Job 21:1-15 ▼

1 But Job answered and said,

2 Hear diligently my speech, and let this be your consolations.

3 Suffer me that I may speak; and after that I have spoken, mock on.

4 As for me, is my complaint to man? and if it were so, why should not my spirit be troubled?

5 Mark me, and be astonished, and lay your hand on your mouth.

6 Even when I remember I am afraid, and trembling takes hold on my flesh.

7 Why do the wicked live, become old, yes, are mighty in power?

8 Their seed is established in their sight with them, and their offspring before their eyes.

9 Their houses are safe from fear, neither is the rod of God on them.

10 Their bull engenders, and fails not; their cow calves, and casts not her calf.

11 They send forth their little ones like a flock, and their children dance.

12 They take the tambourine and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ.

13 They spend their days in wealth, and in a moment go down to the grave.

14 Therefore they say to God, Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of your ways.

15 What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we pray to him?