1. So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes.
2. Then was kindled the anger of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his anger kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.
3. Also against his three friends was his anger kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.
4. Now Elihu had waited till 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 anger was kindled.
6. And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and you are very old; therefore I was afraid, and did not venture to make known to you my 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 gives them understanding.
9. Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.
10. Therefore I said, Listen to me; I also will reveal my opinion.
11. Behold, I waited for your words; I gave ear to your reasons, while you searched out what to say.
12. Yea, I observed you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job, or that answered his words:
13. For otherwise you might have said, We have found out wisdom: God thrusts him down, not man.
14. Now he has 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 did not speak, but stood still, and answered no more;)
17. I said, I will answer also my part, I also will declare my opinion.
18. For I am full of thoughts; the spirit within me impels me.
19. Behold, my belly is as wine which has no outlet; 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, favor any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles to man.
22. For I know that I should not give flattering titles; in so doing my maker would soon take me away.
|