Psalms Chapter 140

For the Choir Director. A Psalm of David

¹ Yahveh, rescue me from sinful people

      protect me from those who are violent,

                  ²that plot evil things in their minds,

            and constantly stir up conflict.

³ They have pointed tongues like a snake;

      viper’s venom lies behind their lips.                               

⁴ Yahveh, protect me from sinful people;

Protect me from those who are violent,

            that try to trip me.

⁵ The arrogant hide traps for me;

      with cords they spread a net beside the road

      and set snares for me.                                                       Ps 140:1-5        

⁶ I said to Yahveh, “You’re my God;

      listen to my petitions.

⁷ Yahveh the Lord, my strong deliverer,

      you’ve protected my head in battle.

⁸ Don’t let sinful people do whatever they please;

      don’t further their evil intentions.                                   

⁹ “Make the schemes they talk about

      come down on their own heads.

¹⁰ Let burning coals fall on them;

      throw them into the fire,

            into deep pits they can’t climb out of.

¹¹ Don’t let slanderers get a foothold in the earth;

      have misfortune hunt down violent people quickly.”

¹² I know you’ll champion the cause of the suffering

      and render justice for the poor.

¹³ The godly will thank you

      and live in your presence.                                                

Ps 140:6-13