¹Then Job replied: ²“If only my grief could be weighed ³For then it would outweigh the sand of the seas — ⁴For the arrows of the Almighty have pierced me; ⁵Does a wild donkey bray over fresh grass, ⁶Is tasteless food eaten without salt, ⁷My soul refuses to touch them; ⁸If only my request were granted ⁹that God would be willing to crush me, ¹⁰It still brings me comfort, ¹¹What strength do I have, that I should still hope? ¹²Is my strength like that of stone, ¹³Is there any help within me ¹⁴A despairing man should have the kindness of his friend, ¹⁵But my brothers are as faithless as wadis, ¹⁶darkened because of the ice ¹⁷but ceasing in the dry season ¹⁸Caravans turn aside from their routes; ¹⁹The caravans of Tema look for water; ²⁰They are confounded because they had hoped; ²¹For now you are of no help; ²²Have I ever said, ‘Give me something; ²³deliver me from the hand of the enemy; ²⁴Teach me, and I will be silent. ²⁵How painful are honest words! ²⁶Do you intend to correct my words, ²⁷You would even cast lots for an orphan ²⁸But now, please look at me. ²⁹Reconsider; do not be unjust. ³⁰Is there iniquity on my tongue?