Job's reply

1Then Job answered:

2“Today also my complaint is bitter,23.2 Syr Vg Tg: Heb rebellious

his23.2 Gk Syr: Heb my hand is heavy in spite of my groaning.

3Oh, that I knew where I might find him,

that I might come even to his seat!

4I would lay my case before him

and fill my mouth with arguments.

5I would learn what he would answer me,

and understand what he would say to me.

6Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power?

No; he would give heed to me.

7There an upright man could reason with him,

and I should be acquitted for ever by my judge.

8“Behold, I go forward, but he is not there;

and backward, but I cannot perceive him;

9on the left hand I seek him,23.9 Compare Syr: Heb on the left hand when he works but I cannot behold him;

I23.9 Syr Vg: Heb he turn to the right hand, but I cannot see him.

10But he knows the way that I take;

when he has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

11My foot has held fast to his steps;

I have kept his way and have not turned aside.

12I have not departed from the commandment of his lips;

I have treasured in23.12 Gk Vg: Heb from my bosom the words of his mouth.

13But he is unchangeable and who can turn him?

What he desires, that he does.

14For he will complete what he appoints for me;

and many such things are in his mind.

15Therefore I am terrified at his presence;

when I consider, I am in dread of him.

16God has made my heart faint;

the Almighty has terrified me;

17for I am23.17 With one Ms: Heb am not hemmed in by darkness,

and thick darkness covers my face.23.17 Vg: Heb from my face