1Then Zophar the Naamathite answered and said:

2"Should not the multitude of words be answered? And should a man full of talk be vindicated?

3Should your empty talk make men hold their peace? And when you mock, should no one rebuke you?

4For you have said, "My doctrine is pure, And I am clean in your eyes.'

5But oh, that God would speak, And open His lips against you,

6That He would show you the secrets of wisdom! For they would double your prudence. Know therefore that God exacts from you Less than your iniquity deserves.

7"Can you search out the deep things of God? Can you find out the limits of the Almighty?

8They are higher than heaven-- what can you do? Deeper than Sheol-- what can you know?

9Their measure is longer than the earth And broader than the sea.

10"If He passes by, imprisons, and gathers to judgment, Then who can hinder Him?

11For He knows deceitful men; He sees wickedness also. Will He not then consider it?

12For an empty-headed man will be wise, When a wild donkey's colt is born a man.

13"If you would prepare your heart, And stretch out your hands toward Him;

14If iniquity were in your hand, and you put it far away, And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;

15Then surely you could lift up your face without spot; Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear;

16Because you would forget your misery, And remember it as waters that have passed away,

17And your life would be brighter than noonday. Though you were dark, you would be like the morning.

18And you would be secure, because there is hope; Yes, you would dig around you, and take your rest in safety.

19You would also lie down, and no one would make you afraid; Yes, many would court your favor.

20But the eyes of the wicked will fail, And they shall not escape, And their hope--loss of life!"