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For he crushes me with a tempest, and multiplies my wounds without cause;

I become afraid of all my suffering, for I know thou wilt not hold me innocent.

For he is not a man, as I am, that I might answer him, that we should come to trial together.

Then I would speak without fear of him, for I am not so in myself.

that thou dost seek out my iniquity and search for my sin,

If I am wicked, woe to me! If I am righteous, I cannot lift up my head, for I am filled with disgrace and look upon my affliction.

For you say, 'My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in God's eyes.'

and that he would tell you the secrets of wisdom! For he is manifold in understanding. Know then that God exacts of you less than your guilt deserves.

For he knows worthless men; when he sees iniquity, will he not consider it?

In the thought of one who is at ease there is contempt for misfortune; it is ready for those whose feet slip.

As for you, you whitewash with lies; worthless physicians are you all.

Will you speak falsely for God, and speak deceitfully for him?

Will you show partiality toward him, will you plead the case for God?

Who is there that will contend with me? For then I would be silent and die.

For thou writest bitter things against me, and makest me inherit the iniquities of my youth.

"For there is hope for a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease.

Thou wouldest call, and I would answer thee; thou wouldest long for the work of thy hands.

For then thou wouldest number my steps, thou wouldest not keep watch over my sin;

Thou prevailest for ever against him, and he passes; thou changest his countenance, and sendest him away.

He feels only the pain of his own body, and he mourns only for himself."