Then all the nations will ask, “Why has the Lord done all this to this land? What is this fierce, heated display of anger all about?”

I will establish his kingdom permanently, if he remains committed to obeying my commands and regulations, as you are doing this day.’

Yet all of this fails to satisfy me so long as I have to see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate.”

“But if I speak, my pain is not relieved, and if I refrain from speaking – how much of it goes away?

and he contends with God on behalf of man as a man pleads for his friend.

‘Surely such is the residence of an evil man; and this is the place of one who has not known God.’”

Their houses are safe and without fear; and no rod of punishment from God is upon them.

“Why are times not appointed by the Almighty? Why do those who know him not see his days?

He locks the waters in his clouds, and the clouds do not burst with the weight of them.

He goes to bed wealthy, but will do so no more. When he opens his eyes, it is all gone.

Be careful that no one entices you with riches; do not let a large bribe turn you aside.

“Are you acquainted with the way the mountain goats give birth? Do you watch as the wild deer give birth to their young?

In excitement and impatience it consumes the ground; it cannot stand still when the trumpet is blown.

“Is it by your understanding that the hawk soars, and spreads its wings toward the south?

A horse disappoints those who trust in it for victory; despite its great strength, it cannot deliver.

Wealthy people do not understand; they are like animals that perish.

Come and witness God’s exploits! His acts on behalf of people are awesome!

How blessed are those who promote justice, and do what is right all the time!

The ransom of a person’s life is his wealth, but the poor person hears no threat.

The scorner seeks wisdom but finds none, but understanding is easy for a discerning person.