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Book of Job

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Author: --- Background & Theme --- dated at:
Uncertain, it is unlikely it was Job, possibly Moses or Solomon. Telling of Job's life and sufferings, questioning why; Later leading to his repentance and abundant blessings from God. Job lived in the land of Uz and his life predates the Exodus of 1445bc. It has been estimated that the affections of Job lasted for eight or nine months, (less than a year). Much has been said about the book, man has drawn many vain and foolish philosophies from it. The truth, spoken by God is: Man confuses his own counsel by speaking words without knowledge, Job 38:2. And the truth spoken by Elihu, one of Job's companions is: For God is great and we do not comprehend Him, nor can we search Him out, Job 36:26.
forty-two chapters
Likely to be the oldest book written in the bible, 300-500 years after the great flood, somewhere around 2000BC.

Main themes of the book, with chapter numbers
line

Verse by verse, account of the book of Job.

Job: chapter 1
Job's first disaster, he lost all his livestock and his ten children.

1The man Job lived in the land of Uz. He was a perfect and upright man, for he feared God and shunned evil. 2And had seven sons and three daughters. 3His possessions were seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five thousand yoke of oxen and five hundred female donkeys. He had a great household and was known as the greatest of all men of the east.

4All of his sons on their special day, (NOTE: most likely their birthday), would hold a feast in their homes, together with their three sisters. 5When their feast day was over, Job would send for them and sanctify them. Rising early in the morning to offer burnt offerings according to the number of his children. For he wondered if his sons have sinned, cursing God in their hearts. Thus Job did this after all of their feasts.

6Now there was a day when the sons of God (angels), came to before the LORD and Satan also came with them before the LORD. 7And the LORD said to Satan; Where have you come from? And Satan answered saying; From searching and walking through the entire earth. 8And the LORD said to Satan, Have you set your heart against My servant Job, for there is no one like him in the whole earth. For Job is a perfect and upright man, for he fears God and shuns evil? 9Then Satan answered the LORD, saying; Does Job fear and reverence God for no reason at all? 10Have you not put a hedge around him, his house and all his possessions? You have blessed the work of his hands and all he owns has increased. 11But put forth your hand, striking all that he has and he will curse You to Your face. 12Then the LORD said to Satan; All that he has is within your power, but do not harm the man himself. Then Satan left the presence of the LORD.

13On the next day when Job's sons and daughters were feasting in their eldest brother's house. 14A messenger came to Job, saying; The oxen were plowing in the field and the donkeys were feeding beside them. 15The men of southwest Arabia attacked, taking away the animals and killing the servants with the sword and I was the only one who escaped to inform you of this. 16While he was yet speaking, another servant came, saying; Lighting had struck and burnt up and consumed your sheep and your servants and I was the only one to escape to inform you of this. 17While he was yet speaking, another servant came, saying; The men of Chaldean came and formed three companies and took away the camels, slaying the servants with the sword and I was the only one to escape to inform you of this. 18While he was yet speaking, there came another servant, saying; As your sons and your daughters were feasting in their eldest brother's house: 19A great wind destroyed the entire house and your sons and daughters are all dead. I was the only one to escape to inform you of this.

20Job then arose, tore his robe in grief and despair. Shaved his head and fell to the ground and worshiped God. 21Saying; Naked I came into this world and naked shall I return. The LORD has given to me and the LORD has taken away from me. Blessed be the name of the LORD. 22Even through all of this Job did not sin, nor did he foolishly blame God.

Job: chapter 2
Job's second disaster, painful boils from head to foot.

1And again when the sons of God (the angels), came before the LORD, Satan also came with them before the LORD. 2And the LORD said to Satan, Where have you come from? And Satan said; From searching and walking through the entire earth. 3And the LORD said to Satan, Is your heart still set on My servant Job, for there is no one like him in the whole earth. Job is a perfect and upright man, for he fears God and shuns evil? Still he holds on to his integrity, even though you caused Me to be against him without a cause. 4And Satan said; A man will give all to save his own life. 5Put out your hand and strike his flesh, then he shall curse You to Your face. 6And the LORD said to Satan; Job is in your hand, but do not take his life.

7Satan then left the presence of the LORD and struck Job with boils from his feet to his head. 8And Job took a piece of broken pottery to scrape his sores with, as he sat among the ashes. 9Then his wife said to him; Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die. 10But Job said to her: Your speaking as a foolish woman. Shall we accept only the good at the hand of God and not also the misfortune? Even with this Job did not sin by his speech.

11Now when Job's three friends heard of all that had befallen him, they came from their homes to mourn and comfort him, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite. 12When they saw him, they did not recognize him. Everyone of them, wept and tore their clothing, putting dust on their heads and looked towards the heavens. 13And they sat on the ground with Job for seven days and seven nights, without any of them saying a word to him, for they knew that his grief was very great.

Job: chapter 3
Job speaks his grievance.

1After the seven days Job opened his mouth and cursed the day, 2saying; 3Let both the day that I was born and the night that I was conceived perish. 4Let that day be darkness and go unnoticed by God. 5Let deep darkness and the shadow of death claim the days of my birth. Darkness so great it terrifies the day. 6And as for the night, let darkness come upon it so great, that the day would not even be counted with the other days. 7And that night be alone and barren, no joyful sound shall come from it. 8Let them who curse, curse that day and bring forth Leviathan, the beast of the sea. 9Let the stars of that day be darkened, even though they look for light, let them find none, neither let them see the dawning of the day. 10For they did not prevent my birth, nor did they hide sorrow from my eyes.

11Why was I not stillborn, why did I fight to live? 12Why were there arms to hold me and breasts to nourish me? 13For if I would have given up and slept, I would now be at rest. 14Together with kings and counselors of the earth, that had built desolate places for themselves. 15Or with wealthy princes. with houses of treasures. 16Or as an unknown miscarriage, as an infant which never saw the light of day. 17In that place, the wicked cease from troubling you and the weary are at rest. 18There all the prisoners rest together, they do not hear the voice of the oppressor. 19Both the low and mighty are there and the servant is free from his master.

20Why does God bring light and life to him that is in misery and to the bitter in soul? 21That greatly long for death, but do not find it. 22And when they finely do, they rejoice with great joy. 23Why is life given to a man, when God has hedged in and hidden his way from him? 24For my sighs are before me always and my anguish flows like a river. 25For this thing which I greatly fear and am afraid of has come upon me. 26For I was not at ease or at rest and yet this trouble came to me.

Job: chapter 4
Job debates with his three companions, (Eliphaz, Bildad & Zophar), (chapters 4-31).
Eliphaz the Temanite gives words of correction to Job, (two chapters).

1Then Eliphaz the Temanite spoke to Job, saying; 2If we venture to converse with you, will you be offended? For we cannot withhold ourselves from speaking. 3You, yourself have instructed many and strengthened weak hands. 4Your words have given strength to him that was falling, restoring feeble knees. 5Now it has touched you and you are faint hearted and troubled. 6Is not your reverent fear of God and the uprightness of your ways, your confidence and your hope.

7I pray that you would think about this, have you ever seen the innocent perish, or the righteous cut off? 8I have also seen, those that sow iniquity and troubles, reap the same. 9By the hand of God they perish and are consumed. 10Under the oppression of fierce and cruel oppressors, even the wicked are broken. 11The old oppressors perish for lack of prey and the stout are scattered all about.

12A word came to me in secret and I received it clearly. 13Through visions of the night and in deep sleep. 14Fear and trembling, came upon me, which made all my bones shake. 15Then a spirit passed before me and the hairs on my head stood up. 16The spirit stood still, I could not discern its form and I heard a voice, saying; 17Shall mortal man make himself out to be more just than God? How can a man be purer and holier than his Maker? 18For the LORD puts no trust in his heavenly servants, nor does He give praise to His angels. 19How much less an earthly man, whose foundation is of the dust and is as frail as a moth? 20For simple moths are destroyed throughout the day and they perish without anyone noticing them. 21Any any excellency within the moth vanishes and they die without wisdom.

Job: chapter 5

1Call now for help if there are any holy angels that will answer you. 2For the foolish man is killed through his own wrath and envy kills the simple. 3I have seen the foolish taking root and their dwelling ends up being cursed. 4His children are far from safety, caught amidst the father's folly and there is none to deliver them. 5Their harvest is eaten up along with even the thorns, as their entire wealth is consumed. 6For affliction does not come from out of nowhere, nor does trouble come up from the ground. 7But without a doubt, human man has surely been born unto trouble.

8As for me, I would seek God and plead my cause to God. 9Whom does great and unsearchable things, marvelous things being without number. 10He sends rain upon the earth and waters the fields. 11He exalts the lowly and those that mourn He lifts to safety. 12He makes to no avail the schemes of the crafty, taking away their livelihood. 13He traps the wise in their own craftiness and the counsel of the wicked is made foolish. 14These men scheme in dark private rooms in the daytime, being disoriented by the light of day. 15Yet God saves the poor from their trap and from the hand of the mighty. 16Giving hope to the poor, while their own iniquities have stopped them. 17Happy is the man whom God corrects, therefore, do not despise the chastening of the Almighty. 18For the LORD does wound, but He also heals with the same hand. 19He will deliver you through many troubles and no evil shall come near you. 20For He redeems from death of famine and from the power of the sword. 21He shall hide you from the rebuke of the tongue, nor shall you be afraid of destruction when it comes. 22For you shall make light of destruction and famine, neither shall you fear the beasts of the earth. 23For you shall be at peace with the earth and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you. 24There will be assurance that your dwelling is at peace, knowing that you do not sin. 25You shall know that your offspring shall be many. 26And you shall have a full life and your years shall be full. 27There it is, the truth searched out, hear it and know that it is for your own good.

