“For we are only of yesterday and know nothing,
Because our days on earth are [like] a shadow [just a breath or a vapor].

“Will they (the fathers) not teach you and tell you,
And utter words from their hearts [the deepest part of their nature]?

“So are the paths of all who forget God;
And the hope of the godless will perish,

“While it is still green (in flower) and not cut down,
Yet it withers before any other plant [when without water].

For his confidence is fragile and breaks,
And his trust is [like] a spider’s web.

“He trusts in his house, but it does not stand;
He holds tightly to it, but it does not endure.

“He thrives and prospers [like a green plant] before the sun,
And his branches spread out over his garden.

“Can the papyrus grow up without a marsh?
Can the rushes or reed grass grow without water?

“If he is snatched from his place [in the garden],
Then his place will forget him, saying, ‘I have never seen you.’

Then Bildad the Shuhite answered and said,

“Behold, this is the joy of His way;
And from out of the dust others will spring up and grow [to take his place].

“He will yet fill your mouth with laughter
And your lips with joyful shouting [if you are found blameless].

“Those who hate you will be clothed with shame,
And the tents of the wicked will be no longer.”

“Behold, God will not reject a man of integrity,
Nor will He strengthen or support evildoers.

“Inquire, please, of past generations,
And consider and apply yourself to the things searched out by their fathers.

“Though your beginning was insignificant,
Yet your end will greatly increase.

“His [godless] roots are wrapped around a pile of rocks,
And he gazes at a house of stones.

“If you would [diligently] seek God
And implore the compassion and favor of the Almighty,

“How long will you say these things?
And will the words of your mouth be a mighty wind?

“Does God pervert justice?
Or does the Almighty pervert righteousness?

“If your children have sinned against Him,
Then He has handed them over to the power of their transgression and punished them.

Then, if you are pure and upright,
Surely now He will awaken for you
And restore your righteous place.