1 Then Job replied ⌞to his friends⌟,
2 “If only my grief could be weighed,
3 then they would be heavier than the sand of the seas.
4 because the arrows of the Almighty ⌞have found their target⌟ in me,
5 “Does a wild donkey bray when it’s ⌞eating⌟ grass,
6 Is tasteless food eaten without salt,
7 I refuse to touch such things.
8 “How I wish that my prayer would be answered—
9 that God would ⌞finally⌟ be willing to crush me,
10 Then I would still have comfort.
11 What strength do I have ⌞left⌟ that I can go on hoping?
12 Do I have the strength of rocks?
13 Am I not completely helpless?
14 “A friend should treat a troubled person kindly,
15 My brothers have been as deceptive as seasonal rivers,
16 They are dark with ice.
17 They vanish during a scorching summer.
18 They change their course.
19 Caravans from Tema look for them.
20 They are ashamed because they relied on the streams.
21 “So you are as unreliable to me ⌞as they are⌟.
22 Did I ever say, ‘Give me a gift,’
23 or ‘Rescue me from an enemy,’
24 Teach me, and I’ll be silent.
25 How painful an honest discussion can be!
26 Do you think my words need correction?
27 Would you also throw dice for an orphan?
28 “But now, if you’re willing, look at me.
29 Please change your mind.
30 Is there injustice on my tongue,