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◄ Job 32:6►

New International Version
So Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite said: “I am young in years, and you are old; that is why I was fearful, not daring to tell you what I know.

New Living Translation
Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite said, “I am young and you are old, so I held back from telling you what I think.

English Standard Version
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said: “I am young in years, and you are aged; therefore I was timid and afraid to declare my opinion to you.

Berean Standard Bible
So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared: “I am young in years, while you are old; that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.

King James Bible
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, Iam young, and yeare very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion.

New King James Version
So Elihu, the son of Barachel the Buzite, answered and said: “Iam young in years, and youare very old; Therefore I was afraid, And dared not declare my opinion to you.

New American Standard Bible
So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite spoke out and said, “I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you what I think.

NASB 1995
So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite spoke out and said, “I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you what I think.

NASB 1977
So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite spoke out and said, “I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you what I think.

Legacy Standard Bible
So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, “I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you my knowledge.

Amplified Bible
Then Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite said, “I am young, and you are aged; For that reason I was anxious and dared not tell you what I think.

Christian Standard Bible
So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite replied: I am young in years, while you are old; therefore I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite replied: I am young in years, while you are old; therefore I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.

American Standard Version
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; Wherefore I held back, and durst not show you mine opinion.

Contemporary English Version
and he said to them: I am much younger than you, so I have shown respect by keeping silent.

English Revised Version
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; wherefore I held back, and durst not shew you mine opinion.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
So Elihu, son of Barachel, the descendant of Buz, replied [to Job], "I am young, and you are old. That's why I refrained from speaking and was afraid to tell you what I know.

Good News Translation
and began to speak. I am young, and you are old, so I was afraid to tell you what I think.

International Standard Version
Barachel's son Elihu from Buz responded and said: I'm younger than you are. Because you're older, I was terrified to tell you what I know.

NET Bible
So Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite spoke up: "I am young, but you are elderly; that is why I was fearful, and afraid to explain to you what I know.

New Heart English Bible
Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite answered, "I am young, and you are very old; Therefore I held back, and did not dare show you my opinion.

Webster's Bible Translation
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 my opinion.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared: “I am young in years, while you are old; that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.

World English Bible
Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered, “I am young, and you are very old. Therefore I held back, and didn’t dare show you my opinion.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite answers and says: “I [am] young in days, and you [are] aged; Therefore I have feared, "" And am afraid of showing you my opinion.

Young's Literal Translation
And Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite answereth and saith: -- Young I am in days, and ye are age Therefore I have feared, And am afraid of shewing you my opinion.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Elihu, the son of Barachel the Buzite will answer and say, I few for days, and ye old men; for this I was afraid, and I shall fear showing you my knowledge.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
Then Eliu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said : I am younger in days, and you are more ancient; therefore hanging down my head, I was afraid to shew you my opinion.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And so Eliu the son of Barachel the Buzite responded by saying: I am younger in years, and you are more ancient; therefore, I kept my head low, for I was afraid to reveal to you my opinion.

New American Bible
So Elihu, son of Barachel the Buzite, answered and said: I am young and you are very old; therefore I held back and was afraid to declare to you my knowledge.

New Revised Standard Version
Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite answered: “I am young in years, and you are aged; therefore I was timid and afraid to declare my opinion to you.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, Because I am younger than you in days and you are old, therefore I was afraid, and did not dare to show you my knowledge.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Elihu, son of Barakiel the Buzite answered, and he said: “Because I am lesser than you in days, and you are Elders, because of this I was afraid and I was shaken to show you my knowledge

OT Translations

JPS Tanakh 1917
And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said: I am young, and ye are very old; Wherefore I held back, and durst not declare you mine opinion.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Elius the Buzite the son of Barachiel answered and said, I am younger in age, and ye are elder, wherefore I kept silence, fearing to declare to you my own knowledge.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

Elihu Rebukes Job's Three Friends
…5But when he saw that the three men had no further reply, his anger was kindled.6So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared:“I am young in years,while you are old;that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.7I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Job 12:12
Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life.

