Chapter 32

Elihu is angry with Job and his friends, He proclaims his right to speak


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 show 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 show 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 show 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.