[1] So these three men ceased answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. [2] Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, was aroused; his wrath was aroused against Job because he justified himself rather than God. [3] His wrath was aroused also against his three friends because they had found no answer and yet had condemned Job. [4] Now Elihu had waited until Job had spoken because they were older than he. [5] When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was aroused. [6] Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite answered: "I am young, and you are very old; therefore I was afraid and dared not show you my opinion. [7] I said, 'Age should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom.' [8] But there is a spirit in man, and the breath of the Almighty gives him understanding. [9] Great men are not always wise, nor do the aged always understand judgment. [10] "Therefore I say, 'Listen to me; I will also declare my opinion.' [11] Indeed, I waited for your words; I listened to your reasons, while you searched out what to say. [12] Yes, I paid attention to you; and surely none of you convinced Job or answered his words. [13] Lest you say, 'We have found wisdom'; God will subdue him, not man. [14] Now he has not directed his words against me, so I will not answer him with your speeches. [15] "They are amazed; they answer no more; they cease speaking. [16] And I have waited, (for they did not speak, but stood still and answered no more). [17] I said, 'I also will answer my part; I too will show my opinion.' [18] For I am full of words; the spirit within me compels me. [19] See, my belly is like wine that has no vent; it is ready to burst like new wineskins. [20] I will speak, that I may be refreshed; I will open my lips and answer. [21] Let me not, I pray, show partiality to anyone, nor let me give flattering titles to man. [22] For I do not know how to give flattering titles; in so doing my Maker would soon take me away.
