4. ‘I have become a laughing-stock to my friends,though I called on God and he answered –a mere laughing-stock, though righteous and blameless!
5. Those who are at ease have contempt for misfortuneas the fate of those whose feet are slipping.
6. The tents of marauders are undisturbed,and those who provoke God are secure –those whom God has in his hand.
7. ‘But ask the animals, and they will teach you,or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you;
8. or speak to the earth, and it will teach you,or let the fish in the sea inform you.
9. Which of all these does not knowthat the hand of the Lord has done this?
10. In his hand is the life of every creatureand the breath of all mankind.
11. Does not the ear test wordsas the tongue tastes food?
12. Is not wisdom found among the aged?Does not long life bring understanding?
13. ‘To God belong wisdom and power;counsel and understanding are his.