Dual Panel1SO THESE three men ceased to answer Job, because he was [rigidly] righteous (upright and in right standing with God) in his own eyes. [But there was a fifth man there also.]
2Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became indignant. His indignation was kindled against Job because he justified himself rather than God [even made himself out to be better than God].
3Also against [Job's] three friends was [Elihu's] anger kindled, because they had found no answer [were unable to show his real error], and yet they had declared him to be in the wrong [and responsible for his own afflictions].
4Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were older than he.
5But when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouths of these three men, he became angry.
6Then Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite said, I am young, and you are aged; for that reason I was timid {and} restrained and dared not declare my opinion to you.
7I said, Age should speak, and a multitude of years should teach wisdom [so let it be heard].
8But there is [a vital force] a spirit [of intelligence] in man, and the breath of the Almighty gives men understanding.
9It is not the great [necessarily] who are wise, nor [always] the aged who understand justice.
10So I say, Listen to me; I also will give you my opinion [about Job's situation] {and} my knowledge.
11You see, I waited for your words, I listened to your wise reasons, while you searched out what to say.
12Yes, I paid attention to what you said, and behold, not one of you convinced Job or made [satisfactory] replies to his words [you could not refute him].
13Beware lest you say, We have found wisdom; God thrusts [Job] down [justly], not man [God alone is dealing with him].
14Now [Job] has not directed his words against me [therefore I have no cause for irritation], neither will I answer him with speeches like yours. [I speak for truth, not for revenge.]
15[Job's friends] are amazed {and} embarrassed, they answer no more; they have not a thing to say [reports Elihu].
16And shall I wait, because they say nothing but stand still and answer no more?
17I also will answer my [God-assigned] part; I also will declare my opinion {and} my knowledge.
18For I am full of words; the spirit within me constrains me.
19My breast is as wine that has no vent; like new wineskins, it is ready to burst.
20I must speak, that I may get relief {and} be refreshed; I will open my lips and answer.
21I will not [I warn you] be influenced by respect for any man's person {and} show partiality, neither will I flatter any man.
22For I know not how to flatter, [wasting my time in mere formalities, for then] my Maker would soon take me away.