Job: chapter 6
Job's reply to Eliphaz the Temanite, (two chapters).

1Job answered and said; 2If I could but describe my grief to you, you would know how heavy my calamity is. 3For it is heavier than all the sand of the sea, therefore, I have spoken rashly. 4I have been hit with the arrows of the Almighty, their poison is taking over my spirit and the terrors of God are against me. 5Don't be surprised when I speak out of turn, for I have been deprived of all comforts. 6Unsavory is my food and bland is my diet, there is no more spice. 7Such that my soul refused to touch this pitiful meat. 8That God would grant me my request that I long for! 9Or even that it would please God to destroy me. 10This alone is my comfort, I would even rejoice in my pain. If He brought me to the end, for I have not denied the Holy One.

11The strength to keep my hope up is gone, for the future holds nothing for me. 12For my strength and endurance is not everlasting. 13I am not mad Eliphaz but speak to you words of truth and soberness.

14He that is afflicted should be given pity, but his friends seem to forsake him because of the fear of the Almighty. 15My brethren have readily come to me, to comfort me, but have dealt deceitfully and will leave as quickly as they came. 16They are treacherous as ice. 17And when good times come, they vanish. 18They are as an all consuming void, they come to nothing and then they perish. 19Others have looked unto you and waited in vain. 20Having hope they came to you for substance and were ashamed for they found none. 21And you have seen my downfall and have become afraid. 22Did I ask of your substance? 23Or to be delivered or redeemed from the adversary?

24Instruct me, allow me to understand where I have erred and I will hold my tongue. 25Right words are powerful, but where does your babble lead? 26Your words criticize and your speech is hopeless and useless. 27You even overwhelm the fatherless and you dig pits for your friend. 28Therefore be content to look upon me and may it be evident to you if I lie. 29I pray that you abandon your suspicions, for my righteousness is in this. 30Does my tongue error? Can I not discern perverse, (morally corrupt) things?

Job: chapter 7

1Do not all men have an appointed time upon this earth? 2As a servant looks forward to the end of the day, when they can rest and receive their reward. 3So was I appointed to face months of vanity, along with wearisome nights. 4When I lie down, I wait until I can rise again, for the nights are filled with tossing until the break of day. 5My flesh is covered with worms and dirt, open sores and have become despicable. 6My days rapidly come and go having no hope in them at all. 7Remember LORD that my life is but a vapor, I no longer even see good. 8My friends who have seen me shall see me no more, for while Your eyes look upon me, I shall perish. 9Just as the cloud evaporates and is gone, so is it with those who go down to the grave, they are also no more. 10They do not return to their house and they are forgotten.

11Therefore I will not be quiet, I will speak out of the distress of my spirit, complaining in the bitterness of my soul. 12Am I such a monster or an uncontrollable foe, that the LORD has set a watch over me? 13When I think of my bed comforting me, He even takes that away from me. 14For He scares me with dreams and terrifies me through visions. 15That my soul would prefer strangling, seeking death rather than this life of mine. 16For I hate this life, I will not live forever. Therefore, leave me alone, for my days are but to no avail.

17What is man, that You should magnify him, placing value and worth on him and setting Your thoughts on him? 18That You visit him every morning and test him every moment? 19How long will Your plaguing be with me? Let me be alone! Must I complete this test? 20If I have sinned, what harm has that done to You? O Watcher of men, why have You put a mark against me, so that now I am even a burden to myself? 21Why do You not just pardon my transgression and take away my iniquities? For now I make my bed in the dust and when You seek me in the morning, I shall not be.

Job: chapter 8
Bildad the Shuhite speaks to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Bildad the Shuhite spoke to Job, saying; 2How long will you speak these things and how long shall you continue this babble? 3Does the Almighty God pervert judgment or justice? 4If your children have sinned against Him, then He delivered them to the power of their transgressions. 5If you would earnestly seek God and pray to the Almighty. 6Then if you were pure and upright, He would surely consider your situation and the righteous would surly prosper in all they do. 7Even though your beginning was small, He would greatly increase your latter end.

8Inquire of our ancestors and search out what they have learned. 9For we are but recent on this earth and are ignorant, because our days on earth are but a shadow. 10But our ancestors shall instruct you. 11Can bull-weeds grow except in a muddy swamp or grass grow without water? 12While they are still yet green and not cut down, they quickly wither away. 13So are they that forget God, thus the hope of the hypocrite shall perish: 14Their hope is cut off, for their trust was as weak as a strand of thread. 15He leans on his foundation, but it does not stand, for there is no enduring strength to it. 16He is as a tender sprout before the sun and his branches come up quickly. 17For his (godless) roots are wrapped among the rocks and he compares himself with those among the rocks. 18And when he is ripped up from his place, it shall be spoken; I have not known you.

19This is the joy of the ungodly and others shall quickly take his place. 20For God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will He help the evil doers. 21So if you turn back to God, He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with rejoicing. 22Those that hate you shall be clothed in shame and their dwelling place shall come to nought.

Job: chapter 9
Job's reply to Bildad the Shuhite, (two chapters).

1Job answered and said; 2Yes, I know this is true, but how can a mortal man be right before a holy God? 3If he will argue with Him, it is slim that He will answer any of our questions. 4For God is wise and mighty, who could possibly argue against God and still prosper? 5For in God's anger He overturns mountains, before they know what is happening. 6He can shake the earth out of its place and the foundations tremble. 7Whom commands the sun to rise or not and can remove the stars from view. 8He alone has created the heavens and walks on the high places of the sea. 9Whom has made the constellations of the south.` 10For He has done great and incomprehensible past things and wonders without number. 11Even though He walks with me, I do not see or perceive Him. 12When He takes away, who can hinder Him? Who can say to Him; What are You doing? 13If God does not withdraw His anger, even the high and mighty bow to Him.

14How could I ever then question Him and have words to reason with Him? 15Even though I am righteous and innocent, I would not answer, rather I would appeal for mercy to my Judge. 16Even if I had called and He had answered me, I would not believe that He had hearkened to my voice. 17For He has swiftly broken me without cause. 18Allowing me not to even catch my breath, filling me with bitterness. 19For if I speak of strength, He is stronger or of judgment, I have no time to plead? 20If I attempt to justify myself, my own mouth condemns me. If I say to Him, I am perfect, my own speech proves me otherwise. 21Though I am blameless, I do not know of my own soul, for I despise my life. 22We have but one end, He consumes both the blameless and the wicked. 23When sudden disaster strikes, He laughs at the trial of the innocent. 24The earth is given into the hand of the wicked and God has blinded their judges to true justice. If this is not of Him, then tell me, who is it?

25My days are now passing swifter than a runner, they flee away and no good is to be seen. 26They pass away as a ship under full speed, or an eagle diving for its prey. 27If I forgo my complaint and can put all of my heaviness behind me. 28I know that you will not hold me innocent. 29Therefore, if you have labeled me to be wicked, why should I then labor in vain? 30Even if I wash myself with pure water and make my hands ever so clean. 31You would still dip me in corruption until even my own clothes shall abhor me. 32For God is not a mortal man as I am, that I should come together with Him in court. 33Neither is there a mediator between us, who might bring us both together. 34May God take His rod away from me and not terrify me anymore. 35Then I would speak and not fear Him, but this is not the case with me.

Job: chapter 10

1My soul is weary and I abhor my life, I will freely voice my complaint, speaking from the bitterness of my soul. 2I will plead with God not to condemn me and to make me understand why He contends with me. 3Questioning if it seems good to Him that He should oppress and despise the work of His own hands, through taking counsel from the wicked? 4Does God see things as mortal men see them? 5Are Your days and years the same as man's, 6that You seek out my iniquity and search after my sin? 7You know that I am not of the wicked and none can deliver me out of Your hand.

8Your hands made me and fashioned me together, yet You are now destroying me. 9Earnestly remember that I am but clay, will You bring me into dust again? 10Have you not brought all life together? 11For You have clothed me with skin and flesh, having a frame of bones and muscle. 12You have granted me life and favor and through Your intervention, You have preserved my spirit.

13Yet have You hid this evil testing in your heart from my creation. I now know that this was with You in purpose and in thought. 14That if I sin, you do observe me and do not acquit me from my iniquity. 15If I am wicked, woe is me and if I be righteous, am I not right in lifting up my head? I am full of confusion because of my affliction. 16For the hunt seems to be unrelenting, as You place marvelous trials on me. 17You multiply Your anger against me, it seems as if I am constantly being attacked. 18Why then did you bring me out of the womb? Oh if I had only given up the ghost then! 19If only I had never been, or stillborn from the womb to the grave. 20Are not my days few? cease this and let me alone, that I may take comfort. 21Before I go to the land of darkness and the shadow of death, where I shall not return from. 22A land of darkness, without any order.

