Elihu's Intrusion

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.