[1] Everything you say, I have heard before. I understand it all; I know as much as you do. I'm not your inferior. [3] But my dispute is with God, not you; I want to argue my case with him. [4] You cover up your ignorance with lies; you are like doctors who can't heal anyone. [5] Say nothing, and someone may think you are wise! [6] Listen while I state my case. [7] Why are you lying? Do you think your lies will benefit God? [8] Are you trying to defend him? Are you going to argue his case in court? [9] If God looks at you closely, will he find anything good? Do you think you can fool God the way you fool others? [10] Even though your prejudice is hidden, he will reprimand you, [11] and his power will fill you with terror. [12] Your proverbs are as useless as ashes; your arguments are as weak as clay. [13] Be quiet and give me a chance to speak, and let the results be what they will. [14] I am ready to risk my life. [15] I've lost all hope, so what if God kills me? I am going to state my case to him. [16] It may even be that my boldness will save me, since no wicked person would dare to face God. [17] Now listen to my words of explanation. [18] I am ready to state my case, because I know I am in the right. [19] Are you coming to accuse me, God? If you do, I am ready to be silent and die. [20] Let me ask for two things; agree to them, and I will not try to hide from you: [21] stop punishing me, and don't crush me with terror. [22] Speak first, O God, and I will answer. Or let me speak, and you answer me. [23] What are my sins? What wrongs have I done? What crimes am I charged with? [24] Why do you avoid me? Why do you treat me like an enemy? [25] Are you trying to frighten me? I'm nothing but a leaf; you are attacking a piece of dry straw. [26] You bring bitter charges against me, even for what I did when I was young. [27] You bind chains on my feet; you watch every step I take, and even examine my footprints. [28] As a result, I crumble like rotten wood, like a moth-eaten coat.
