doctrine of retribution. Ludlul Bēl Nēmeqi, while having the form of a hymn of praise, nevertheless is not insistent upon human culpability as the reason for suffering, as other examples of this type of exemplary-sufferer texts hold. The cause of suffering remains unknown, although the sufferer has searched his conscience, considered all possibilities, and come to the conclusion that he has been faithful to the rules of conduct, as far as he could discern. He does not claim innocence, but there is