Study Desk

Against justice, I am considered a liar; my wound is mortal, though I committed no crime.'

"If you have any sense, [Iyov,] hear this; listen to what I am saying.

"Are you so convinced you are right, that you say, ‘I am more just than God'?

"I am too ashamed; I have nothing to say. I lay my hand over my mouth.

I am not afraid of the tens of thousands set against me on every side.

Be gracious to me, Adonai , because I am withering away; heal me, Adonai , because my bones are shaking;

I am completely terrified; and you, Adonai — how long?

I am worn out with groaning; all night I drench my bed with tears, flooding my couch till it swims.

Pleasant places were measured out for me; I am content with my heritage.

I call on Adonai , who is worthy of praise; and I am saved from my enemies.

But I am a worm, not a man, scorned by everyone, despised by the people.

I am poured out like water; all my bones are out of joint; my heart has become like wax — it melts inside me;

Turn to me, and show me your favor; for I am alone and oppressed.

By David: Adonai , I am calling to you; my Rock, don't be deaf to my cry. For if you answer me with silence, I will be like those who fall in a pit.

I will rejoice and be glad in your grace, for you see my affliction, you know how distressed I am.

Show me favor, Adonai , for I am in trouble. My eyes grow dim with anger, my soul and body as well.

I am scorned by all my adversaries, and even more by my neighbors; even to acquaintances I am an object of fear — when they see me in the street, they turn away from me.

Brandish spear and battle-axe against my pursuers; let me hear you say, "I am your salvation."

I have been young; now I am old; yet not once have I seen the righteous abandoned or his descendants begging for bread.

I am bent down, prostrate completely; I go about mourning all day long.