8. Even when I call out or cry for help,he shuts out my prayer.
9. He has barred my way with blocks of stone;he has made my paths crooked.
10. Like a bear lying in wait,like a lion in hiding,
11. he dragged me from the path and mangled meand left me without help.
12. He drew his bowand made me the target for his arrows.
13. He pierced my heartwith arrows from his quiver.
14. I became the laughing-stock of all my people;they mock me in song all day long.
15. He has filled me with bitter herbsand given me gall to drink.
16. He has broken my teeth with gravel;he has trampled me in the dust.
17. I have been deprived of peace;I have forgotten what prosperity is.
18. So I say, ‘My splendour is goneand all that I had hoped from the Lord.’