9. Not that you were unable to subdue the ungodly under the hand of the righteous in battle, Or by terrible beasts or by one stern word to make away with them at once;
10. But judging them by little and little you gave them a place of repentance, Not being ignorant that their nature by birth was evil, and their wickedness inborn, And that their manner of thought would in no wise ever be changed,
11. For they were a seed accursed from the beginning: Neither was it through fear of any that you did leave them then unpunished for their sins.
12. For who shall say, What have you done? Or who shall withstand your judgement? And who shall accuse you for the perishing of nations which you did make? Or who shall come and stand before you as an avenger for unrighteous men?
13. For neither is there any God beside you that careth for all, That you might show to him that you did not judge unrighteously:
14. Neither shall king or prince be able to look you in the face to plead for those whom you have punished.
15. But being righteous you rule all things righteously, Deeming it a thing alien from your power To condemn one that does not himself deserve to be punished.
16. For your strength is the beginning of righteousness, And your sovereignty over all makes you to forbear all.
17. For when men believe not that you are perfect in power, you show your strength, And in dealing with them that know it you put their boldness to confusion.
18. But you, being sovereign over your strength, judge in gentleness, And with great forbearance do you govern us; For the power is your whenever you have the will.
19. But you did teach your people by such works as these, How that the righteous must be a lover of men; And you did make your sons to be of good hope, Because you give repentance when men have sinned.
20. For if on them that were enemies of your servants and due to death You did take vengeance with so great heedfulness and indulgence, Giving them times and place whereby they might escape from their wickedness;