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13:1  “All this I have observed with my own eyes; my ears have heard and understood it.
13:2  What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you in any way.
13:3  But I only wish to speak with the Almighty and to argue my case with God.
13:4  As for you, you are obscuring the truth with lies, and the solutions you offer are all worthless.
13:5  “Oh, if only you would be completely silent! For you, that would be regarded as wisdom.
13:6  Hear now my reasoning and listen to the plea that issues from my lips.
13:7  Is it on God’s behalf that you utter lies? Is it in his defense that you speak deceitfully?
13:8  Will you show partiality for him as you plead his case?
13:9  “Will you feel totally comfortable when he examines you? Will you be able to deceive him as you deceive men?
13:10  If you show partiality, even though not flagrant, he will surely rebuke you.
13:11  Will not his majesty frighten you and the fear of him overcome you?
13:12  The ideas you propose are proverbs of ash; your arguments are defenses of clay.
13:13  “Be silent so that I may speak on my own behalf. Then let what may come upon me.
13:14  I am taking my life in my own hands and placing myself in jeopardy.
13:15  Perhaps he may slay me, but I have no other hope than to defend my conduct before him.
13:16  This will prove to be my salvation, for the godless will not dare to come before him.
13:17  “Therefore, listen carefully to my words and give my defense a careful hearing.
13:18  I have prepared my case carefully, and I am certain that I will be vindicated.
13:19  If anyone can make a valid case against me, then I will be silent and die.
13:20  “Only grant me two things, O God, and then I will not hide myself from your face:
13:21  just withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.
13:22  Then summon me, and I will answer, or let me speak first, and then you can reply.
13:23  “Of how many crimes and sins am I guilty? Make known to me my faults and my transgressions.
13:24  Why do you hide your face and look upon me as your enemy?
13:25  Will you harass a wind-blown leaf and chase after dry chaff?
13:26  “For you have drawn up bitter charges against me and caused me to suffer for the iniquities of my youth,
13:27  putting my feet in the stocks and keeping a close watch on every step I take as you trace all my footprints.
13:28  Thus, I waste away like rotting wood or like a moth-eaten garment.