The first time you did not carry it; that is why the Lord God attacked us, because we did not ask him about the proper way to carry it.”

What is my strength, that I should wait? and what is my end, that I should prolong my life?

For we were born yesterday and do not have knowledge, since our days on earth are but a shadow.

Is it good for you to oppress, to despise the work of your hands, while you smile on the schemes of the wicked?

Who is the Almighty, that we should serve him? What would we gain if we were to pray to him?’

Is it of any special benefit to the Almighty that you should be righteous, or is it any gain to him that you make your ways blameless?

For all of them, the morning is to them like deep darkness; they are friends with the terrors of darkness.

And I have waited. But because they do not speak, because they stand there and answer no more,

Is it your opinion that God should recompense it, because you reject this? But you must choose, and not I, so tell us what you know.

Should he be informed that I want to speak? If a man speaks, surely he would be swallowed up!

Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am frail! Heal me, Lord, for my bones are shaking!

Of what importance is the human race, that you should notice them? Of what importance is mankind, that you should pay attention to them,

Do not remain far away from me, for trouble is near and I have no one to help me.

By this I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me.

Do not be afraid when a man becomes rich and his wealth multiplies!

He pronounces this blessing on himself while he is alive: “May men praise you, for you have done well!”

I will continually thank you when you execute judgment; I will rely on you, for your loyal followers know you are good.

All day long my tongue will also tell about your justice, for those who want to harm me will be embarrassed and ashamed.

Yes, in your eyes a thousand years are like yesterday that quickly passes, or like one of the divisions of the nighttime.

You will rise up and have compassion on Zion. For it is time to have mercy on her, for the appointed time has come.