[1] These three men stopped trying to answer Job, because he was so sure he was right. [2] But Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite, from the family of Ram, became very angry with Job, because Job claimed he was right instead of God. [3] Elihu was also angry with Job's three friends who had no answer to show that Job was wrong, yet continued to blame him. [4] Elihu had waited before speaking to Job, because the three friends were older than he was. [5] But when Elihu saw that the three men had nothing more to say, he became very angry. [6] So Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite said this: "I am young, and you are old. That is why I was afraid to tell you what I know. [7] I thought, 'Older people should speak, and those who have lived many years should teach wisdom.' [8] But it is the spirit in a person, the breath of the Almighty, that gives understanding. [9] It is not just older people who are wise; they are not the only ones who understand what is right. [10] So I say, listen to me. I too will tell you what I know. [11] I waited while you three spoke, and listened to your explanations. While you looked for words to use, [12] I paid close attention to you. But not one of you has proved Job wrong; none of you has answered his arguments. [13] Don't say, 'We have found wisdom; only God will show Job to be wrong, not people.' [14] Job has not spoken his words against me, so I will not use your arguments to answer Job. [15] "These three friends are defeated and have no more to say; words have failed them. [16] Now they are standing there with no answers for Job. Now that they are quiet, must I wait to speak? [17] No, I too will speak and tell what I know. [18] I am full of words, and the spirit in me causes me to speak. [19] I am like wine that has been bottled up; I am ready to burst like a new leather wine bag. [20] I must speak so I will feel relief; I must open my mouth and answer. [21] I will be fair to everyone and not flatter anyone. [22] I don't know how to flatter, and if I did, my Maker would quickly take me away.