Job: chapter 11
Zophar the Naamathite speaks to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Zophar the Naamathite spoke to Job, saying; 2What a multitude of words, should a man full of such talk be justified? 3Should your lies make us keep silent? For with this mockery, can any man make you ashamed? 4For you have said; My doctrine is pure and I am clean in my eyes. 5But oh that God would speak against you. 6And open to you the secrets of His sound wisdom, but know that God forgets some of our iniquities. Therefore, know that you have not gotten fully all that you deserve. 7Can all of your searching reveal the perfection of God the Almighty? 8God is as high as the heaven and can be deeper than hell, how can you possibly comprehend? 9The measures alone are immense. 10Who can hinder Him, if He is against a man, who shall call Him into account for it? 11For He knows of vain men, when He sees their wickedness, do you not think He considers it? 12For foolish men consider themselves to be wise.

13Now if you prepare your heart and stretch out your hands toward Him. 14Putting aside your iniquity and the wickedness that dwells within you. 15Then you will be able to lift up your face without spot, being steadfast and without a doubt of fear. 16Then your miseries shall leave you and you shall remember them as waters that have passed away. 17Your life will then become bright, though there be darkness in the world, you shall walk in the light. 18You shall rest in security and safety, having great hope. 19When you lie down, no one shall make you afraid and many shall seek your favor. 20And the wicked shall fall without having an escape and their hope shall fade.

Job: chapter 12
Job's reply to Zophar the Naamathite, (three chapters).

1Then Job answered and said; 2No doubt that you are the only wise ones in the world and when you die wisdom shall perish with you. 3I am not inferior to you, for I have understanding also, yet I do not know these great and wonderful things of God's wisdom and might.

4I have become a laughingstock to my neighbors. Known as, The man that calls upon God and God answers him. I am a just and upright man, now mocked to scorn. 5It is easy for those who are living in health and comfort to hold contempt for anothers misfortune, but beware it awaits for those whose feet slip. 6The dwellings of robbers prosper and they that provoke God seem secure and God brings much abundance into their hands. 7But ask the beasts of the field and the birds of the air. They will even teach and tell you. 8Or speak to the earth and the fish of the sea, they shall also tell you. 9Who is so blind as to not know that it is God's hand that does all these things? 10In His hand is the soul of every living thing and the breath of all mankind. 11Cannot we discriminate between wise and unwise words, just as the mouth distinguishes between taste? 12You say, with age comes wisdom and understanding. 13But only with God is perfect wisdom and might.

14He tears down and it cannot be built again, He shuts a man in and no one can release him. 15He can withhold the waters, until they dry up, or He can send a flood to overturn the earth. 16Strength and true wisdom are His and the deceived and deceiver are in His hand. 17He leads scheming counselors away to their own ruin and overthrows the plans of foolish judges. 18He binds up kings through the scheming of their own plans. 19Leads princes away to be spoiled and overthrows the mighty. 20He binds up the speech of the trusted men and takes away the understanding and discernment of the aged. 21Pouring contempt on princes and bring low the strength of the mighty. 22He uncovers deep things from out of the darkness and brings into the light the shadow of death. 23The nations increase or are destroyed by His hand, or scattered as the people go into captivity. 24Taking away the will of the people, causing them to wander in a wilderness outside of a known path. 25The people grope in the dark without light and He makes them to stagger like a drunken man.

Job: chapter 13

1Yes, I have seen, heard and understood all of this. 2What you know, I also know, I am not inferior to you. 3I would welcome speaking and reasoning with the Almighty. 4But you speak falsely and defame my character, you are but worthless physicians. 5If you would only hold your peace, that would be your wisdom. 6Hear my reasoning and be attentive to the pleadings of my lips. 7Do you dare speak unrighteously of God, talking deceitfully about Him? 8Will you lift up the Person of God, or debate with Him? 9Would it be good for you if He searched you out, how you have dwelt with me? Just as one man mocks another, for you mock Him? 10And He will surely reprove you, if you secretly show partiality. 11Will you not even be afraid of His excellency, will not His dread fall upon you? 12Your very cleaver sayings will be as ashes, as your bodies turn into dust.

13Hold your peace and leave me alone. Allow me to speak and whatever comes on me shall be. 14Why should I take this risk and put my life in my hands, incurring the dangers of God's wrath? 15Even though He slays me, I trust in Him, keeping my own ways and integrity before Him. 16For He is my salvation and no hypocrite shall not come before Him. 17Listen carefully to my words. 18For now that I have set my cause in order, I know that I shall be justified. 19And can anyone argue with me? Thus I rest my case.

20Only, Lord God grant me two things and I will have assurance. 21Withdraw Your hand far from me and let not Your dread make me afraid. 22Then call to me and I will answer. I will then speak and You shall answer me. 23Tell me how many iniquities and sins have been charged against me? And make them known to me. 24Why do You hide from me, as if I was Your enemy? 25Will You terrify a poor helpless vessel. 26For You have brought bitter things against me, making me inherit the iniquities of my youth. 27You have put my legs in stocks, restricting my path, examining closely all my ways. 28But now I waste away like a rotten thing, like a garment that is moth eaten.

Job: chapter 14

1The days of mortal man are few and filled with troubles. 2He springs up quickly like a flower, then to be cut down and he withers away as a shadow. 3And would the Lord God look upon one such as this and yet contend with him? 4For who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean thing? 5Man's days are set, for the number of his months are with You and You have set his boundaries. 6Turn from man, so that he may rest, until his days are accomplished. 7For there is hope for a tree if it be cut down, that the tender shoots will spring up again, 8Even if its roots lie doormen in the earth and its stump is dead. 9Yet, with water new sprouts will bud. 10But man just dies and wastes away and is no more. 11Just as waters that flow away from the sea, only to dry up. 12So does man lie down, not to rise again, until the heavens are changed.

13If You would only hide me in the grave and keep me there until Your wrath subsides, appointing a set time to gather me back up. 14If a man dies, will he live again? All days of my struggle I wait until that day comes. 15Then You would call to me and I would answer You, the very workmanship of Your own hands. 16But for now You track my every move and watch over my every sin. 17You have sealed up my transgressions and iniquity, for the day of reckoning. 18Meanwhile, time passes and the mountains waste away. 19The waters erode the earth, as also is man's hope is washed away. 20You prevail forever against him, until he passes on, then You transform him as he is sent from the presents of the living. 21Ater he is passed, he is removed from the knowledge of this world. 22But within this life, his fleshly body is pained and his soul mourns.

Job: chapter 15
Eliphaz the Temanite speaks a second time to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Eliphaz the Temanite spoke again to Job, saying; 2Would a wise man speak words void of knowledge? or fill himself with words that simply waste away. 3Should he reason with such nonsense, or with words that cannot profit him? 4You have lost the reverential fear of God, hindering your devotion before Him. 5For you speak iniquities and you are learning the way of the crafty. 6Your own mouth condemns you, rather than my words. 7Were you the original wise man, that was born before time began? 8Have you heard the secrets of God, retaining wisdom only to yourself? 9Do you know and understand more than we do? 10With us today are elders much older than even your father. 11Are the promises of God, that we have spoken, not enough for you? Perhaps you have a secret sin and we have been too gentle with you. 12What are your emotions secretly justifying. 13that you have turned your spirit against God and have also spoken against Him.

14Is it possible for mortal man to be clean and righteous? 15For God puts no trust in His holy angels, even the heavens are not clean in his sight. 16How much more abominable and filthy is man, which indulges in his iniquities?

17Hear me and I will show and declare to you what I have seen. 18What wise men have freely passed down to me from their fathers. 19To whom the land was first given, when the truth was not corrupted. 20The wicked man suffers with self-inflected pain all the number of his days. 21Even in his prosperity, he is filled with dread and the destroyer comes upon him. 22Because of his guilt, he has no hope of returning from the darkness and awaits the vengeance of God's wrath. 23He wanders about for bread, knowing that the day of darkness is at hand. 24Constant fear overpowers him. 25For he has dared to stretch out his hand against God, attempting to strengthen himself against the Almighty. 26Running stubbornly at Him with a mighty shield and bow. 27He runs with a hardened heart, having indulged himself in the flesh. 28For he proudly lives in ruins, that are designated to become a garbage heap. 29He shall never become rich or prosperous, neither shall his gain be felt by others on the earth 30Neither shall he depart out of darkness, nor escape God's calamity, for by the breath of God, he shall be no more. 31For he who deceives himself with lies and empty words, lies and vain words shall be his reward. 32It shall be paid in full even before his time and he shall wither away. 33God shall cast this unfruitful grape off the vine. 34For the multitude of the ungodly shall be barren and their life of bribery shall be no more. 35Because they scheme and bring forth evil and harbor deceit in their hearts.

Job: chapter 16
Job's reply to Eliphaz the Temanite, (two chapters).

1Then Job answered and said; 2I have heard much, miserable comforters are you all. 3Is there no end to your vain words? Or your boldness to answer me like this? 4If situations were reversed, I could speak to you as you have to me, heaping up arguments against you and shaking my head at you. 5But I would rather strengthen you with my speech and comfort your grief.

