¹⁵ Though I were innocent, I could not answer him;^(A)
    I could only plead^(B) with my Judge^(C) for mercy.^(D)

¹⁵ If I am guilty^(A)—woe to me!^(B)
    Even if I am innocent, I cannot lift my head,^(C)
for I am full of shame
    and drowned in^[a] my affliction.^(D)

⁵ But if you will seek God earnestly
    and plead^(A) with the Almighty,^(B)

²⁷ You will pray to him,^(A) and he will hear you,^(B)
    and you will fulfill your vows.^(C)

² I say to God:^(A) Do not declare me guilty,
    but tell me what charges^(B) you have against me.^(C)