Even if He kills me, I will hope in Him.
I will still defend my ways before Him.

Why do I put myself at risk
and take my life in my own hands?

Yes, this will result in my deliverance,
for no godless person can appear before Him.

Now then, I have prepared my case;
I know that I am right.

Pay close attention to my words;
let my declaration ring in your ears.

How many iniquities and sins have I committed?
Reveal to me my transgression and sin.

remove Your hand from me,
and do not let Your terror frighten me.

Only grant these two things to me, God,
so that I will not have to hide from Your presence:

Can anyone indict me?
If so, I will be silent and die.

Then call, and I will answer,
or I will speak, and You can respond to me.

For You record bitter accusations against me
and make me inherit the iniquities of my youth.

Man wears out like something rotten,
like a moth-eaten garment.

>

Will You frighten a wind-driven leaf?
Will You chase after dry straw?

You put my feet in the stocks
and stand watch over all my paths,
setting a limit for the soles of my feet.

Why do You hide Your face
and consider me Your enemy?

But you coat the truth with lies;
you are all worthless doctors.

Look, my eyes have seen all this;
my ears have heard and understood it.

Would you testify unjustly on God’s behalf
or speak deceitfully for Him?

Would it go well if He examined you?
Could you deceive Him as you would deceive a man?

Yet I prefer to speak to the Almighty
and argue my case before God.

Everything you know, I also know;
I am not inferior to you.

If only you would shut up
and let that be your wisdom!

Be quiet, and I will speak.
Let whatever comes happen to me.

Would you show partiality to Him
or argue the case in His defense?

Surely He would rebuke you
if you secretly showed partiality.

Your memorable sayings are proverbs of ash;
your defenses are made of clay.

Hear now my argument,
and listen to my defense.

Would God’s majesty not terrify you?
Would His dread not fall on you?