Bible Strands
Job 32:7
I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite addresses Job and his three older friends immediately after explaining his hesitation to speak due to his youth. The words — The Hebrew יְדַבֵּ֑רוּ (ye.da.Be.ru) translates "let them speak," paired with יֹדִ֥יעוּ (yo.Di.'u) meaning "let them make known," which personifies years as active instructors. The thread — The assumption that age yields wisdom appears in Job 12:12 and Proverbs 16:31, while Hebrews 5:12 notes that mature believers still require foundational teaching. Why it lands — The text states that Elihu expected chronological maturity to produce insight, requiring the reader to evaluate whether human experience alone suffices for truth or if divine spirit remains essential.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained along the path of righteousness.
- Job 12:12 Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life.
- Hebrews 5:12 Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word. You need milk, not solid food!
- 1 Kings 12:6 Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How do you advise me to respond to these people?” he asked.
- Job 8:8 Please inquire of past generations and consider the discoveries of their fathers.
- Psalms 34:11 Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
- Proverbs 1:1 These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel,