CXL. Book V. Prayer for Protection Against the Wicked. 1909-14. The Book of Psalms. The Harvard Classics

The Book of Psalms.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.

Book V

CXL

Prayer for Protection Against the Wicked

For The Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.


[1]	DELIVER me, O Jehovah, from the evil man; Preserve me from the violent man:
[2]	Who devise mischiefs in their heart; Continually do they gather 1 themselves together for war.
[3]	They have sharpened their tongue like a serpent; Adders’ poison is under their lips. [Selah
[4]	Keep me, O Jehovah, from the hands of the wicked; Preserve me from the violent man: Who have purposed to thrust aside my steps.
[5]	The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; They have spread a net by the wayside; They have set gins for me. [Selah

[6]	I said unto Jehovah, Thou art my God: Give ear unto the voice of my supplications, O Jehovah.
[7]	O Jehovah the Lord, the strength of my salvation, Thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.
[8]	Grant not, O Jehovah, the desires of the wicked; Further not his evil device, lest they exalt themselves. [Selah
[9]	As for the head of those that compass me about, Let the mischief of their own lips cover them.
[10]	Let burning coals fall upon them: Let them be cast into the fire, Into deep 2 pits, whence they shall not rise.
[11]	An 3 evil speaker shall not be established in the earth: Evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.
[12]	I know that Jehovah will maintain the cause of the afflicted, And justice for the needy.
[13]	Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: The upright shall dwell in thy presence.

Note 1. Or, stir up wars. [back]

Note 2. Or, floods. [back]

Note 3. Heb. A man of tongue. [back]