1 | So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. |
2 | Then 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. |
3 | Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. |
4 | Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he. |
5 | When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was kindled. |
6 | And 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 shew you mine opinion. |
7 | I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom. |
8 | But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. |
9 | Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment. |
10 | Therefore I said, Hearken to me; I also will shew mine opinion. |
11 | Behold, I waited for your words; I gave ear to your reasons, whilst ye searched out what to say. |
12 | Yea, I attended unto you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job, or that answered his words: |
13 | Lest ye should say, We have found out wisdom: God thrusteth him down, not man. |
14 | Now he hath not directed his words against me: neither will I answer him with your speeches. |
15 | They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking. |
16 | When I had waited, (for they spake not, but stood still, and answered no more;) |
17 | I said, I will answer also my part, I also will shew mine opinion. |
18 | For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me. |
19 | Behold, my belly is as wine which hath no vent; it is ready to burst like new bottles. |
20 | I will speak, that I may be refreshed: I will open my lips and answer. |
21 | Let me not, I pray you, accept any man’s person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man. |
22 | For I know not to give flattering titles; in so doing my maker would soon take me away. |