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with kings and counselors of the earth who rebuilt ruins for themselves,

who long for death, but it comes not, and dig for it more than for hidden treasures,

For my sighing comes instead of my bread, and my groanings are poured out like water.

For the thing that I fear comes upon me, and what I dread befalls me.

The strong lion perishes for lack of prey, and the cubs of the lioness are scattered.

For affliction does not come from the dust, nor does trouble sprout from the ground,

"As for me, I would seek God, and to God would I commit my cause,

For he wounds, but he binds up; he shatters, but his hands heal.

For you shall be in league with the stones of the field, and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you.

Behold, this we have searched out; it is true. Hear, and know it for your good."

For then it would be heavier than the sand of the sea; therefore my words have been rash.

For the arrows of the Almighty are in me; my spirit drinks their poison; the terrors of God are arrayed against me.

This would be my comfort; I would even exult in pain unsparing, for I have not denied the words of the Holy One.

For you have now become nothing; you see my calamity and are afraid.

Have I said, ‘Make me a gift'? Or, ‘From your wealth offer a bribe for me'?

"But now, be pleased to look at me, for I will not lie to your face.

Like a slave who longs for the shadow, and like a hired hand who looks for his wages,

I loathe my life; I would not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are a breath.

Why do you not pardon my transgression and take away my iniquity? For now I shall lie in the earth; you will seek me, but I shall not be."

If you will seek God and plead with the Almighty for mercy,