32 So these three men stopped answering Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. 2 But Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. 3 He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.[a] 4 Now Elihu had waited before speaking to Job because they were older than he. 5 But when he saw that the three men had nothing more to say, his anger was aroused.
pay attention to everything I say.
my words are on the tip of my tongue.
my lips sincerely speak what I know.
the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
stand up and argue your case before me.
I too am a piece of clay.
nor should my hand be heavy on you.
I am clean and free from sin.
he considers me his enemy.
that he responds to no one’s words[d]?
though no one perceives it.
he will restore them to full well-being.
but I did not get what I deserved.
speak up, for I want to vindicate you.
listen to me, you men of learning.
as the tongue tastes food.
let us learn together what is good.
but God denies me justice.
who drinks scorn like water?
he associates with the wicked.
10 “So listen to me, you men of understanding.
from the Almighty to do wrong.
he brings on them what their conduct deserves.
that the Almighty would pervert justice.
13 Who appointed him over the earth?
Who put him in charge of the whole world?
and mankind would return to the dust.
17 Can someone who hates justice govern?
Will you condemn the just and mighty One?
for they are all the work of his hands?
the mighty are removed without human hand.
he sees their every step.
that they should come before him for judgment.
and sets up others in their place.
he overthrows them in the night and they are crushed.
and had no regard for any of his ways.
so that he heard the cry of the needy.
29 But if he remains silent, who can condemn him?
If he hides his face, who can see him?
from laying snares for the people.
‘I am guilty but will offend no more.
when you refuse to repent?
so tell me what you know.
for answering like a wicked man!
2 “Do you think this is just?
and to your friends with you.
gaze at the clouds so high above you.
6 If you sin, how does that affect him?
If your sins are many, what does that do to him?
and your righteousness only other people.
because of the arrogance of the wicked.
the Almighty pays no attention to it.
that there is more to be said in God’s behalf.
I will ascribe justice to my Maker.
one who has perfect knowledge is with you.
he is mighty, and firm in his purpose.
but gives the afflicted their rights.
that they have sinned arrogantly.
and commands them to repent of their evil.
even when he fetters them, they do not cry for help.
among male prostitutes of the shrines.
to the comfort of your table laden with choice food.
judgment and justice have taken hold of you.
do not let a large bribe turn you aside.
sustain you so you would not be in distress?
which you seem to prefer to affliction.
22 “God is exalted in his power.
or said to him, ‘You have done wrong’?
which people have praised in song.
mortals gaze on it from afar.
those wonders of him who has perfect knowledge?
Would anyone ask to be swallowed up?
Job 35:15 Symmachus, Theodotion and Vulgate; the meaning of the Hebrew for this word is uncertain.
Job 36:20 The meaning of the Hebrew for verses 18-20 is uncertain.
Job 37:24 Or for he does not have regard for any who think they are wise.