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