6Though I speak, my pain is not comforted and if I keep silent, I am still rebuked. 7But God has made me weary and my family desolate. 8For God has shriveled me up and the failure in my face testifies to this. 9My adversary who hates me has torn me apart in his wrath. 10People gape at me and have gathered themselves against me. 11For God has delivered me to the ungodly, turning me over to the hands of the wicked one. 12When I was at ease, the adversary crushed me, setting me up as his mark. 13His archers encamp round about me, he is relentless and unsparing, as he pours out my vitals on the ground. 14 He breaks me over and over.

15I have sowed sackcloth on my skin and defiled my head in the dust. 16My face is red and swollen from weeping and my eyelids are as the shadow of death. 17Even though no violence is in my hand, my prayer is pure. 18If I have committed any injustice, may it be openly revealed and my cries heard. 19For my witness is in heaven and my record is upright. 20My friends scorn me, yet my eyes pour out tears to God. 21If only there was a mediator to plead for a man with God, as a man pleads for his neighbor. 22But after a few years, I shall leave this life and I shall not return.

Job: chapter 17

1My spirit has been broken, my days are exhausted and the grave is ready for me. 2There is mockery all around me and I dwell on their insults.

3Lord give me Your Word and acknowledge my innocents before my death, for only You can do that. 4You have hidden understanding from them, therefore, do not let them triumph against me. 5For he that denounces his friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail.

6But He has made me a mockery among the people and the people spit before my face. 7Because of sorrow, my eyes are dim and my strength is but a distant shadow. 8Upright men shall be astonished and appalled at this and the innocent shall stir themselves up. 9But the righteous will hold on to their way and the pure in heart shall become stronger.

10As for my comforters, perhaps you would like to return and start again, for I have not found any wisdom among you. 11My days are past, my purposes are gone along with the thoughts of my heart. 12These thoughts extend through both the day and the night, making the light of day short because of the ever increasing darkness. 13If I wait for the grave, my hope is limited to darkness. 14Corruption would be my father and the worm, my mother and my sister. 15For my hope is gone, there is none left. 16We shall all rest together within the dust of the pit.

Job: chapter 18
Bildad the Shuhite speaks a second time to Job, (one chapter).

1Bildad the Shuhite then said; 2How long until the end of your words? Then afterwards we shall speak. 3You have considered us as slow witted beasts and being vile in your sight. 4Even though you cry out in anger, shall the earth be forsaken, or the rocks be removed for you?

5We know that the life of the wicked shall be extinguished! 6All their lights in their dwellings shall be put out. 7Through his own ways and counsel, he shall become entrapped. 8For his own ways have snared him in his own trap. 9Seized by the heel, with a noose around his neck.

10Yes, the trap is all laid for him. 11He shall be afraid on every side and shall nip at his heals. 12Famine shall be his only strength, with destruction close by at his side. 13It will devour his skin and the firstborn of death shall devour his strength. 14He shall have no confidence and will be driven to the king of terrors, (NOTE: death). 15Others shall dwell in his physical dwelling, only after it has been purified with sulfur. 16His roots shall be dried up and his branch shall be cut off. 17There shall be no remembrance of him on the earth. 18For he shall be driven from light into darkness and banished from the world. 19No family of his shall remain among his people, or in his dwellings. 20And even the wicked shall be astonished by this, as also those who go before him shall be seized with fear. 21This is the end of the wicked and the place of them that do not know God.

Job: chapter 19
Job's reply to Bildad the Shuhite, (one chapter).

1Then Job answered and said; 2How long will you trouble my soul and wound me with your words? 3Time after time you have reproached me with your words, are you not even ashamed of this. 4If it be that I have erred, my error remains with me. 5For you exalt yourself above me, making arguments against me while I am in misery. 6Know for sure that God has overthrown me, capturing me in His net.

7Even though I cry out aloud, I am not heard, for there is no judgment. 8He has constrained my way and has put darkness in my path. 9Stripping me of all my glory. 10Destroying me on every side, until my hope is gone and I am not. 11His wrath has been kindled against me and I am considered as one of His enemies. 12His troops encamp round about my dwelling, to lay siege against me.

13My brothers have been separated far from me and my friends have turned away from me. 14My kinsfolk have deserted me and my familiar friends have forgotten me. 15Those that dwell in my house and my maids, consider me now as a stranger. 16When I called my servant, he did not answer me. 17I am repulsive to my own wife and my own children hate to be around me. 18Young children despise and even speak against me. 19All my close friends abhorred me and they whom I loved are turned against me. 20My bones show through my skin, yet I am delivered by the skin of my teeth.

21My friends have pity upon me! For the hand of God has touched me. 22Why are you persecuting me as God, as wild beasts, are you still desiring more of my flesh? 23Oh that my words were written down and printed in a book, 24Engraved in stone forever! 25For I know that my Redeemer lives and that He shall stand in the latter times upon the earth. 26After worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh, I shall see God. 27And my eyes shall behold Him and not another.

28But, you should ask yourselves, why you are persecuting me? Since the root of the matter is found in me? 29Therefore, be afraid of the sword, For wrath brings the punishments of the sword, that you may know there is a judgment.

Job: chapter 20
Zophar the Naamathite speaks a second time to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Zophar the Naamathite spoke to Job, saying; 2Because of my thoughts, I feel the need to answer in haste, 3because of the reproach you have spoken. And I will answer with the spirit of my understanding.

4Do you not know the ancient foundational truth, since the days when man began? 5That the rejoicing of the wicked and the hypocrite is but for a short time. 6Though his pride puffs himself up as high as the heavens. 7Yet he will perish and is as useless as his own dung. And those that had known him shall ask where he is. 8Just as a dream passes, He shall also pass into oblivion, rebuked as a bad nightmare. 9And he shall not be seen again. 10Then his children shall give back to the poor and of his wealth restore their goods. 11For his bones are full of the sins of his youth and shall go to the grave with him.

12Wickedness is sweet to him, however, through deception he hides it from others. 13Rather than forsaking it, he holds fast to it. 14Even though this food of his, is slowly destroying him. 15For he has gained his livelihood on ill-gotten gains, but shall be forced to release them when God casts them from him. 16He feasts on this poison that will ultimately destroy him. 17Nor will he even be able to enjoy his ill-gotten gain. 18For under condemnation he shall restore all. 19For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor, taking away their homes.

20Because of his desire and greed, he will not be at peace within himself, nor shall he hold on to any of that which he desires. 21They plunder everything, but cannot hold on to anything. 22In the time of his great abundance, he shall be besieged by the hand of his wicked peers. 23As he is scheming his evils, God shall cast the fury of his wrath upon him. 24Though he escapes the iron weapon, he shall be struck down by God's bow of bronze. 25It is total ruin, a clean kill. 26Every misfortune shall be laid upon him, consuming him and anyone left in his tent. 27The heavens shall reveal his iniquity and the earth shall testify against him. 28His house shall cease to prosper and his goods shall leave him in the day of His wrath. 29This is the pathway and the heritage that God appoints to a wicked man.

Job: chapter 21
Job's reply to Zophar the Naamathite, (one chapter).

1And Job answered and said; 2Listen carefully to my speech and let this be your comfort. 3Allow me to speak and after I have spoken you can continue with your mocking.

4As for me, my complaint is not to man, but to God. Therefore, why should not my spirit be troubled? 5You mark my words and you will be astonished and speechless. 6Even when I think about what happened to me, I am become afraid and began to tremble. 7Why do the wicked live to an old age, becoming mighty in power? 8And they establish their offspring in their same ways. 9Their houses are peaceful and removed of fear, nor is the rod of God upon them. 10Their livestock breads and increases without fail. 11Their children are many and happy. 12Rejoicing at the sound of happy tunes. 13They spend their days indulging in luxuries and in a moment go down to the grave. 14Therefore they say to God; Depart from us, for we do not know the knowledge of Your ways. 15Who is this Almighty One and why should we serve Him? And how would that benefit us if we pray and honor Him? 16And the goods the wicked have acquired, have also come from the provision of God, but the wisdom of the wicked is far from me.

17Even still, how often are the wicked stopped in their tracks by calamity that befalls them, for God also distributes pains and sorrows to them, in His anger. 18They are blown about and carried away by the wind as chaff. 19But, God stores up the iniquity of the wicked man, to put upon his children. Rather let God recompense it to the wicked man himself and let him realize it. 20Then his eyes shall see his own destruction and he shall taste the wrath of the Almighty. 21And there shall be no pleasure in his house after the number of his months are cut off?

22For no one shall teach God knowledge, seeing that He judges those that are high. 23For one dies unaware and suddenly in the strength of his youth, being at peace. 24While still in full health and vitality. 25Yet, another dies in the bitterness of his soul and never eats with pleasure. 26And they both lie down in the dust, to be eaten by the worms.

27For I do know your thoughts that you wrongfully come against me with. 28Wondering to yourselves; Where is the house of the noble Job and the simple tent that the wicked man dwelt in? 29Have you not inquired of them who know and do you not accept their evidence. 30That the wicked man is spared in the day of calamity and judgment shall be given in the day of wrath. 31No one rebukes the evil to their face or attempts to repay their actions. 32But he is given an elaborate burial. 33Even the gave shall be sweet to him and he shall be honored and respected by the multitude of those before him in the grave. 34Why do you comfort me with your false and empty words.

