he ¹  said to take back this answer to Esther:

Answer me, O Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, O Lord, are the true God ¹  and that you are winning back their allegiance.” ² 

The wisest of her ladies ¹  answer; indeed she even thinks to herself,

If someone wishes ¹  to contend ²  with him, he cannot answer ³  him one time in a thousand.

“How much less, ¹  then, can I answer him ²  and choose my words ³  to argue ⁴  with ⁵  him! ⁶ 

Then call, ¹  and I will answer, or I will speak, and you respond to me.

“Does a wise man answer with blustery knowledge, ¹  or fill his belly ²  with the east wind? ³ 

Will ¹  there be an end to your ²  windy words? ³  Or what provokes ⁴  you that you answer? ⁵ 

When ¹  I hear a reproof that dishonors ²  me, then my understanding ³  prompts me to answer. ⁴ 

“They are dismayed ²  and cannot answer any more; they have nothing left to say. ³ 

I too will answer my part, I too will explain what I know.

Then ¹  they cry out – but he does not answer – because of the arrogance of the wicked.

I have spoken once, but I cannot answer; twice, but I will say no more.” ¹ 

Look at me! ¹  Answer me, O Lord my God! Revive me, ²  or else I will die! ³ 

Hear me, ¹  O Lord, when I cry out! Have mercy on me and answer me!

Then you will take delight in the Lord, ¹  and he will answer your prayers. ² 

Deliver by your power ¹  and answer me, ²  so that the ones you love may be safe. ³ 

Do not ignore ¹  your servant, for I am in trouble! Answer me right away! ² 

A prayer of David. Listen ²  O Lord! Answer me! For I am oppressed and needy.

In my time of trouble I cry out to you, for you will answer me.