Study Desk

Let that day's morning stars never appear; let it wait for daylight that never comes. Don't let it see the first light of dawn,

with kings and wise men of the earth who built places for themselves that are now ruined.

In the grave there is rest for the captives who no longer hear the shout of the slave driver.

They want to die, but death does not come. They search for death more than for hidden treasure.

God does not trust his angels; he blames them for mistakes.

"How I wish that I might have what I ask for and that God would give me what I hope for.

"I do not have the strength to wait. There is nothing to hope for, so why should I be patient?

The groups of travelers from Tema look for water, and the traders of Sheba look hopefully.

You would even gamble for orphans and would trade away your friend.

They are like a slave wishing for the evening shadows, like a laborer waiting to be paid.

Those who see me now will see me no more; you will look for me, but I will be gone.

If I have sinned, what have I done to you, you watcher of humans? Why have you made me your target? Have I become a heavy load for you?

Why don't you pardon my wrongs and forgive my sins? I will soon lie down in the dust of death. Then you will search for me, but I will be no more."

Your children sinned against God, and he punished them for their sins.

But you should ask God for help and pray to the Almighty for mercy.

If you are good and honest, he will stand up for you and bring you back where you belong.

They wrap their roots around a pile of rocks and look for a place among the stones.

Even if I were right, I could not answer him; I could only beg God, my Judge, for mercy.

He would crush me with a storm and multiply my wounds for no reason.

I have already been found guilty, so why should I struggle for no reason?