Job: chapter 22
Eliphaz the Temanite speaks a third time to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Eliphaz the Temanite spoke again to Job, saying; 2Can even the wise man, who is profitable to himself, be profitable unto God? 3Does it please the Almighty that you are righteous, or is it gain to Him that you make your ways perfect?

4Do you think it is because of your reverential fear of Him, that He has entered into judgment with you? 5Is not your wickedness great and your iniquities infinite? 6For you have deceitfully taken pledges from your brothers, exploiting the needy. 7You have not given the weary water to drink, or bread to the hungry. 8For your circle consists of the rich and mighty and how you honor each other. 9You have sent widows away empty and have done nothing for the orphans. 10Therefore terrors and traps are all around you. 11Darkness surrounds you, so that you cannot see.

12For God is in Heaven, higher than the stars. 13And you wonder, what God knows, wondering if He can see and judge through the dark cloud? 14Thinking thick clouds are a barrier and keeps Him from seeing, as He walks the circuit of heaven. 15But you seem to be keeping the ways of the wicked men of old. 16Ways, that were before the time of Noah and these men's foundation were overtaken by a flood. 17For they said to God; Depart from us! What can the Almighty do for us? 18Even though they have filled their houses with sensual delights, but the counsel of the wicked is far from me.

19The righteous see this and are glad, while the innocent man laughs them to scorn. 20And the wicked have been cut off and their wealth has been consumed. 21So come to God and be at peace with Him, then good shall come to you.

22I pray that you will receive the law from His mouth and take His words into your heart. 23If you do return to the Almighty, you shall be built up and your iniquities shall be far from you. 24Then you shall become prosperous and the finest gold shall be yours. 25Yes, the Almighty would be your defense. 26Then your face shall be lifted up and your delight shall be in the Almighty. 27When you pray to Him, He shall hear you, then shall you be acceptable to Him. 28When you decree a thing, it shall be established and all your ways shall be blessed. 29As other men are cast down, you shall be lifted up, for He shall save the humble. 30He will even deliver the ones you intercede for, they will be delivered through the cleanliness of your hands.

Job: chapter 23
Job's reply to Eliphaz the Temanite, (two chapters).

1Then Job answered and said; 2Even today my compliant is bitter, for my infliction is heavier than my groaning. 3If I but knew where I might find God, I would go directly to His throne. 4Present my case before Him and plead my argument. 5I would then learn and understand His words. 6Would He plead against me with His great power? No! Rather He would strengthen me. 7There the righteous reason with Him and I would be forever acquitted by my Judge.

8For when I now look for Him, I cannot perceive Him. 9I seek Him to the north, where He works, but I cannot find Him. 10However, He knows my path and when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold. 11For I have held fast in His steps, I have not failed to keep His way. 12Neither have I transgressed His commandments and I have esteemed and treasured the words of His mouth more than my physical food. 13But He is of one mind, unmoved by outside influences. For He does what His soul desires. 14For He carries out the thing that He has planned for me and is mindful of many such matters.

15Therefore, when I consider all that happened, I am troubled at His presence and afraid of Him. 16 For God has made my heart faint and the Almighty troubles me. 17 Because I yet live being exposed to grim darkness.

Job: chapter 24

1Since the times are not hidden from the Almighty, why don't those who know Him see His wrath against the wicked? 2Those who deceive and steal, 3from orphans and mislead widows. 4Overpowering the needy, to where the poor of the earth all hide in flight. 5Just as a wild beast in the wilderness, rising early for their work of hunting for prey, for them and for their children. 6everyone reaps the harvest of another man's field. 7They cause the homeless to lodge without clothing, having no covering in the cold. 8Exposed and wet, they cling to the rocks for lack of shelter.

9These violent men gather together and steal men to sell as slaves, accepting their false pledge. 10Causing the needy to be without clothing and the hungry to labor in vain. 11For the rich food and drink they make via forced labor, they still suffer hunger and thirst. 12Men's wounded souls within the city groan and cry out, yet God does not regard the wrongs done to them.

13These men rebel against the light, they do not know God's ways, nor do they walk in them. 14The murderer rise with the light, to kill the poor and needy, like a thief in the night. 15Also the eye of the adulterer moves at twilight, disguising his face. 16In the dark they pillage houses they had marked for themselves, and they do not know the light of day. 17For the morning is to them as the shadow of death.

18These men swiftly pass away on the sea and on the earth their portion is cursed. 19Those who have sinned are then consumed by the grave. 20He shall be no longer remembered, the worm shall feed off him and his wickedness shall come to an end. 21For he had ill-treated the baron woman and abused the widow woman. 22Yet God prolongs the days of the wicked, the mighty ones through His power. When they rise up, no man is sure of his life. 23Though God gives safety to them and they rest in it, yet His eyes watch their ways. 24They are exalted for a little while, but in the end are cut down and brought low. 25If this is not so, who can say differently and make my words void?

Job: chapter 25
Bildad the Shuhite speaks a third time to Job, (one chapter).

1Then Bildad the Shuhite spoke to Job again, saying; 2Dominion and fear are with God, He brings His peace to His high places. 3Can anyone count the multitudes of His armies and does His light not shine on them all? 4How then can mortal man be clean and justified with God? 5Compared to God's glory, the moon has no brightness, nor are the stars pure in His sight. 6How much less is man - as a maggot, or self-righteous man - as a worm?

Job: chapter 26
Job's reply to Bildad the Shuhite, (one chapter).

1But Job answered and said; 2How have you helped the powerless, or saved them who have no strength? 3Have you declared your wise plans to the unwise? 4Whom have you advised? And by what spirit do you speak from?

5Even the departed spirits tremble under the waters, together with those who dwell in them. 6Hell is totally exposed before God, there is no covering for destruction. 7For God's wisdom stretches over the empty place and He placed the earth in its obit. 8He binds up the waters in thick clouds. 9He covers the face of his throne and spreads a cloud upon it. 10He has divided the waters within their boundaries, until day and night come to an end. 11Even the pillars of heaven quake and are astonished at his rebuke. 12The seas have been divided by His power and by His understanding He breaks the proud. 13For by His Spirit He has beautified the heavens and His hand has pierced the serpent. 14This is but a small portion of His ways, but who can understand the thunder of His power?

Job: chapter 27
Job's final concussion, (five chapters).

1Moreover Job continued his parable, saying; 2As God lives, whom has denied me justice and has troubled my soul. 3While I am yet alive, having the breath of God in my nostrils. 4I will not speak deceit or untruth. 5God forbid that I should agree with your accusations, I will hold onto my integrity until I die. 6I will hold fast to my righteousness, for my heart does not reproach me.

7My enemies are as the wicked and they that rise up against me as the unrighteous. 8For what is the hope of the hypocrite, what has he realty gained, when God takes away his own soul? 9Will God hear his cry when trouble comes to him? 10Will he always call upon God and delight himself in the Almighty?

11I will teach you by the hand of God. 12You have all seen these truths for yourselves, why then are your words so vain? 13This is the just reward and the inheritance of a wicked and cruel man with God the Almighty. 14If his children do multiply, it is but for the sword. 15When his children that do remain die and are buried, there shall be no weeping. 16Even though he has numerous riches and many costly clothes. 17Though he has labored for it, the just shall take the clothes and the innocent shall divide the riches. 18He built an elaborate home without a foundation and therefore, it will only last for a season. 19The rich man lies down with his wealth, but wakes up poor. 20Terrors surrounds him and carries him away in the night. 21The destructive east wind carries him far off, as an unexpected storm. 22For God will bring this upon him, without sparing him. 23And God will cause, men to hiss at him and drive him from his place.

Job: chapter 28

1Now men have found veins of silver and they know where gold can be found. 2They know how to mine for iron and smelt cooper out of stones. 3Men search to the furthest bounds of the earth for the ore within the gloom and the darkness. 4They drill shafts in remote places, risking their very life as they enter into them. 5On the surface of the earth, men plant grain and produce breads and under the earth ores are mined and refined in the fire. 6Precious stone of sapphires are found among the rocks. 7The birds of the air do not know of these things, neither do the vulture's eyes see such. 8Wild animals are oblivious to these underground riches. 9Man mines the rocks and cuts through the mountains. 10He dams up the rivers, so that he can see every precious thing. 11Controlling the flow of the streams, so to bring everything to light.

12But where can wisdom be found and where is the place of understanding? 13Man does not know the price of wisdom, neither is it found in the land of the living. 14It is not within the seas or the depth of the earth. 15It cannot be bought, neither can a monetary price be put upon it. 16It cannot be compared to the finest of gold. 17Earthly treasures cannot equal it. 18For the price of wisdom is above all treasures. 19Treasures of the orient cannot not equal it.

20Then where does wisdom come from and where is the place of understanding? 21For it is hidden from the eyes of all living. 22Even those in the grave, have only heard the fame of it. 23God alone understands and knows the place of understanding. 24For He looks to the ends of the earth and knows of all that's under the heavens. 25As He has commanded the winds and poured out the waters by measure. 26Making a course for the rains and for the lightning and thunder. 27Then did He see wisdom, declare it and searched it out. 28And said to man; The fear of the Lord, is wisdom and to depart from evil is understanding.

Job: chapter 29

1Moreover, Job continued his parable, saying; 2Oh how I wish for the days past, when God preserved me. 3When His candle shined as a light to my eyes and I walked through the darkness. 4As I was in the prime of my youth, with the friendship and counsel of God upon my tent. 5When the Almighty was still with me and my children were around me. 6When I was productive and prosperous.

