[1] So these three men quit answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. [2] Then Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite from the family of Ram became angry. He was angry at Job because he had justified himself rather than God. [3] He was also angry at Job's three friends because they had failed to refute him and yet had condemned him. [4] Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because they were all older than he. [5] But when he saw that the three men could not answer Job, he became angry. [6] So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite replied: I am young in years, while you are old; therefore I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know. [7] I thought that age should speak and maturity should teach wisdom. [8] But it is the spirit in a person- the breath from the Almighty- that gives anyone understanding. [9] It is not only the old who are wise or the elderly who understand how to judge. [10] Therefore I say, "Listen to me. I too will declare what I know." [11] Look, I waited for your conclusions; I listened to your insights as you sought for words. [12] I paid close attention to you. Yet no one proved Job wrong; not one of you refuted his arguments. [13] So do not claim, "We have found wisdom; let God deal with him, not man." [14] But Job has not directed his argument to me, and I will not respond to him with your arguments. [15] Job's friends are dismayed and can no longer answer; words have left them. [16] Should I continue to wait now that they are silent, now that they stand there and no longer answer? [17] I too will answer; yes, I will tell what I know. [18] For I am full of words, and my spirit compels me to speak. [19] My heart is like unvented wine; it is about to burst like new wineskins. [20] I must speak so that I can find relief; I must open my lips and respond. [21] I will be partial to no one, and I will not give anyone an undeserved title. [22] For I do not know how to give such titles; otherwise, my Maker would remove me in an instant.
