Job 32 AMPC

1. SO 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.]

2. Elihu 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].

3. Also 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].

4. Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were older than he.

5. But when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouths of these three men, he became angry.

6. Then 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.

7. I said, Age should speak, and a multitude of years should teach wisdom [so let it be heard].

8. But there is [a vital force] a spirit [of intelligence] in man, and the breath of the Almighty gives men understanding. [Prov. 2:6.]

9. It is not the great [necessarily] who are wise, nor [always] the aged who understand justice.

10. So I say, Listen to me; I also will give you my opinion [about Job's situation] and my knowledge.

11. You see, I waited for your words, I listened to your wise reasons, while you searched out what to say.

12. Yes, 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].

13. Beware lest you say, We have found wisdom; God thrusts [Job] down [justly], not man [God alone is dealing with him].

14. Now [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].

16. And shall I wait, because they say nothing but stand still and answer no more?

17. I also will answer my [God-assigned] part; I also will declare my opinion and my knowledge.

18. For I am full of words; the spirit within me constrains me.

19. My breast is as wine that has no vent; like new wineskins, it is ready to burst.

20. I must speak, that I may get relief and be refreshed; I will open my lips and answer.

21. I will not [I warn you] be influenced by respect for any man's person and show partiality, neither will I flatter any man.

22. For I know not how to flatter, [wasting my time in mere formalities, for then] my Maker would soon take me away.