1 So had these three men abstained from answering Job; because he was righteous in his own eyes. 2 Thereupon was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he had declared himself more righteous than God. 3 And against his three friends was his wrath kindled; because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. 4 Now Elihu had held back toward Job [his] words; because the others were older in days than he. 5 But when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then was his wrath kindled. 6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite commenced, and said, Young am I in days, and ye are very old: therefore I hesitated and feared to show you what I know. 7 I had said, Days shall speak, and multitude of years shall make wisdom known. 8 But it is the spirit in man, and the breath of the Almighty which giveth them understanding. 9 Not those rich in years must be always wise: neither do the aged constantly understand what is just. 10 Therefore do I say, Hearken to me: I also will show forth what I know myself. 11 Behold, I waited for your words: I gave an attentive ear to your reasonings, till you might have searched out the [proper] words. 12 And now I understand you fully, and, behold, there is none that convinceth Job, or, that answereth his speeches among you. 13 Say then not, We have found wisdom: God will thrust him down, not man. 14 But he hath not directed any words against me: and with your speeches will I not answer him. 15 They are dismayed, they answer no more: words have escaped away from them. 16 And should I wait [longer], because they cannot speak, because they stand stilt and answer no more? 17 [But] I also will surely answer my part, I myself also will show forth what I know; 18 For I am full of words, the spirit in my bosom urgeth me hard. 19 Behold, my bosom is like [fresh] wine which hath not been opened: like new bottles it is ready to burst. 20 I will speak, that I may breathe freer: I will open my lips and answer. 21 On no account will I show undue favor to any man, and to no son of earth will I give flattering titles. 22 For I know not to give flattering titles; [for else] my Maker would speedily carry me away.

<- Job 31Job 33 ->