The Holy Bible – Knox Translation
The Book of Psalms
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Psalm 16
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1
(A prayer. Of David.)
Lord, to my just complaint give ear; do not spurn my cry for aid. Listen to this prayer of mine; they are no treacherous lips that make it.
2
At thy judgement seat I claim award; unerring thy scrutiny.
3
Wilt thou read my heart, drawing near in the darkness to test me as if by fire, thou wilt find no treachery in me.
4
Never have these lips been led astray by man’s evil example; still to thy law’s pattern thy warnings kept me true;
5
still in thy paths my steps were firmly planted, my feet did not stumble.

6
And now I cry to thee, the God who ever hearest me; turn thy ear towards me, and listen to my plea.
7
Thy mercy, thy signal mercy shew; none ever sought sanctuary at thy right hand in vain.
8
Protect me as thou wouldst the apple of thy own eye; hide me under the shelter of thy wings,
9
safe from the evil-doers who wrong me.

See how my enemies close about me mercilessly,
10
their hearts shut to pity, a boast on their lips!
11
Even now their stealthy tread closes in on me, as they watch their opportunity to bring me down;
12
treacherous as a lion that is eager for its prey, a young lion that waits hidden in its lair.

13
Bestir thyself, Lord; forestall him and throw him to the ground; bare thy sword, and save me from the evil-doer,
14
raise thy hand, to rescue me from the hands of mortal men! Mortal men indeed, that have all their portion here on earth; whose desires thou dost satisfy with treasures from thy store, so that their children, too, live in abundance, and leave riches for new heirs to enjoy.
15
As for me, I will come with upright heart into thy presence, and when I wake up, I shall be well content with thy likeness.