2 “If only my grief could be weighed and placed with my calamity on the scales. | TOSK |
3 For then it would outweigh the sand of the seas—no wonder my words have been rash. | TOSK |
4 For the arrows of the Almighty have pierced me; my spirit drinks in their poison; the terrors of God are arrayed against me. | TOSK |
5 Does a wild donkey bray over fresh grass, or an ox low over its fodder? | TOSK |
6 Is tasteless food eaten without salt, or is there flavor in the white of an egg? | TOSK |
7 My soul refuses to touch them; they are loathsome food to me. | TOSK |
8 If only my request were granted and God would fulfill my hope: | TOSK |
9 that God would be willing to crush me, to unleash His hand and cut me off! | TOSK |
10 It still brings me comfort, and joy through unrelenting pain, that I have not denied the words of the Holy One. | IP | TOSK |
11 What strength do I have, that I should still hope? What is my future, that I should be patient? | TOSK |
12 Is my strength like that of stone, or my flesh made of bronze? | TOSK |
13 Is there any help within me now that success is driven from me? | TOSK |
14 A despairing man should have the kindness of his friend, even if he forsakes the fear of the Almighty. | TOSK |
15 But my brothers are as faithless as wadis, as seasonal streams that overflow, | TOSK |
16 darkened because of the ice and the inflow of melting snow, | TOSK |
17 but ceasing in the dry season and vanishing from their channels in the heat. | TOSK |
18 Caravans turn aside from their routes; they go into the wasteland and perish. | TOSK |
19 The caravans of Tema look for water; the travelers of Sheba hope to find it. | TOSK |
20 They are confounded because they had hoped; their arrival brings disappointment. | TOSK |
21 For now you are of no help; you see terror, and you are afraid. | TOSK |
22 Have I ever said, ‘Give me something; offer me a bribe from your wealth; | TOSK |
23 deliver me from the hand of the enemy; redeem me from the grasp of the ruthless’? | TOSK |
24 Teach me, and I will be silent. Help me understand how I have erred. | TOSK |
25 How painful are honest words! But what does your argument prove? | TOSK |
26 Do you intend to correct my words, and treat as wind my cry of despair? | TOSK |
27 You would even cast lots for an orphan and barter away your friend. | TOSK |
28 But now, please look at me. Would I lie to your face? | TOSK |
29 Reconsider; do not be unjust. Reconsider, for my righteousness is at stake. | TOSK |
30 Is there iniquity on my tongue? Can my mouth not discern malice? | TOSK |