The answer is: He was younger

Job 32:4

In the Book of Job, Elihu's hesitance to speak until the older friends finished showcases a deep respect for age and experience. You see, in ancient culture, the Elders were often regarded as the keepers of wisdom. Though Elihu believed he had valuable insights, he waited patiently, perhaps eager to avoid the kind of brashness we often encounter in conversations today. It’s a classic case of “hold on, let the wise folks weigh in first.”

Now, let’s take a delve into Elihu’s unique approach to communication. Unlike Job's three friends, who offer grounded but ultimately flawed advice, Elihu brings a fresh perspective. Testifying as both an interpreter and a mediator, he emphasizes divine authority and justice. Interestingly, he twice mentions that he is “young in years” while still being “full of words” (Job 32:6). It’s a delightful balance of humility and determination to share knowledge.

Elihu not only diagnoses Job's plight but also increases the narrative tension with his impassioned plea that suffering may carry a divine purpose. His emphasis on the need for dialogue rather than accusations characterizes a nuanced approach we could all learn from in our conversations today. To top it off, Elihu's speeches set the stage for God's direct encounter with Job—reminding us that wisdom often arrives from unexpected sources, reinforcing a theme that resonates throughout scripture: the notion that revelation can come from the most unlikely places.