9 Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.

Other Translations of Job 32:9

New International Version

9 It is not only the oldOr "many" ; or "great" who are wise, not only the aged who understand what is right.

English Standard Version

9 It is not the oldHebrew many [in years] who are wise, nor the aged who understand what is right.

The Message

9 The experts have no corner on wisdom; getting old doesn't guarantee good sense.

New King James Version

9 Great men are not always wise, Nor do the aged always understand justice.

New Living Translation

9 Sometimes the elders are not wise. Sometimes the aged do not understand justice.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 32:9

Commentary on Job 32:6-14

(Read Job 32:6-14)

Elihu professes to speak by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and corrects both parties. He allowed that those who had the longest experience should speak first. But God gives wisdom as he pleases; this encouraged him to state his opinion. By attention to the word of God, and dependence upon the Holy Spirit, young men may become wiser than the aged; but this wisdom will render them swift to hear, slow to speak, and disposed to give others a patient hearing.