How much less shall I answer him, [and] choose out my words [to reason] with him?
Whom, though I were righteous, [yet] would I not answer, [but] I would make supplication to my judge.
If I had called, and he had answered me; [yet] would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.
For he breaketh me with a tempest, and multiplieth my wounds without cause.
He will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with bitterness.
If [I speak] of strength, lo, [he is] strong: and if of judgment, who shall set me a time [to plead]?
If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: [if I say], I [am] perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.
[Though] I [were] perfect, [yet] would I not know my soul: I would despise my life.
This [is] one [thing], therefore I said [it], He destroyeth the perfect and the wicked.
If the scourge slay suddenly, he will laugh at the trial of the innocent.
