²⁰ The wicked man writhes with pain all his days,
^(A)And the number of years is hidden from the oppressor.
^21 [a]Dreadful sounds are in his ears;
^(B)In prosperity the destroyer comes upon him.
²² He does not believe that he will ^(C)return from darkness,
For a sword is waiting for him.
²³ He ^(D)wanders about for bread, saying, ‘Where is it?’
He knows ^(E)that a day of darkness is ready at his hand.
²⁴ Trouble and anguish make him afraid;
They overpower him, like a king ready for ^[b]battle.

¹⁷ And the way of peace they have not known.”