that you ask, ‘What advantage have I? How am I better off than if I had sinned?’
If I am wicked, woe to me! If I am righteous, I cannot lift up my head, for I am filled with disgrace and look upon my affliction.
What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? And what profit do we get if we pray to him?’
What would be my portion from God above, and my heritage from the Almighty on high?
For he has said, ‘It profits a man nothing that he should take delight in God.’
I will answer you and your friends with you.
If I sin, what do I do to thee, thou watcher of men? Why hast thou made me thy mark? Why have I become a burden to thee?
All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence.
You have said, ‘It is vain to serve God. What is the good of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the Lord of hosts?