Psalms 140

For the choirmaster. A psalm of David.

1Rescue me, O Yahweh, from an evil man; guard me from a violent man.

2who devise evil things in their heart; all day they stir up wars.

3They sharpen their tongue like a snake; the venom of a viper is under their lips. Selah

4Keep me, O Yahweh, from the hands of the wicked; guard me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet.

5The proud have hidden a trap and cords for me; they have spread a net beside the path; they have set snares for me. Selah

6I said to Yahweh, “You are my God.” O Yahweh, listen to the voice of my pleas.

7O Yahweh, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.

8O Yahweh, do not grant the desires of the wicked; do not let his scheme succeed, lest they be exalted. Selah

9As for the head of those who surround me, let the trouble from their lips cover them.

10May they rain coals upon them; may he cast them into the fire, into deep pits, never to rise again.

11A slanderer will not be established in the land; evil will hunt down a violent man to his ruin.

12I know that Yahweh will uphold the cause of the afflicted and secure justice for the needy.

13Surely the righteous will give thanks to your name; the upright will dwell before your face.