[1] Then Bildad the Shuhite replied: [2] “How long will you go on saying such things? The words of your mouth are a blustering wind. [3] Does God pervert justice? Does the Almighty pervert what is right? [4] When your children sinned against Him, He gave them over to their rebellion. [5] But if you would earnestly seek God and ask the Almighty for mercy, [6] if you are pure and upright, even now He will rouse Himself on your behalf and restore your righteous estate. [7] Though your beginnings were modest, your latter days will flourish. [8] Please inquire of past generations and consider the discoveries of their fathers. [9] For we were born yesterday and know nothing; our days on earth are but a shadow. [10] Will they not teach you and tell you, and speak from their understanding? [11] Does papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Do reeds flourish without water? [12] While the shoots are still uncut, they dry up more quickly than grass. [13] Such is the destiny of all who forget God; so the hope of the godless will perish. [14] His confidence is fragile; his security is in a spider’s web. [15] He leans on his web, but it gives way; he holds fast, but it does not endure. [16] He is a well-watered plant in the sunshine, spreading its shoots over the garden. [17] His roots wrap around the rock heap; he looks for a home among the stones. [18] If he is uprooted from his place, it will disown him, saying, ‘ I never saw you.’ [19] Surely this is the joy of his way; yet others will spring from the dust. [20] Behold, God does not reject the blameless, nor will He strengthen the hand of evildoers. [21] He will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with a shout of joy. [22] Your enemies will be clothed in shame, and the tent of the wicked will be no more.”
