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v1

Rescue me, O Yahweh, from evil men. ^[The several uses of the singular “man” in this psalm are probably collective] Preserve me from violent men,

v2

who plan evil things in their heart. They stir up wars continually.

v3

They sharpen their tongue as sharp as a snake’s; the venom of a viper is under their lips. Selah

v4

Protect me, O Yahweh, from the hands of the wicked. Preserve me from violent men, who have planned to make me stumble. ^[Literally “push my steps”]

v5

The proud have hidden a trap for me, and cords. They have spread out a net along the side ^[Literally “hand”] of the path. They have set snares for me. Selah

v6

I say to Yahweh, “You are my God.” Listen, O Yahweh, to the voice of my supplications.

v7

O Yahweh, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.

v8

Do not grant, O Yahweh, the desires of the wicked. Do not allow them to attain their ^[Hebrew “his”] plan, lest they be exalted. Selah

v9

With respect to the head of those who surround me, may the harm of their lips cover them.

v10

Let burning coals fall on them; let them be dropped into the fire, into bottomless pits from which they cannot rise.

v11

Do not let a slanderer ^[Literally “man of tongue”] be established in the land; as for the man of violence, let evil hunt him quickly.

v12

I know ^[According to the reading tradition (Qere)] that Yahweh will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the needy.

v13

Surely the righteous will give thanks to your name; the upright will dwell in your presence.