[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 like 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] Behold, now that 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.