"My eyes have seen all this, my ears have heard and understood it.
What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you.
But I desire to speak to the Almighty and to argue my case with God.
You, however, smear me with lies; you are worthless physicians, all of you!
If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.
Hear now my argument; listen to the pleas of my lips.
Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for him?
Will you show him partiality? Will you argue the case for God?
Would it turn out well if he examined you? Could you deceive him as you might deceive a mortal?
He would surely call you to account if you secretly showed partiality.
Would not his splendor terrify you? Would not the dread of him fall on you?
Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay.
"Keep silent and let me speak; then let come to me what may.
Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?
Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely <n>Or [He will surely slay me; I have no hope - / yet I will]</n> defend my ways to his face.
Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless person would dare come before him!
Listen carefully to what I say; let my words ring in your ears.
Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated.
Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die.
"Only grant me these two things, God, and then I will not hide from you:
— Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.
Then summon me and I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply to me.
How many wrongs and sins have I committed? Show me my offense and my sin.
Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy?
Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after dry chaff?
For you write down bitter things against me and make me reap the sins of my youth.
You fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet.
"So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.