22 verses
Elihu, a younger man, enters after Job’s friends cease speaking, declaring his divine inspiration to defend Job and challenge their silence.
After the three friends stop answering Job, Elihu’s wrath ignites. He identifies himself as young and from the kin of Ram, and explains that his anger arose because the older men failed to answer Job and had accused him instead. Elihu claims he has a spirit within him and that divine inspiration gives him wisdom beyond human age. He criticizes the notion that only age guarantees understanding, noting that great men can be foolish. Despite the silence of the other men, he insists he will speak and offers his perspective. Elihu describes his spirit as a full, wine-like force that will burst if not released, illustrating his eagerness. He concludes by warning against flattering others or giving titles, fearing divine removal if he does so.
mixed
Elihu’s tone mixes frustration, humility, and urgency.