16. I was a father to the needy; and the cause which I did not know I searched out.
17. And I broke the fangs of the wicked and caused their teeth to release the prey.
18. Then I said, I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand.
19. My root is spread out by the waters, and the dew shall remain upon my branches.
20. My glory is renewed with me, and my bow is renewed in my hand.
21. They would hear me and wait, and keep silent at my counsel.
22. After my words they would not reply, but my reason dropped upon them.
23. And they waited for me as for the rain, and they opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain.
24. If I laughed at them, they did not believe it; and they did not cast down the light of my countenance.
25. I approved their way and sat at the head and dwelt as a king in the army, as one that comforts the mourners.