Capítulo 13

1 - "My eyes have seen all this, my ears have heard and understood it.

2 - What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you.

3 - But I desire to speak to the Almighty and to argue my case with God.

4 - You, however, smear me with lies; you are worthless physicians, all of you!

5 - If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.

6 - Hear now my argument; listen to the pleas of my lips.

7 - Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for him?

8 - Will you show him partiality? Will you argue the case for God?

9 - Would it turn out well if he examined you? Could you deceive him as you might deceive a mortal?

10 - He would surely call you to account if you secretly showed partiality.

11 - Would not his splendor terrify you? Would not the dread of him fall on you?

12 - Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay.

13 - "Keep silent and let me speak; then let come to me what may.

14 - Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?

15 - Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely Or [He will surely slay me; I have no hope - / yet I will] defend my ways to his face.

16 - Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless person would dare come before him!

17 - Listen carefully to what I say; let my words ring in your ears.

18 - Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated.

19 - Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die.

20 - "Only grant me these two things, God, and then I will not hide from you:

21 - Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.

22 - Then summon me and I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply to me.

23 - How many wrongs and sins have I committed? Show me my offense and my sin.

24 - Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy?

25 - Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after dry chaff?

26 - For you write down bitter things against me and make me reap the sins of my youth.

27 - You fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet.

28 - "So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.