[1] “Indeed, my eyes have seen all this; my ears have heard and understood. [2] What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you. [3] Yet I desire to speak to the Almighty and argue my case before God. [4] You, however, smear with lies; you are all worthless physicians. [5] If only you would remain silent; for that would be your wisdom! [6] Hear now my argument, and listen to the plea of my lips. [7] Will you speak wickedly on God’s behalf or speak deceitfully for Him? [8] Would you show Him partiality or argue in His defense? [9] Would it be well when He examined you? Could you deceive Him as you would deceive a man? [10] Surely He would rebuke you if you secretly showed partiality. [11] Would His majesty not terrify you? Would the dread of Him not fall upon you? [12] Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay. [13] Be silent, and I will speak. Then let come to me what may. [14] Why do I put myself at risk and take my life in my own hands? [15] Though He slay me, I will hope in Him. I will still defend my ways to His face. [16] Moreover, this will be my salvation, for no godless man can appear before Him. [17] Listen carefully to my words; let my declaration ring in your ears. [18] See now, I have prepared my case; I know that I will be vindicated. [19] Can anyone indict me? If so, I will be silent and die. [20] Only grant these two things to me, so that I need not hide from You: [21] Withdraw Your hand from me, and do not let Your terror frighten me. [22] Then call me, and I will answer, or let me speak, and You can reply. [23] How many are my iniquities and sins? Reveal to me my transgression and sin. [24] Why do You hide Your face and consider me as Your enemy? [25] Would You frighten a windblown leaf? Would You chase after dry chaff? [26] For You record bitter accusations against me and bequeath to me the iniquities of my youth. [27] You put my feet in the stocks and stand watch over all my paths; You set a limit for the soles of my feet. [28] So man wastes away like something rotten, like a moth-eaten garment.[’’]
