^{1 Ref} Then Zophar, the Naamathite, answered,

^{2 Ref} "Shouldn't the multitude of words be answered? Should a man full of talk be justified?

^{3 Ref} Should your boastings make men hold their peace? When you mock, shall no man make you ashamed?

^{4 Ref} For you say, 'My doctrine is pure, I am clean in your eyes.'

^{5 Ref} But oh that God would speak, And open his lips against you,

^{6 Ref} That he would show you the secrets of wisdom! For true wisdom has two sides. Know therefore that God exacts of you less than your iniquity deserves.

^{7 Ref} "Can you fathom the mystery of God? Or can you probe the limits of the Almighty?

^{8 Ref} They are high as heaven. What can you do? Deeper than Sheol: what can you know?

^{9 Ref} The measure of it is longer than the earth, And broader than the sea.

^{10 Ref} If he passes by, or confines, Or convenes a court, then who can oppose him?

^{11 Ref} For he knows false men. He sees iniquity also, even though he doesn't consider it.

^{12 Ref} But vain man can become wise If a man can be born as a wild donkey's colt.

^{13 Ref} "If you set your heart aright, Stretch out your hands toward him.

^{14 Ref} If iniquity is in your hand, put it far away, Don't let unrighteousness dwell in your tents.

^{15 Ref} Surely then shall you lift up your face without spot; Yes, you shall be steadfast, and shall not fear:

^{16 Ref} For you shall forget your misery; You shall remember it as waters that are passed away,

^{17 Ref} Life shall be clearer than the noonday; Though there is darkness, it shall be as the morning.

^{18 Ref} You shall be secure, because there is hope; Yes, you shall search, and shall take your rest in safety.

^{19 Ref} Also you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid; Yes, many shall court your favor.

^{20 Ref} But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, They shall have no way to flee; Their hope shall be the giving up of the spirit."