Job 15:10
Both the gray-haired and the aged are on our side—men much older than your father.

Job 29:8
the young men saw me and withdrew, and the old men rose to their feet.

Job 30:1
“But now they mock me, men younger than I am, whose fathers I would have refused to put with my sheep dogs.

1 Timothy 4:12
Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

1 Kings 3:7
And now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in my father David’s place. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in.

Ecclesiastes 4:13
Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take a warning.

Proverbs 20:29
The glory of young men is their strength, and gray hair is the splendor of the old.

1 Corinthians 16:11
No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he can return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers.

Psalm 119:99-100
I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. / I discern more than the elders, for I obey Your precepts.

1 Peter 5:5
Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

1 Samuel 17:33
But Saul replied, “You cannot go out against this Philistine to fight him. You are just a boy, and he has been a warrior from his youth.”

Jeremiah 1:6-7
“Ah, Lord GOD,” I said, “I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!” / But the LORD told me: “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ For to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak.

Titus 2:6-7
In the same way, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. / In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity,

Proverbs 1:4
To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young,

Treasury of Scripture

And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and you are very old; why I was afraid, and dared not show you my opinion.

I am

Leviticus 19:32
Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: Iam the LORD.

Romans 13:7
Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tributeis due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

1 Timothy 5:1
Rebuke not an elder, but intreathim as a father;and the younger men as brethren;

young.

Job 15:10
With usare both the grayheaded and very aged men, much elder than thy father.

durst not.

Job 15:7
Art thou the first manthat was born? or wast thou made before the hills?

1 Samuel 17:28-30
And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle…

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Afraid Age Barachel Barakel Buzite Dare Daring Declare Durst Elihu Fear Fearful Held Kept Opinion Putting Shew Shewing Show Shy Think Wherefore Young

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Afraid Age Barachel Barakel Buzite Dare Daring Declare Durst Elihu Fear Fearful Held Kept Opinion Putting Shew Shewing Show Shy Think Wherefore Young

Job 32

1.Elihu is angry with Job and his three friends
6.Because wisdom comes not from age, he excuses the boldness of his youth
11.He reproves them for not satisfying Job
16.His zeal to speak

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared:
Elihu is introduced as the son of Barachel, a name meaning "God blesses." The mention of his lineage and being a Buzite connects him to the family of Buz, a nephew of Abraham (Genesis 22:21), suggesting a heritage linked to the broader Abrahamic tradition. This introduction sets Elihu apart from Job's three friends, indicating a fresh perspective. His declaration marks a shift in the dialogue, as he enters the conversation with a sense of authority and purpose.

I am young in years, while you are old;
Elihu acknowledges the age difference between himself and Job's friends, which is significant in the cultural context where age was associated with wisdom and authority (Leviticus 19:32). This admission shows his respect for the traditional view of wisdom but also sets the stage for his argument that wisdom is not solely dependent on age. This theme is echoed in1 Timothy 4:12, where Paul advises Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because of his youth.

that is why I was timid and afraid to tell you what I know.
Elihu's initial hesitation reflects the cultural norm of deference to elders. His fear and timidity suggest a respect for the established order, yet his decision to speak indicates a conviction that he has something valuable to contribute. This tension between respect for tradition and the courage to speak truth is a recurring biblical theme, seen in the prophets who often had to overcome fear to deliver God's message (Jeremiah 1:6-8). Elihu's boldness can be seen as a type of Christ, who also spoke with authority beyond His years (Luke 2:46-47).

Persons / Places / Events

1.Elihu
A young man who enters the dialogue in the Book of Job. He is the son of Barachel the Buzite and is characterized by his youth and boldness in speaking.

2.Barachel
The father of Elihu, identified as a Buzite, which indicates his lineage and possibly his geographical origin.

