1
"My eyes have seen all this, my ears have heard and understood it.
2
What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you.
3
But I desire to speak to the Almighty and argue my case with God.
4
You, however, smear me with lies; you are worthless physicians, all of you!;
5
If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.
6
Hear now my argument; listen to te plea of my lips.
7
Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf?
Will you speak deceitfully for him?
8
Will you showhim partiality?
Will you argue the case for God?
9
Would it turn out well if he examined you?
Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?
10
He would surely rebuke you if you secretly showed partiality.
11
Would not his splendor terrify you?
Would not te dread of him fall on you?
12
Your maxims are proverbs of ashes;
your defenses are defenses of clay.
13
"Keep sient andlet me speak; then let come to me what may.
14
Why di I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?
15
Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him;
I will surely defend my ways to his face.
16
Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance,
for no godless man would dare come before him!
17
Listen carefully to my words; let your ears take in what I say.
18
Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated.
19
Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent anddie.
20
"Only grant me these two things, O God, and then I will not hide from you:
21
Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.
22
He summon memand I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply.
23
How many wrongs and sins have I committed! Show me my offense and my sin.
24
Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy?
25
Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after my chaff?
26
For you write down bitter things against me
and make me inherit the sins of my youth.
27
Tou fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on my paths
by putting marks on the soles of my feet.
28
"So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.