Job 32

32:1

So these three men stopped answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes.

32:2

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,

32:3

and he burned with anger against Job’s three friends because they had failed to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.

32:4

Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were older than he.

32:5

But when he saw that the three men had no further reply, his anger was kindled.

32:6

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.

32:7

I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.

32:8

But there is a spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding.

32:9

It is not only the old who are wise, or the elderly who understand justice.

32:10

Therefore I say, ‘Listen to me; I too will declare what I know.’

32:11

Indeed, I waited while you spoke; I listened to your reasoning; as you searched for words,

32:12

I paid you full attention. But no one proved Job wrong; not one of you rebutted his arguments.

32:13

So do not claim, ‘We have found wisdom; let God, not man, refute him.’

32:14

But Job has not directed his words against me, and I will not answer him with your arguments.

32:15

Job’s friends are dismayed, with no more to say; words have escaped them.

32:16

Must I wait, now that they are silent, now that they stand and no longer reply?

32:17

I too will answer; yes, I will declare what I know.

32:18

For I am full of words, and my spirit within me compels me.

32:19

Behold, my belly is like unvented wine; it is about to burst like a new wineskin.

32:20

I must speak and find relief; I must open my lips and respond.

32:21

I will be partial to no one, nor will I flatter any man.

32:22

For I do not know how to flatter, or my Maker would remove me in an instant.