3.The Buzite
Refers to the descendants of Buz, who was a nephew of Abraham. This indicates a connection to the broader account of the Hebrew people.

4.Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, known for his suffering and the dialogues with his friends about the nature of God and justice.

5.Job's Friends
The older men who have been debating with Job about his suffering and the reasons behind it. Elihu addresses them as well.

Teaching Points

Respect for Elders and Wisdom
Elihu shows respect for the older men by initially hesitating to speak. This teaches the importance of valuing the wisdom that comes with age.

Courage to Speak Truth
Despite his youth, Elihu eventually speaks up. This encourages believers to have the courage to share their insights and convictions, even when they feel inexperienced.

God Uses All Ages
Elihu's role in the account demonstrates that God can use people of any age to convey His truth and wisdom.

Humility in Dialogue
Elihu's approach is initially humble, reminding us to engage in discussions with humility and respect for others' perspectives.

The Role of Youth in the Church
Elihu's example highlights the valuable contributions that young people can make within the church community.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Job 32:6?

2.How does Elihu's youth influence his perspective in Job 32:6?

3.What can we learn about humility from Elihu's approach in Job 32:6?

4.How does Elihu's respect for elders align with biblical teachings on authority?

5.How can we apply Elihu's patience in listening before speaking in our lives?

6.What role does wisdom play in leadership, according to Job 32:6?

7.Why does Elihu emphasize his youth in Job 32:6?

8.How does Elihu's perspective differ from Job's friends in Job 32:6?

9.What is the significance of Elihu's humility in Job 32:6?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 32?

11.Who is Elihu in the Bible?

12.Job 32:1-5 - Why does the text abruptly introduce a new character (Elihu) who wasn't mentioned before, and is this consistent with the earlier chapters?

13.Job 32:2 - Does Elihu's accusation that Job 'justified himself rather than God' conflict with God's earlier testimony that Job was blameless (Job 1:1)?

14.Job 32:6-7 - In a culture valuing elders' wisdom, is the portrayal of a younger man correcting older friends historically or culturally plausible?

What Does Job 32:6 Mean

So Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite declared:

- A formal self-introduction signals respect and accountability, akin to Samuel’s “Here I am; testify against me” (1 Samuel 12:3).

- By naming his father and clan, Elihu roots his words in covenant community, echoingNumbers 26:55 where tribal identity affirms legitimacy.

- He “declared,” not merely spoke—mirroring how prophets deliver God-given insight (Jeremiah 1:7). Scripture presents this as a genuine, Spirit-directed statement (Job 32:18).

I am young in years,

- Elihu immediately acknowledges his youth, reflecting the humility urged in1 Timothy 4:12: “Let no one despise your youth.”

- His candor honorsProverbs 20:29: “The glory of young men is their strength.” Youth is not disqualifying when submitted to God’s wisdom (Psalm 119:9).

- Job’s narrative shows God can raise unexpected voices—reminding us of David’s anointing while still a shepherd boy (1 Samuel 16:11-13).

while you are old;

- Elihu accents the elders’ dignity, aligning withLeviticus 19:32: “You shall rise before the gray head.”

- Respect for age reflects God’s order of teaching and learning (Deuteronomy 32:7). Wisdom is ordinarily associated with experience (Proverbs 16:31).

- Yet Scripture also warns that age alone is not infallible (Ecclesiastes 4:13). Elihu balances reverence and responsibility.

that is why I was timid and afraid

- His restraint models the “quick to listen, slow to speak” posture ofJames 1:19.

- Fear of speaking improperly before elders shows godly fear, not cowardice (Proverbs 1:7).

- Moses hesitated before Pharaoh (Exodus 4:10-13), illustrating that reverent hesitation can precede Spirit-empowered speech.

to tell you what I know.

- Despite hesitation, truth must be spoken—Ezekiel 33:7 makes the watchman accountable to warn.

