¶“If there is an angel as a mediator for him,
One out of a thousand,
To explain to a man what is right for him [that is, how to be in right standing with God],
Then the angel is gracious to him, and says,
‘Spare him from going down to the pit [of destruction];
I have found a ransom [a consideration, or reason for redemption, an atonement]!’
“Let his flesh be restored and become fresher than in youth;
Let him return to the days of his youthful strength.
“He will pray to God, and He shall be favorable to him,
So that he looks at His face with joy;
For God restores to man His righteousness [that is, his right standing with God—with its joys].
“He sings out to other men,
‘I have sinned and perverted that which was right,
And it was not proper for me!
‘God has redeemed my life from going to the pit [of destruction],
And my life shall see the light.’ ”
¶[Elihu comments,] “Behold, God does all these things twice, yes, three times, with a man,
To bring his life back from the pit [of destruction],
That he may be enlightened with the light of the living.
“Pay attention, Job, listen to me;
Keep silent, and I will speak.
“If you have anything to say, answer me;
Speak, for I desire to justify you.
“If not [and you have nothing to say], listen to me;
Keep silent, and I will teach you wisdom.”