[1] Truly, my eye has seen all this, word of it has come to my ear, and I
have knowledge of it. [2] The same things are in my mind as in yours; I am
equal to you. [3] But I would have talk with the Ruler of all, and my
desire is to have an argument with God. [4] But you put a false face on
things; all your attempts to put things right are of no value. [5] If only
you would keep quiet, it would be a sign of wisdom! [6] Give ear to the
argument of my mouth, and take note of the words of my lips. [7] Will you
say in God's name what is not right, and put false words into his mouth?
[8] Will you have respect for God's person in this cause, and put
yourselves forward as his supporters? [9] Will it be good for you to be
searched out by him, or have you the thought that he may be guided into
error like a man? [10] He will certainly put you right, if you have respect
for persons in secret. [11] Will not his glory put you in fear, so that
your hearts will be overcome before him? [12] Your wise sayings are only
dust, and your strong places are only earth. [13] Keep quiet, and let me
say what is in my mind, whatever may come to me. [14] I will take my flesh
in my teeth, and put my life in my hand. [15] Truly, he will put an end to
me; I have no hope; but I will not give way in argument before him; [16]
And that will be my salvation, for an evil-doer would not come before him,
[17] Give ear with care to my words, and keep what I say in your minds.
[18] See now, I have put my cause in order, and I am certain that I will be
seen to be right. [19] Is any one able to take up the argument against me?
If so, I would keep quiet and give up my breath. [20] Only two things do
not do to me, then I will come before your face: [21] Take your hand far
away from me; and let me not be overcome by fear of you. [22] Then at the
sound of your voice I will give answer; or let me put forward my cause for
you to give me an answer. [23] What is the number of my evil-doings and my
sins? give me knowledge of them. [24] Why is your face veiled from me, as
if I was numbered among your haters? [25] Will you be hard on a leaf in
flight before the wind? will you make a dry stem go more quickly on its
way? [26] For you put bitter things on record against me, and send
punishment on me for the sins of my early years; [27] And you put chains on
my feet, watching all my ways, and making a limit for my steps; [28] Though
a man comes to nothing like a bit of dead wood, or like a robe which has
become food for the worm.