^{16 Ref} I have no desire for life, I would not be living for ever! Keep away from me, for my days are as a breath.

^{17 Ref} What is man, that you have made him great, and that your attention is fixed on him,

^{18 Ref} And that your hand is on him every morning, and that you are testing him every minute?

^{19 Ref} How long will it be before your eyes are turned away from me, so that I may have a minute's breathing-space?

^{20 Ref} If I have done wrong, what have I done to you, O keeper of men? why have you made me a mark for your blows, so that I am a weariness to myself?

^{21 Ref} And why do you not take away my sin, and let my wrongdoing be ended? for now I go down to the dust, and you will be searching for me with care, but I will be gone.