7In those days, I gave my counsel in the city gate. 8The young men hid themselves from me and the aged men gave me honor. 9When I spoke, the leaders refrained from talking. 10The nobles held their peace and were silent. 11Yes, when I spoke, I was happy and blessed and everything gave witness to this. 12Because I delivered the poor, the orphans and those who were alone. 13The blessing of the needy came upon me and I caused the widow's heart to sing for joy. 14I was clothed in righteousness and justice, as wearing a crown. 15Giving out advice to the blind and lame. 16A father to the poor, studying out each of their causes. 17I was hard on the wicked, demanding justice and that they make good their debt. 18After these days, I was looking forward to many days and dying in a good old age. 19A life well lived, that had touched many. 20For my honor was fresh in me, being constantly renewed.

21Men listened to me and kept silence at my counsel. 22After my words were spoken, they did not speak again. 23They waited for my gracious words and took all of them in. 24And when I smiled kindly on them, even when they had given up hope. 25For I chose their way for them, sitting as chief and dwelling as a king giving comfort to the mourners.

Job: chapter 30

1But, now the younger, scoff at me and hold me in derision, whose fathers are so despicable that I would not have wanted them to feed my dogs. 2I thought, how could the strength of their hands ever profit me? They were men in whom youthful vigor had perished. 3They were gaunt men of want, for they had known famine and solitary. For they had fled into the wilderness in former times. 4Living off the land and scavenging what they could. 5They were such scandalous men, they were even driven out from the desolate places, as one would drive out a thief. 6So they dwelt in the cliffs of the valleys and in caves. 7Amsted the bushes they gathered and howl like wild animals. 8They were children of fools, without names and driven from the land.

9And now I am their reason for sport and their mockery. 10They abhor me, fleeing from me and they do not resist from spitting in my face. 11Because God has afflicted and humbled me, they have also let down their restraint before me. 12They raise up against me and knock me off of my feet, coming against me with the ways of their destruction. 13They hinder my path, critiquing my plans and encouraging my calamity. 14Coming against me with a flood of vengeance. Yes, in my desolation they came upon me. 15And terrifying my soul as the wind.

16My days are now spent, my soul is poured out, for the days of my affection have taken hold of me. 17My bones constantly ache in the night and the pains that gnaw at me are unceasing. 18By the greatest of distress is my garment changed, for it is bound around me. 19For God has cast me into the mire and I have become as dust and ashes. 20I cry to Him and He does not answer me, I stand, but He does not regard me. 21He has become cruel to me, for by His strong hand He opposes me. 22Letting me ride high on the wind for a season, then to take away all my substance. 23For I know that He will bring me to death and to the house appointed for all the living.

24But will He stretch out His hand to the ruin-heap, even though we cry of our misfortune? 25Did not I weep for him that was in trouble and my soul was grieved for the poor? 26As I looked for good, evil came to me and when I waited for light, the darkness came to me. 27My heart is troubled and I find no rest, for my affliction is here. 28I mourn in the darkness, I stood and cried in the congregation. 29I am now a brother and a companion to jackals and wild beasts that go about howling. 30My skin falls from me in blackened scales and my bones feel burned with heat. 31Any joy I once had, has turned into mourning and weeping.

Job: chapter 31

1I have made a covenant with my eyes, not to look lustfully upon a girl. 2For what would be my portion from God, if I were perverse, (morally corrupt)? Therefore, what might be my inheritance from the Almighty on high? 3Do not the perverse and workers of iniquity fall into disasters? 4Has not He seen my ways and counted all my steps?

5If I have walked within falsehood being vain, or if my foot has run to deceit. 6Let me be weighed in a just balance, that God may know my integrity. 7Whether my walk has turned from God, or my heart has walked after eyes of the flesh, or if any guilt has stained my hands. 8If that is so, then let me work and labor for another.

9If my heart has been deceived by a woman, or if I coveted my neighbor's wife. 10Then let my wife serve others and let others bow down on top of her. 11Yes, adultery is a wicked crime, an iniquity, punishable by the judges. 12It is a fire that consumes until all my increase is destroyed.

13If I have ignored any complaints of my servants. 14How then shall I answer God when He visits me? 15Did not God that made me in the womb also made my servants?

16If I have withheld from meting the needs of the poor, or have given the widow woman false promises. 17Or have refused to share my bread with the orphans. 18For the orphans have grown up with me and I as their father, also have I guided the widows from early on. 19If I have seen any perish for want of clothing, or any poor go without covering. 20Have not the poor blessed me, for I have warmed them with the fleece from my sheep. 21If I have lifted up my hand against the orphans, when I knew that the other judges would favor my way. 22Then let my arm fall away and be dislocated from the bone. 23For calamity from God is terrorization to me and by reason of His majesty, I am not able to endure.

24If I have made gold or treasures my hope and confidence. 25If I have rejoiced because my wealth was great, taking pride in my ability to acquire much. 26If I worshiped the sun or the moon in their glories. 27And my heart has become secretly enticed, in idol worship. 28Committing this iniquity, denying that God is above, would also be an offence punishable by law.

29If I rejoiced when evil and destruction came to him that hated me. 30Nor have I sinned by speaking a curse to anyone's soul. 31Just ask the men of my household, they will tell you, that there is not one needy person who has not been satisfied. 32The stranger did not lodge in the street, for my doors were opened to the traveler.

33Have I covered my transgressions as Adam, by concealing my iniquities within me. 34Because I fear great multitudes, I keep silent. 35Oh that the Almighty would hear and answer me! That my adversary would write out his accusations against me. 36Surely I would bear the disdain of it. 37I would declare unto him every detail of my life, approaching his presence with all respect.

38If my land cry against me, of acquiring it improperly through fraud. 39Or have eaten of the land without making payment, or have taken away the owner's life. 40Let then thistles grow instead of wheat and weeds instead of barley.
The controversial words of Job are ended.

Job: chapter 32
The speech and the wrath of Elihu, (six chapters).

1So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. 2Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, who had been there then spoke. For his wrath was then kindled, because Job justified himself rather than God. 3Elihu's wrath was also against his three friends, because they were unable to show Job his real error, yet they had condemned Job. (NOTE: Elihu's name means: God is Jehovah)

4Elihu had waited until Job had spoken, because they were all older than he was. 5Now when he saw that these three men presented no answer, his wrath was kindled. 6And Elihu answered and said; Because I am young and you are all older, I restrained from speaking my opinion. 7I was waiting for the elders to speak and teach their wisdom. 8For I thought surely the Almighty has given to them a spirit of understand. 9But, great men are not always wise, neither do the older always understand justice.

10Therefore, hear my voice and I will speak my opinion. 11I waited until all was said and listened to your reasons, as you searched out what to say. 12Yes, I have attentively paid attention, but none of you could convince Job, by replying to his words. 13Least you should stumble upon wisdom. God has justly thrust Job down, not man. 14Job has not directed his words against me and I have no cause for retribution, nor will I answer him with speeches such as yours.

15And the three other men were amassed, embarrassed and speechless. 16Shall I then become speechless as these three have? 17I shall also speak my part and declare to you my wisdom. 18For I am filled with words and the spirit within me compels me to speak. 19For the pressure within me is great and I must release it. 20Therefore, I shall speak, that I shall be refreshed. 21But let me say; I will not be influenced by any man, nor will I speak flattering words. 22For I know that if I give out flattering words, my Maker would soon take me away.

Job: chapter 33

1I pray that you Job will hear what I have to say and hearken to all my words. 2At last, I speak and what I say has been carefully thought out. 3My words shall express the uprightness of my heart and my lips shall speak forth knowledge clearly. 4For the Spirit of God has made me and the breath of the Almighty has given me life. 5If you can answer me, then prepare your words and state your argument. 6I am before God even as you are, for we are both made of the same clay. 7Don't let my alarm frighten you for it is of man and not God, neither let my burden be heavy on you.

8Yes, I have heard all that you have said. 9You have said that you are innocent, being clean without transgression or iniquities. 10That God has found an occasion against you and considers you now as His enemy. 11That He has bound up your feet and how He examines all of your ways.

12Because of what you said, you are not just. For God is greater than man. 13Why do you contend against Him? For He does not give us account of any of His matters. 14For God does reveal His will, He speaks once and even twice, yet man does not perceive it. 15In dreams and visions of the night, when deep sleep comes upon men. 16Then He reveals to men and their instructions. 17That He might turn man back from his own prideful purpose. 18God keeps a man's own soul from his own self destruction and man's life from perishing by God's own judgment.

19God's voice may be heard by men when he is chastened with pain upon his head. 20Allowing his physical life to be in shambles, to where he abhors rich indulgent foods. 21To the point where man's flesh wastes away and his bones are clearly visible. 22Yes, his soul comes close to the grave, for his life has been given over to the destroyers.

23God's voice may then be heard if there is a mediator, one among a thousand, to declare to man how to achieve his right standing with God. 24Then God will be gracious to him, delivering him from going down to the pit. For an atonement has been made. 25Man's flesh shall then be restored to the days of his youth. 26And he shall pray to God and will be accepted. Then shall God restore to man his righteousness. 27He shall then testify to other men, how he had sinned and it profited him not. 28For his soul will be delivered from the pit and he shall now see the light. 29This is the way God works with man, over and over again. 30Bringing mans soul from the pit, to be enlightened with the light of the living.

