[1] These three men stopped answering Job because he thought he was righteous. [2] Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite from the clan of Ram was angry, angry with Job because he considered himself more righteous than God. [3] He was also angry with his three friends because they hadn’t found an answer but nevertheless thought Job wicked. [4] Elihu had waited while Job spoke, for they were older than he. [5] When Elihu saw that there had been no response in the speeches of the three men, he became very angry. [6] Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite said: I’m young and you’re old, so I held back, afraid to express my opinion to you. [7] I thought, Let days speak; let multiple years make wisdom known. [8] But the spirit in a person, the Almighty’s breath, gives understanding. [9] The advanced in days aren’t wise; the old don’t understand what’s right. [10] Therefore, I say: “Listen to me; I’ll state my view, even I.” [11] Look, I waited while you spoke, listened while you reasoned, while you searched for words. [12] I was attentive to you, but you offered no rebuke to Job, no answer from you for his words. [13] Be careful you don’t say, “We’ve found wisdom; God, not a person, will defeat him.” [14] Now Job hasn’t addressed me, and I won’t quote you to him. [15] They are troubled, no longer answer; words now escape them. [16] I waited, but they didn’t speak, for they stood but answered no more. [17] I will answer. Indeed, I will state my piece; I too will declare my view, [18] for I’m full of words. The spirit in my belly compels me. [19] Look, my belly is like unopened wine; like new wineskins it will burst. [20] I will speak and get relief; I will open my lips and respond. [21] I won’t be partial to anyone, won’t flatter a person; [22] for I don’t know flattery; otherwise my maker would quickly whisk me away.
