Job 6 ISV ISV Parallel

International Standard Version

1In rebuttal, Job replied:

2"If only my grief could be weighed; or my calamity piled together on a balance scale!

3It would weigh more than the sand on the seashore! Here's why I've talked so rashly:

4"The arrows of the Almighty have pierced me; my spirit absorbs their poison; God's terrors have been arranged just for me!

5"Will the wild donkey bray from hunger if fresh grass is beside him? Will the ox low from distress if it is near its feed?

6Tasteless food isn't eaten without salt, is it? Is there any taste in an egg white?

7I cannot bring myself to touch them; food like this makes me sick."

8"Who will grant my wish? I wish God would grant what I'm hoping for:

9that God would just be willing to crush me; that he would let loose and eliminate me!

10At least I could still take comfort and rejoice in unceasing anguish, for I didn't conceal what the Holy One has to say.

11"Do I have the strength to wait? And why should I be patient?

12Am I as strong as a rock? Am I some kind of iron man?

13There is no help within me, is there? My resources have been driven away from me, haven't they?

14The friend shows gracious love for his friend, even if he has forsaken the fear of the Almighty.

15But my brothers have acted treacherously like a cascading river, like torrential rivers that overflow.

16Filled with waters made cold by ice, they are where the snow goes to hide.

17But then the snow melts, and they disappear; when warmed, they evaporate from their stream beds.

18Travelers divert in their route; they go into a wasteland and die.

19Travelers from Tema search intently; caravans from Sheba hope to find them.

20For all their expectations, they are doomed to disappointment; even though they have come and searched this far.

21"And now you're all just like them, aren't you? You see my terror and are terrified.

22When did I ever ask you for anything, say 'Offer a bribe for me from your wealth?'

23or say 'Deliver me from my enemy's control,' or 'Redeem me from the domination of ruthless people'?"

24"Instruct me, and I'll remain silent. Help me understand where I've gone astray.

25The truth can be painful, but what has your argument proven?

26Did you intend your words to reprove, even though the speech of a desperate person is just wind?

27Indeed, you would gamble to buy an orphan; and barter to buy your friend!

28Now be willing to face me, and I won't lie to your face.

29Repent! Let there be no injustice; Change your ways! My vindication is at stake.

30Have I said anything that's unjust? I can discern evil, can't I?"