31Mark my words Job, heed my instruction, hold your peace and I will speak on. 32But if you have any questions, ask me, for I desire to justify you. 33If not, hold your peace and listen to me and I shall teach you wisdom.

Job: chapter 34

1Furthermore, Elihu spoke, saying: 2Hear my words, you wise men and you that have so much knowledge. 3For the ear must discern words, just as the mouth discerns foods. 4Lets choose for ourselves what is right and know what is good.

5For Job has said; I am innocent and righteous and God has taken away my rights. 6Should I lie without cause? My wound is incurable and I am without transgression.

7Have you ever heard anything like this, is there another man like Job, who joyfully takes scorning from others? 8Whom walks with the workers of iniquity and the wicked men. 9For he has said, It profits a man nothing that he should delight himself with God.

10Therefore listen to me you men of understanding; Keep in mind that it is far from God the Almighty that He should do wickedness or commit iniquity. 11For a man's work, He will repay to him according to his ways. 12Yes, God the Almighty will not do wickedly, neither will He pervert judgment. 13Whom other than God has charge over the whole earth? 14For if God sets His heart on man and gathers to Himself man's spirit and his breath, 15All flesh would perish and man shall turn back unto but dust.

16If you have understanding of this, listen further to my words. 17Shall one who perverts what is right govern, condemning God who is just and mighty? 18Is it proper to say to a king, you are wicked, or to his nobles, you are ungodly? 19How much less to Him who does not regard the status of man? For they are all the work of His hands. 20For without notice they shall die, the people shall tremble and pass away, for the mighty shall be swept away.

21For God's eyes are upon all the ways of man. 22There is no hiding your iniquities from Him. 23But God does not impose on man a time to go before Him in judgment. 24For He shall break in pieces mighty men and set others in their place. 25Thus He knows their works and overturns them in the night, leaving them destroyed. 26Striking them as wicked men in plain view of others. 27Because they turned astray from Him, refusing to consider His ways. 28For they caused the poor to cry out to God and God hears the cries of the afflicted. 29When God provides His peace, who can go against it? Likewise, if He chooses to hide His presence, who could then behold Him? This holds true whether it be for a man or a nation. 30That ungodly men may not reign and become snares to the people.

31Surely it should be said unto God; Because I bear chastisement, I will not offend any more. 32Confess to me of your hidden actions and if you have done iniquity, do them no more. 33Will God recompense according to your mind, because you have simply refuse to accept it? It must be according to His plan, it is your choice. I cannot choose for you, it must be your choice. 34Yes, every wise man of understanding will agree with me. 35Job, you have spoken without knowledge and your words were without wisdom. 36My desire is that Job's affection may continue and he be tried to the end, because of his unwise wicked statements. 37For he has also added rebellion to his sin, multiplying his transgressions against God.

Job: chapter 35

1Elihu spoke again, saying; 2How can you think in your heart and say, my righteousness is greater than God's? 3And then you say, what advantage will it be to me and what profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin?

4I will speak to both, you and your companions. 5Look at the heavens and see the clouds high in the sky. 6If you sin, what have you done against Him, or if your transgressions be multiplied, what have you done against Him? 7If you are righteous, what have you given Him, or what has He received from your hand? 8One's actions come back to you, wickedness will harm you and righteousness will profit you, but they do not touch God, whom is above such things.

9Because of the violence of the mighty, the multitudes who are oppressed cry out. 10But no one says; Where is God my Creator, who gives songs in the night. 11Who teach us more than the beasts of the earth and makes us wiser than the birds of the air? 12Even though the people cry out, He gives no answer, because of the pride of the evil men. 13Surely God the Almighty will not hear and regard vain words. 14Although you say you do not behold Him, Judgment is His and you wait for Him. 15Because His anger has not instantly been seen, by the guilty. 16Therefore, Job you have opened your mouth in vain, speaking words without knowledge.

Job: chapter 36

1Elihu continued speaking, saying; 2Bear with me a little while longer and I will speak words on God's behalf. 3This knowledge I have gathered from the first principles and the highest notions and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker. 4My words shall be true, for He that is perfect in knowledge is with me.

5Note that God is mighty in strength and wisdom and despises no one or counts anything to be trivial. 6He does not prolong the life of the wicked, but does give justice to the poor and affected. 7He does not take His eyes off of the righteous, but honors them, promoting them to high places. 8Now, if they are bound in adversative and under affliction. 9He will then make known to them their transgressions and how they have fallen, because of their pride. 10He will teach them discipline, commanding that they return from their iniquity. 11If they obey and serve Him, they will spend their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures. 12But if they do not obey Him, they shall perish by God's destructive judgment and they shall die without true knowledge.

13But the ungodly and profane become angry with God's discipline and they do not cry out to Him when He puts affliction on them. 14They die at an early age, along with the unclean. 15But He deliverers the afflicted in their affliction and speaks to them in their oppression. 16Bringing them from their place of distress and He will set a table of blessing for them.

17But, Job, you have fulfilled the deeds of the wicked, may judgment and justice take hold of you. 18Don't let your wrath take hold of you so that you reject your chastisement that you need to rightly endure. 19Will your cry of distress, or all the resources of your strength, be sufficient to escape out of this. 20Desire not even the stillness of the night and the cover of darkness, for there is no escaping from the righteous judgment of God. 21Turn not to yet further iniquity by your complaining against God, but rather submit to the affliction He has given you. 22For God is exalted and teaches us through His power. 23Has anybody ever set His course before Him, or can anybody correct Him?

24Keep in mind that we all magnify God's work, which men behold and sing about. 25Every man sees the works of God, whether from near or afar. 26For God is great and we do not comprehend Him, nor can we search Him out. 27He draws up the water from the seas. 28And the clouds distil the waters, dropping rain on man, in abundance. 29Can anyone understand the diffusions of the clouds, or the thunders of this covering? 30When He spreads His lightening across the sky and the light reaches to the bottom of the sea. 31For by these things, in His judgment, He gives food to the people. 32By the clouds he can cover the light, commanding His lightening to hit its mark. 33The thunders speak of His concerns and the cattle are aware of His coming storm.

Job: chapter 37

1At these thunders and lightening, my heart trembles. 2Hearing the roar of His voice and the rumblings of the heavens. 3And His lightning covers the whole earth. 4After the lightening, He thunders with the voice of His majesty. 5God does great things with His thunders, that we cannot comprehend. 6For He also commands the snow, likewise, the small and the great rain of its strength. 7With His weather, He can stop the work of every man, that every man may know His doings. 8The beasts remain in their dens. 9Out of the south comes the winds and the cold air out of the north. 10It is by the breath of God that frost is given and by His breath the waters are frozen solid. 11He fills the clouds with moisture and scatters the clouds of His lightning. 12And through this, He turns about the whole earth through His guidance, that man shall do whatever, He commands of them while on the earth. 13Whether it be for personal correction, or for His land, or of mercy, He causes it to come.

14Job, hear my words and consider the wondrous works of God. 15Do you know when God placed His storm clouds and caused the lightning of His cloud to shine? 16Do you know how the clouds were balanced in the heavens, the wonderful work of Him, which is perfect in knowledge? 17You don't even know how to keep cool on a hot day, 18Can you together with Him stretch out the sky, which is a vast expanse. 19Teach us what we should say to Him, for we cannot prepare our speech because of reason of darkness. 20Should it even be told to Him that we wish to speak? For if a man speaks, he will surely be swallowed up. 21For now men do not see the bright light, but God's divine plan still prevails. 22For golden spender comes from God's hand along with His awesome majesty. 23Reaching for the Almighty, we cannot find our questions. For He is exalted in power, judgment, overflowing in righteousness and He does no violence. 24Therefore men fear Him and know that He does not respect any man that feels he is wise of heart.

Job: chapter 38
God speaks to Job, (four chapters).

1Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said; 2It is Job, that confuses counsel speaking words without knowledge? 3Prepare yourself for an encounter, for that is what I will demand of you, that you answer Me.

4Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth, if you were there tell Me, if you have understanding of it? 5Do you know who determined the measurements of the earth, or who stretched the measuring line upon it? 6On what are the foundations of the earth fastened to and who laid its corner stone? 7Were you there at creation, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God (the angels), shouted for joy?

8Who held the sea back, as with a door, when it broke forth from birth? 9Were you there when I made the coverings for the clouds and gave them bands of thick darkness. 10Setting limits on them, even using bars and doors to do so, Jeremiah 5:22. 11For I said to them; You shall come this far and no further, your proud waves shall stop here.

12Within your days, have you ever commanded the morning, causing the dawn to know its place? 13That it might reach across the whole earth that by its light the wickedness of night might be shaken out? 14The shapes and colors of the earth then stand forth as a garment. 15And this light exposes the wicked and they shall be deprived of their power to perform evil.

16Have you explored the bottoms of the sea, or have you searched out its depth? 17Have the gates of death been opened to you, have you even seen the doors of the shadow of death? 18Have you comprehended the full expanse of the earth? Tell Me if you understand this.

