But, gods of our race, hear, and regard with favor the cause of righteousness; if you refuse youthfulfillment of its arrogant desires, and readily abhor violence, you would be righteous toward marriage. Even for those who flee hard-pressed from war there is an altar,a shelter against harm through respect for the powers of heaven.

Chorus But may Zeus grant that it go well with us. For Zeus’ desire is hard to trace: it shines everywhere, even in gloom, together with fortuneobscure to mortal men.

Chorus Safely it falls, and not upon its back, whatever deed comes to pass at Zeus’ nod; for the pathways of his understanding stretch dark and tangled,beyond comprehension.

Chorus From their high-towering hopes he hurls mankind to utter destruction; yet he does not marshal any armed violence—all that is wrought by the powers divine is free from toil. Seated on his holy throne, unmoved, in mysterious ways he accomplishes his will.

Chorus So let him look upon human outrageousness—in what way it shoots up men in their wooing of us, sprouted from thoughts of evil intent,having a frenzied purpose as its irresistible spur, and deluded, turning its thoughts to folly.

Chorus Such piteous strains of woe I utter in my pain, now shrill, now deep, blended with falling tears—Alas, alas!groans appropriate to funeral wails; though I live, I chant my own dirge.

Chorus I invoke Apia’s hilly land—for well, O land, you understand my barbarous speech—,and many times I lay my hands upon my Sidonian veil and tear its linen fabric to shreds.

Chorus Sacrifices in satisfaction of vows are given freely to the gods when all fares well, if only there be escape from death.Alas, alas, perplexing troubles! Where will this wave of trouble bear me away?

Chorus I invoke Apia’s hilly land—forwell, O land, you understand my barbarous speech—, and many times I lay my hands upon my Sidonian veil and tear its linen fabric to shreds.