual word for “angel.” Some have interpreted this as a Messianic prophecy, with the “angel” and the “one among a thousand” being prophetic of the coming Messiah, who would provide the needed “ransom.” In context, however, it seems clear that the arrogant young Elihu is making these claims for himself.

33:23 interpreter. This is not the usual word for an interpreter of the meanings of dreams or other revelations. It is more commonly translated as “mocker”—a type of interpretation perhaps appropriate for Elihu, but hardly for the Messiah.