| 1 | Then Zophar, the Naamathite, answered, |
| 2 | 'Shouldn't the multitude of words be answered? Should a man full of talk be justified? |
| 3 | Should your boastings make men hold their peace? When you mock, shall no man make you ashamed? |
| 4 | For you say, 'My doctrine is pure, I am clean in your eyes.' |
| 5 | But oh that God would speak, And open his lips against you, |
| 6 | That he would show you the secrets of wisdom! For true wisdom has two sides. Know therefore that God exacts of you less than your iniquity deserves. |
| 7 | 'Can you fathom the mystery of God? Or can you probe the limits of the Almighty? |
| 8 | They are high as heaven. What can you do? Deeper than Sheol: what can you know? |
| 9 | The measure of it is longer than the earth, And broader than the sea. |
| 10 | If he passes by, or confines, Or convenes a court, then who can oppose him? |
| 11 | For he knows false men. He sees iniquity also, even though he doesn't consider it. |
| 12 | But vain man can become wise If a man can be born as a wild donkey's colt. |
| 13 | 'If you set your heart aright, Stretch out your hands toward him. |
| 14 | If iniquity is in your hand, put it far away, Don't let unrighteousness dwell in your tents. |
| 15 | Surely then shall you lift up your face without spot; Yes, you shall be steadfast, and shall not fear: |
| 16 | For you shall forget your misery; You shall remember it as waters that are passed away, |
| 17 | Life shall be clearer than the noonday; Though there is darkness, it shall be as the morning. |
| 18 | You shall be secure, because there is hope; Yes, you shall search, and shall take your rest in safety. |
| 19 | Also you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid; Yes, many shall court your favor. |
| 20 | But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, They shall have no way to flee; Their hope shall be the giving up of the spirit.' |