For now you have become like these streams that are no help; you see a terror, and are afraid.

“Have I ever said, ‘Give me something, and from your fortune make gifts in my favor’?

Am I the sea, or the creature of the deep, that you must put me under guard?

If I say, “My bed will comfort me, my couch will ease my complaint,”

“For inquire now of the former generation, and pay attention to the findings of their ancestors;

“How much less, then, can I answer him and choose my words to argue with him!

If I summoned him, and he answered me, I would not believe that he would be listening to my voice –

He does not allow me to recover my breath, for he fills me with bitterness.

I dread all my sufferings, for I know that you do not hold me blameless.

For he is not a human being like I am, that I might answer him, that we might come together in judgment.

Then would I speak and not fear him, but it is not so with me.

although you know that I am not guilty, and that there is no one who can deliver out of your hand?

Remember that you have made me as with the clay; will you return me to dust?

“But these things you have concealed in your heart; I know that this is with you:

For you will forget your trouble; you will remember it like water that has flowed away.

And you will be secure, because there is hope; you will be protected and will take your rest in safety.

“Without a doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you.

See now, I have prepared my case; I know that I am right.

Who will contend with me? If anyone can, I will be silent and die.

For you write down bitter things against me and cause me to inherit the sins of my youth.