Study Desk

"Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is. Hear it, and know for yourself."

"For then it would be heavier than the sand of the seas; Therefore my words have been rash.

"For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, Their poison my spirit drinks; The terrors of God are arrayed against me.

"For the despairing man there should be kindness from his friend; So that he does not forsake the fear of the Almighty.

"The caravans of Tema looked, The travelers of Sheba hoped for them.

"They were disappointed for they had trusted, They came there and were confounded.

"Have I said, 'Give me something,' Or, 'Offer a bribe for me from your wealth,'

"You would even cast lots for the orphans And barter over your friend.

"As a slave who pants for the shade, And as a hired man who eagerly waits for his wages,

"I waste away; I will not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are but a breath.

"Why then do You not pardon my transgression And take away my iniquity? For now I will lie down in the dust; And You will seek me, but I will not be."

If you are pure and upright, Surely now He would rouse Himself for you And restore your righteous estate.

"For we are only of yesterday and know nothing, Because our days on earth are as a shadow.

"For though I were right, I could not answer; I would have to implore the mercy of my judge.

"For He bruises me with a tempest And multiplies my wounds without cause.

"For He is not a man as I am that I may answer Him, That we may go to court together.

'Is it right for You indeed to oppress, To reject the labor of Your hands, And to look favorably on the schemes of the wicked?

That You should seek for my guilt And search after my sin?

"For you have said, 'My teaching is pure, And I am innocent in your eyes.'

And show you the secrets of wisdom! For sound wisdom has two sides. Know then that God forgets a part of your iniquity.