8. And if, bound in fetters, they be held in cords of affliction,
9. Then he sheweth them their work, and their transgressions, because they have increased.
10. And he openeth their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity.
11. If they hearken and serve him, they shall accomplish their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.
12. But if they hearken not, they shall pass away by the sword, and expire without knowledge.
13. But the godless in heart heap up anger; they cry not when he bindeth them:
14. Their soul dieth in youth, and their life is among the unclean.
15. But he delivereth the afflicted in his affliction, and openeth their ear in their oppression.
16. Even so would he have allured thee out of the jaws of distress into a broad place, where there is no straitness; and the supply of thy table would be full of fatness.
17. But thou art full of the judgments of the wicked: judgment and justice take hold on thee.
18. Because there is wrath, beware lest it take thee away through chastisement: then a great ransom could not avail thee.
19. Will he esteem thy riches? Not gold, nor all the resources of strength!
20. Desire not the night, when peoples are cut off from their place.
21. Take heed, turn not to iniquity; for this hast thou chosen rather than affliction.