The Problem with Pain in the Ancient Near East

In these three poems we see an attempt to understand pain and suffering. Surely it is one of the great mysteries, even amongst us today. Though all three narratives are different all seem to look to the gods as the source of all things. Even the source of their hardships and sorrows.
In the first poem it seems that all the events in Shabshi-meshre-Shakkan's life are under the influence and power of the gods. His sufferings are brought upon him by the gods, and ultimately through Marduk he is relieved of his sufferings. All in all the main character seems to accept his fate, accepts that he is not as great as the gods and accepts that they can control his life.
The second and third narrative seem a little less accepting, both seem to show anger towards the gods because of the trials that have been heaped upon them. It is interesting to note that none seem to find a reason for the suffering. Indeed the characters point out repeatedly that the punishment is not just and that it is beyond their understanding.