³ But I desire to speak to the Almighty^(A)
    and to argue my case with God.^(B)
4 You, however, smear me with lies;^(C)
    you are worthless physicians,^(D) all of you!^(E)
5 If only you would be altogether silent!^(F)
    For you, that would be wisdom.^(G)
6 Hear now my argument;
    listen to the pleas of my lips.^(H)
7 Will you speak wickedly on God’s behalf?
    Will you speak deceitfully for him?^(I)
8 Will you show him partiality?^(J)
    Will you argue the case for God?
⁹ Would it turn out well if he examined you?^(K)
    Could you deceive him as you might deceive a mortal?^(L)
10 He would surely call you to account
    if you secretly showed partiality.^(M)
11 Would not his splendor^(N) terrify you?
    Would not the dread of him fall on you?^(O)
12 Your maxims are proverbs of ashes;
    your defenses are defenses of clay.^(P)

¹⁵ Though he slay me, yet will I hope^(A) in him;^(B)
    I will surely^[a] defend my ways to his face.^(C)
16 Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance,^(D)
    for no godless^(E) person would dare come before him!^(F)
17 Listen carefully to what I say;^(G)
    let my words ring in your ears.
¹⁸ Now that I have prepared my case,^(H)
    I know I will be vindicated.^(I)