²³ Why is life given to a man
    whose way is hidden,^(A)
    whom God has hedged in?^(B)

⁸ He has blocked my way so I cannot pass;^(A)
    he has shrouded my paths in darkness.^(B)

⁶ Even if they escape from destruction,
    Egypt will gather them,^(A)
    and Memphis^(B) will bury them.^(C)
Their treasures of silver^(D) will be taken over by briers,
    and thorns^(E) will overrun their tents.

⁸ The high places^(A) of wickedness^[a](B) will be destroyed—
    it is the sin of Israel.
Thorns^(C) and thistles will grow up
    and cover their altars.^(D)
Then they will say to the mountains, “Cover us!”^(E)
    and to the hills, “Fall on us!”^(F)