- “What I know” signals personal conviction illuminated by the Spirit (Job 32:8: “But it is the spirit in a man… that gives him understanding”).

- Paul embraces the same duty when he declares, “I believed; therefore I have spoken” (2 Corinthians 4:13), underscoring that knowledge held in silence can become negligence (Luke 12:48).

summary

Job 32:6 presents Elihu as a young yet Spirit-moved voice who approaches venerable men with humility, reverence, and eventual boldness. His example teaches that while age deserves honor, truth sourced in God carries divine authority regardless of the speaker’s years. Respectful hesitation is commendable, but obedience demands that revealed wisdom be shared for the good of all.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(6)I am young.--The way in which Elihu comes forward is very interesting, and full of character. It gives us also a picture of the times and habits.

Pulpit Commentary

Verses 6-22. - The speech of Elihu now begins. In the present chapter, after a short apologetic exordium, excusing his youth (vers. 6-9), he addresses himself exclusively to Job's friends. He has listened attentively to them, and weighed their words (vers. 11, 12). but has found nothing in them that confuted Job. They had not "found wisdom" - they had not "vanquished Job" - at the last they had been "amazed, and had not had a word more to say" (vers. 13-16). Elihu, therefore, will supply their deficiency; he has kept silence with difficulty, and is full of thoughts, to which he would fain give utterance (vers. 17-20). In all that he says he will show no favouritism - he will "accept no man's-person," "give no flattering titles," but express sincerely what he believes (vers. 21, 22).Verse 6. -And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old. We can only guess at the exact ages of Job and his friends. From the fact that God at the last "gave Job twice as much as he had before" (Job 42:10), and the further fact that he lived, after he had recovered his prosperity, a hundred and forty years (Job 42:16), it has been conjectured that he was seventy years of age at the time of his conference with his friends, and that he died at the age of two hundred and ten. But this clearly is quite uncertain. He may not have been much more than fifty when his calamities fell upon him. If this were so, the age of his friends need not have exceeded from sixty to seventy. Perhaps Elihu was himself not more than thirty.Wherefore I was afraid, and durst not show you mine opinion; rather,I held back and was afraid to utter what I knew in your presence. Elihu would have been thought unduly pushing and presumptuous if he had ventured to come forward until his seniors had ended their colloquy.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

So Elihu
אֱלִיה֖וּא(’ĕ·lî·hū)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 453:Elihu -- 'He is (my) God', five Israelites

son
בֶן־(ḇen-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121:A son

of Barachel
בַּֽרַכְאֵ֥ל(ba·raḵ·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1292:Barachel -- 'El does bless', the father of one of Job's friends

the Buzite
הַבּוּזִ֗י(hab·bū·zî)
Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 940:Buzite -- a Buzite

declared:
וַיַּ֤עַן ׀(way·ya·‘an)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6030:To answer, respond

“I
אֲנִ֣י(’ă·nî)
Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589:I

am young
צָ֘עִ֤יר(ṣā·‘îr)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6810:Little, insignificant, young

in years,
לְ֭יָמִים(lə·yā·mîm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117:A day

while you
וְאַתֶּ֣ם(wə·’at·tem)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - second person masculine plural
Strong's 859:Thou and thee, ye and you

are old;
יְשִׁישִׁ֑ים(yə·šî·šîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 3453:An old man

that is why
עַל־(‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, against

I was timid
זָחַ֥לְתִּי(zā·ḥal·tî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 2119:To shrink back, crawl away

and afraid
וָֽאִירָ֓א ׀‪‬(wā·’î·rā)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3372:To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten

to tell you
מֵחַוֺּ֖ת(mê·ḥaw·wōṯ)
Preposition-m | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct
Strong's 2331:To live, to declare, show

what I know.
דֵּעִ֣י(dê·‘î)
Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 1843:Knowledge, opinion

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OT Poetry: Job 32:6 Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite (Jb)