1 THEN Job answered and said,

2 Even today is my complaint bitter; God's hand is heavier and increases my groaning.

3 Oh that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his seat!

4 I would lay my cause in order before him, and fill my mouth with arguments.

5 I would know what he would answer me, and understand what he would say to me.

6 Would he contend with me with his great power? If he would not, then he will put his fear into me.

7 There I might contend justly with him; and I might be justified and acquitted.

8 Behold, if he goes before me, I know not; or behind, I cannot perceive him.

9 I seek him on my left hand, but I cannot behold him; then I turn to my right hand, but I cannot see him.

10 But it is he who knows my way and my existence, and has tried me like gold, and I came forth pure.

11 My feet have held firm to his steps, and I have kept his ways.

12 I have not despised the commandments of his lips; neither have I departed from his will, and have kept the words of his mouth.

13 But in return for one of these, what has he granted me? What his soul desires, even that he does.

14 But he performs his covenant; and many such things are with him.

15 Therefore I am fearful at his presence; when I consider, I am afraid of him.

16 For God has troubled my heart, and my mind is confused:

17 Because I was not silenced before the darkness, and before the covering of the blackness.