[1] Then Zophar the Naamathite made answer and said, [2] Are all these
words to go unanswered? and is a man seen to be right because he is full of
talk? [3] Are your words of pride to make men keep quiet? and are you to
make sport, with no one to put you to shame? [4] You may say, My way is
clean, and I am free from sin in your eyes. [5] But if only God would take
up the word, opening his lips in argument with you; [6] And would make
clear to you the secrets of wisdom, and the wonders of his purpose! [7] Are
you able to take God's measure, to make discovery of the limits of the
Ruler of all? [8] They are higher than heaven; what is there for you to do?
deeper than the underworld, and outside your knowledge; [9] Longer in
measure than the earth, and wider than the sea. [10] If he goes on his way,
shutting a man up and putting him to death, who may make him go back from
his purpose? [11] For in his eyes men are as nothing; he sees evil and
takes note of it. [12] And so a hollow-minded man will get wisdom, when a
young ass of the field gets teaching. [13] But if you put your heart right,
stretching out your hands to him; [14] If you put far away the evil of your
hands, and let no wrongdoing have a place in your tent; [15] Then truly
your face will be lifted up, with no mark of sin, and you will be fixed in
your place without fear: [16] For your sorrow will go from your memory,
like waters flowing away: [17] And your life will be brighter than day;
though it is dark, it will become like the morning. [18] And you will be
safe because there is hope; after looking round, you will take your rest in
quiet; [19] Sleeping with no fear of danger; and men will be desiring to
have grace in your eyes; [20] But the eyes of the evil-doers will be
wasting away; their way of flight is gone, and their only hope is the
taking of their last breath.