19Do you know of the place where light dwells and the place of darkness. 20That you should know of its boundary and the paths to its house? 21You must know of these things! For were not you born during these times and your days are great?

22Have you seen the treasuries of snow, or the treasuries of hail? 23That I have held back for the time of trouble, for the day of battle and war? 24Tell me how the light is distributed and how the east wind blows upon the earth?

25Who do you think has prepared a way for the torrents of rain and a path for the lightening and thunder? 26Causing it to rain on the earth, in the wilderness, where no man is. 27Satisfying the desolate waste ground, causing the bud of the tender herb to spring forth? 28Does the rain have a father? And who do you think has begotten drops of dew? 29Who gave birth to the ice and the legendary frost of the heavens? 30For the waters are hidden as a stone and the face of the deep is frozen.

31Can you bind or loose the stars from their orbits, or tighten them within their consolations? 32Can you bring forth the consolations in their seasons, or guide the stars in their orbits 33Do you know the ways and laws of the heaven, can you establish their ways upon the earth?

34Can you speak to the clouds and tell them to cover you with an abundance of water? 35Can you direct and command the lightning? 36Who do you think has put wisdom in these things and given them understanding? 37Who has the wisdom to number the clouds, or who can empty out the jars of heaven, 38when the ground of the earth becomes hard and dry.

39Can you Job, hunt prey for the lion and meet the appetites of the young lions, 40As they couch in their dens, waiting and stalking their prey? 41Who do you think provides for the raven with his food, when his young ones cry unto God, wandering about for lack of meat.

Job: chapter 39

1Do you know the time when the wild mountain goats bring forth their young? Do you observe the calving of deer? Do you attend all this Job? 2Can you number the months that they carry, or do you know the time when they will give birth? 3When they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows. 4Their young ones become strong, growing up in the open field and when they go forth, they do not return.

5Who has freed the wild donkey? Or who has loosed the bands of the wild donkey, by which his tame brother is bound? 6To whom I have assigned the wilderness and barren lands for its home. 7He overlooks the workers of the city, neither does the wild donkey heed the shouting of the driver. 8The mountain ranges are his pasture and every green thing becomes his food.

9Will the wild ox be willing to serve you, or spend the night by your barn? 10Can you harness the wild ox to your plow, that he will he till the fields for you? 11Do you dare trust him, because his strength is great, will you leave your tasks to him? 12Trusting that he will bring home his labors and you may gather them into your barn?

13I gave beautiful wing feathers to the peacocks and wings to the ostrich? 14That buries her eggs in the earth, warmed by the dust. 15Disregarding that a foot may crush them, or a wild beast might break them. 16For she is hardened against her young ones, as though they were not hers, her labor is in vain for she has no fear. 17Because I, God have deprived her of wisdom and have not given her understanding. 18But when she runs, she leaves the horse and his rider behind.

19Job, have you given the horse strength, have you clothed his neck with a thunderous mane? 20Was it you who made him leap like a locust? The glory of his snorting is terrifying. 21In the valley he rejoices in his strength and then goes on to fight the battles of war. 22He disregards fear and does not turn back from the sword. 23Carrying weapons he goes off. 24He swiftly covers the ground and the sound of the war trumpet does not phase him. 25For he laughs at the possible danger, as he smells the excitement of the battle.

26Is it by your wisdom Job, that the hawk flies, stretching out her wings? 27Does the eagle mount up at your command, to make her nest on high? 28He dwells on the cliff of the rock, in the strong place. 29From there he seeks out his prey, that his eyes spot from far off. 30The young ones also suck the blood of the slain, for where the slain fall, there he is.

Job: chapter 40

1Moreover, the LORD spoke to Job, saying; 2Shall he that finds fault with the Almighty instruct Him? Let him that reproves God, answer!

3Job then answered the LORD, saying; 4I am of small account and vile, what shall I answer You? I will speak no more. 5What I have spoken, I will not speak again, I will speak no further.

6Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said; 7Prepare yourself as a man, I will ask of you and you shall answer Me. 8Are you going to condemn Me and My judgments, so that you can justify yourself? 9Do you have an arm like God, or can you thunder with a voice such as Mine? 10Since you question My rule, adorn yourself with majesty and array yourself with glory and beauty. 11Unleash your wrath, looking upon everyone who is proud and abase him. 12Bringing all who are proud low and treading down the wicked in their place. 13Burying them in the dust and shutting them into utter darkness. 14If you can do all this Job, then I shall acknowledge that your own right hand can save you.

15Now consider the hippopotamus, that I made along with you, he eats grass like an ox. 16His strength is in his core and his force is in his muscles within. 17His tail is as a tree trunk and his tendons are twisted together as a rope. 18His bones are bars of iron, as strong as brass. 19He is a powerful work of God and only He who made his sword like tusks, can also bring him near to master him. 20The grasses mountains, where the wild animals play, bring forth his food. 21He lies under the lotus trees, in the marsh among the reeds. 22The willows of the brook covers him with shade. 23Even if a flood prevails, he stands unmoved, feeling safe even if the Jordan river swells up into his mouth. 24Shall any man capture him, before his eyes, or put a cord through his nose?

Job: chapter 41

1Can you draw out leviathan, (NOTE: could be a crocodile, a whale, a dragon or sea serpent), with a hook? Or pierce his jaw with a spike? 2Can you put a hook through his nose or his jaw? 3Will he plea with you not to harm him, speaking gentle and flattering words? 4Will he make a covenant with you, will you take him as your servant forever? 5Will you play with him as a pet, or put him on a leash and take him for walks? 6Or display him in the market place and have merchants buy pieces of him? 7Can you even began to fill his skin or his head with harpoons? 8Would you place your hand on him, remembering the battle, why would you even do such a thing? 9The hope of taking him is in vain, will you not be cut down before him for trying. 10The one that dares to stir him up is fierce and foolhardy, who is then able to stand before Me? 11Has anyone proceeded Me or given to Me, that I should repay him? All that is under the heaven are Mine.

12I will not keep silent concerning his mighty strength, or the grace of his frame. 13Who can take off the surface of his skin? or harness his power? 14Who can open his jaws, his month is filled with fierce teeth. 15His scales are his pride, closely seal together. 16Placed so closely together, that no air can pass between them. 17Joined one to another and stuck together, where they cannot be separated. 18His sneezing flash forth light and his eyes are like the eyelids of the dawn. 19From his mouth, sparks of fire leap out. 20And smoke from his nostrils. 21His breath can kindle coals, for a flame goes out of his mouth. 22There is strength in his neck and he reigns terror before him. 23The folds of his flesh are joined together so firmly, they do not shake when he moves. 24His heart is cast hard as a millstone. 25When he raises himself up, even the mighty are afraid. 26Weapons such as the spear, the dart, or the javelin have no hold on him. 27Iron is as straw to him and brass as rotten wood. 28Arrows do not make him retreat. 29Darts and stones hurled at him are counted as stubble and he laughs at the threatening of a spear. 30His body armor is as sharp stones and he spreads sharp groves in the ground. 31He makes the deep to boil as a pot and the sea becomes as a pot of ointment. 32He leave a trail of light shining after him, as if the deep was foaming. 33On earth there is not his likeness, who is made without fear. 34He looks over all high things and is king over all the children of pride.

Job: chapter 42
Job's repentance & God's abundant blessings, (one chapter).

1Then Job replied to the LORD, saying:

2I know that you can do all things and that no thought can be withheld from You. 3You have said to me, who is this that confuses counsel without knowledge? Therefore, I have spoken words that I did not understand, things too wonderful for me. 4I pray that You will hear me, let me ask of You and You will cause me to understand. 5I have learned of You only through the physical ear, but now my spiritual eyes will see You. 6Therefore I despise myself and the words I spoke and repent in dust and ashes.

7And it happened, that after the LORD had spoken these words to Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, (NOTE; Job's first friend to speak); My wrath is kindled against you and against your two companions. For you have not spoken rightly of Me, as My servant Job has. 8Therefore take seven bulls and seven rams and go to My servant Job. Offer a burnt offering for yourselves and My servant Job will pray for you. His prayers I will accept on your behalf, lest I deal with you after your folly, for you have not spoken rightly of Me, as My servant Job has. 9So the three companions, (Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar), did according as the LORD commanded them and the LORD accepted Job prayers on their behalf.

10And when Job prayed for his friends, the LORD took away the captivity of Job. Also, the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before. 11Then all his brethren and sisters who had known him before came to him and ate bread with him in his house. Consoling and comforting him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him. Every man also gave him a piece of money and an earring of gold.

12The LORD then blessed Job and Job's latter end was greater than his beginning. For Job had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, one thousand yoke of oxen and one thousand female donkeys. 13He had also seven sons and three daughters. 14Of the daughters born to him, he called the name of the first, Jemima, (NOTE: meaning: day, or bright as day), the name of the second, Kezia, (NOTE: meaning: cassia an aromatic herb, expressing the beauty of Job's daughter) and the third, Keren-happuch, (NOTE: meaning: horn of antimony the pigment used to darken ladies eyelashes, to highlight their eyes). 15In all the land, there was not a woman as fair as the daughters of Job and their father gave them inheritance along with their brethren. 16After this, Job lived one hundred forty years and saw his sons and his sons' sons, down to the fourth generation. 17And Job died, being old and full of days.