24-28. “Did I set my heart on making big moneyor worship at the bank?Did I boast about my wealth,show off because I was well-off?Was I ever so awed by the sun’s brillianceand moved by the moon’s beautyThat I let myself become seduced by themand worshiped them on the sly?If so, I would deserve the worst of punishments,for I would be betraying God himself.
29-30. “Did I ever crow over my enemy’s ruin?Or gloat over my rival’s bad luck?No, I never said a word of detraction,never cursed them, even under my breath.
31-34. “Didn’t those who worked for me say,‘He fed us well. There were always second helpings’?And no stranger ever had to spend a night in the street;my doors were always open to travelers.Did I hide my sin the way Adam did,or conceal my guilt behind closed doorsBecause I was afraid what people would say,fearing the gossip of the neighbors so muchThat I turned myself into a recluse?You know good and well that I didn’t.
35-37. “Oh, if only someone would give me a hearing!I’ve signed my name to my defense—let theAlmighty One answer!I want to see my indictment in writing.Anyone’s welcome to read my defense;I’ll write it on a poster and carry it around town.I’m prepared to account for every move I’ve ever made—to anyone and everyone, prince or pauper.