Job 32 WBT
Summary: The narrator introduces a new character, Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite, who has been listening silently because he is younger than the others, but grows angry both at Job for justifying himself over God and at the three friends for condemning Job without being able to answer him convincingly. Elihu explains that he waited respectfully for age to speak first, but concludes that wisdom comes from the spirit of the Almighty in a person rather than simply from age, and that he is now compelled to speak since the older men have run out of arguments. He describes himself as full of words and pressured internally like unvented wine or new wineskins ready to burst, promising to speak honestly and without flattery toward anyone.
1So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he [was] righteous in his own eyes.
2Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.
3Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and [yet] had condemned Job.
4Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken because they [were] older than he.
5When Elihu saw that [there was] no answer in the mouth of [these] three men, then his wrath was kindled.
6And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I [am] young, and ye [are] very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not show you my opinion.
7I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom.
8But [there is] a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.
9Great men are not [always] wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.
10Therefore I said, Hearken to me; I also will show my opinion.
11Behold, I waited for your words; I gave ear to your reasons, whilst ye searched out what to say.
12Yes, I attended to you, and behold, [there was] none of you that convinced Job, [or] that answered his words:
13Lest ye should say, We have found out wisdom: God thrusteth him down, not man.
14Now he hath not directed [his] words against me: neither will I answer him with your speeches.
15They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking.
16When I had waited, (for they spoke not, but stood still, [and] answered no more;)
17[I said], I will answer also my part, I also will show my opinion.
18For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me.
19Behold, my belly [is] as wine [which] hath no vent; it is ready to burst like new bottles.
20I will speak, that I may be refreshed: I will open my lips and answer.
21Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles to man.
22For I know not to give flattering titles; [in so doing], my Maker would soon take me away.
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