14 a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazingi nearby, 15 and the Sabeansj attacked and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

16 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the heavensk and burned up the sheep and the servants,l and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

17 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeansm formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”

18 While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughtersn were feastingo and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, 19 when suddenly a mighty windp swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead,q and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!r”