17. Listen diligently to my speech, and let my declaration be in your ears.
18. Behold now, I have prepared my case; I know that I shall be justified and vindicated.
19. Who is he who will argue against and refute me? For then I would hold my peace and expire.
20. Only [O Lord] grant two conditions to me, and then will I not hide myself from You:
21. Withdraw Your hand and take this bodily suffering far from me; and let not my [reverent] dread of You terrify me.
22. Then [Lord] call and I will answer, or let me speak, and You answer me.
23. How many are my iniquities and sins [that so much sorrow should come to me]? Make me recognize and know my transgression and my sin. [Rom. 8:1.]
24. Why do You hide Your face [as if offended] and alienate me as if I were Your enemy?
25. Will You harass and frighten a [poor, helpless] leaf driven to and fro, and will You pursue the chaff of the dry stubble?
26. For You write bitter things against me [in Your bill of indictment] and make me inherit and be accountable now for the iniquities of my youth.