The answer is: He was younger

Job 32:4

Elihu’s patience in waiting for the others to conclude their arguments before speaking is quite significant. Being the youngest of the group, he displayed a sort of respect for the older figures, possibly revering their experience and wisdom. This moment also reveals a broader theme from the Book of Job about humility and the value of listening before speaking—a worthwhile trait in any conversation!

Interestingly, Job is characterized by its poetic exchanges, showcasing varying perspectives around suffering and wisdom. Elihu appears as a counterpoint to Job’s friends, who leaned heavily on traditional wisdom and set answers to suffering. Elihu, in contrast, claims a form of divine inspiration, which highlights the duality of human understanding and the limitations of mere experience.

Echoes from Elihu's speeches can be seen throughout the wisdom literature of the Bible, which often encourages seeking knowledge and perspectives that extend beyond human reasoning. Did you know that the structure of Elihu’s discourse has parallels in contemporary discussions around finding fresh insights from a younger generation? His role sparks thought about how age does not always correlate with wisdom.

Ultimately, Elihu sets the stage for a deeper understanding of God. His humility shines through as he packages wisdom with bold proclamations. Sometimes, it’s the questions and observations of the young that shake the foundations of established beliefs—a reminder that, regardless of age, voices of critique are valuable in seeking truth.