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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.
* 32:1 to…: Heb. from answering † 32:2 himself: Heb. his soul ‡ 32:4 waited…: Heb. expected Job in words § 32:4 elder: Heb. elder for days ** 32:6 young: Heb. few of days †† 32:6 durst…: Heb. feared ‡‡ 32:11 reasons: Heb. understandings §§ 32:11 what…: Heb. words *** 32:14 directed: or, ordered ††† 32:15 left…: Heb. removed speeches from themselves ‡‡‡ 32:18 matter: Heb. words §§§ 32:18 spirit…: Heb. spirit of my belly * 32:19 hath…: Heb. is not opened † 32:20 be…: Heb. breathe