21“His flesh wastes away from sight,
         And his bones which were not seen stick out.

22“Then his soul draws near to the pit,
         And his life to those who bring death.

23“If there is an angel as mediator for him,
         One out of a thousand,
         To remind a man what is right for him,

24Then let him be gracious to him, and say,
         ‘Deliver him from going down to the pit,
         I have found a ransom’;

25Let his flesh become fresher than in youth,
         Let him return to the days of his youthful vigor;

26Then he will pray to God, and He will accept him,
         That he may see His face with joy,
         And He may restore His righteousness to man.

27“He will sing to men and say,
         ‘I have sinned and perverted what is right,
         And it is not proper for me.

28‘He has redeemed my soul from going to the pit,
         And my life shall see the light.’

29“Behold, God does all these oftentimes with men,

30To bring back his soul from the pit,
         That he may be enlightened with the light of life.

31“Pay attention, O Job, listen to me;
         Keep silent, and let me speak.

32“Then if you have anything to say, answer me;
         Speak, for I desire to justify you.

33“If not, listen to me;
         Keep silent, and I will teach you wisdom.”

NASB ©1995