Job 21

¹Then Job made answer and said,

²Give attention with care to my words; and let this be your comfort.

³Let me say what is in my mind, and after that, go on making sport of me.

⁴As for me, is my outcry against man? is it then to be wondered at if my spirit is troubled?

⁵Take note of me and be full of wonder, put your hand on your mouth.

⁶At the very thought of it my flesh is shaking with fear.

⁷Why is life given to the evil-doers? why do they become old and strong in power?

⁸Their children are ever with them, and their offspring before their eyes.

⁹Their houses are free from fear, and the rod of God does not come on them.

¹⁰Their ox is ready at all times to give seed; their cow gives birth, without dropping her young.

¹¹They send out their young ones like a flock, and their children have pleasure in the dance,

¹²They make songs to the instruments of music, and are glad at the sound of the pipe.

¹³Their days come to an end without trouble, and suddenly they go down to the underworld.

¹⁴Though they said to God, Go away from us, for we have no desire for the knowledge of your ways.

¹⁵What is the Ruler of all, that we may give him worship? and what profit is it to us to make prayer to him?