[1] So these three men stopped answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. [2] This kindled the anger of Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram. He burned with anger against Job for justifying himself rather than God, [3] and he burned with anger against Job’s three friends because they had failed to refute Job, and yet had condemned him. [4] Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were older than he. [5] But when he saw that the three men had no further reply, his anger was kindled. [6] So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared: “I am young in years, while you are old; that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know. [7] I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom. [8] But there is a spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding. [9] It is not only the old who are wise, or the elderly who understand justice. [10] Therefore I say, ‘Listen to me; I too will declare what I know.’ [11] Indeed, I waited while you spoke; I listened to your reasoning; as you searched for words, [12] I paid you full attention. But no one proved Job wrong; not one of you rebutted his arguments. [13] So do not claim, ‘We have found wisdom; let God, not man, refute him.’ [14] But Job has not directed his words against me, and I will not answer him with your arguments. [15] Job’s friends are dismayed, with no more to say; words have escaped them. [16] Must I wait, now that they are silent, now that they stand and no longer reply? [17] I too will answer; yes, I will declare what I know. [18] For I am full of words, and my spirit within me compels me. [19] Behold, my belly is like unvented wine; it is about to burst like a new wineskin. [20] I must speak and find relief; I must open my lips and respond. [21] I will be partial to no one, nor will I flatter any man. [22] For I do not know how to flatter, or my Maker would remove me in an instant.[’’]
