From the Greek Septuagint text as was used by First Century Christians

NOTE: You will see that we have translated the Psalms in a poetic fashion, making minor changes to provide meaning and cadence. Why have we done this? Well, recognize that the book of Psalms was the Israelite songbook, so each Psalm originally had meaning and cadence, which we have tried to restore. This requires substituting with synonyms and adding or deleting extraneous words to allow for language differences, while attempting to maintain the integrity of the original meanings. And by so doing, it becomes easy to see where errors and changes may have crept in due to translating or scribal errors. For, some Psalms appear to have suffered obvious losses (see Psalm 11), while others are beautifully written and follow the rules of Hebrew songs and poetry precisely.

Psalm 1

NOTE: Why Psalm and not Psalms? Recognize that Psalms was the book of Israelite hymns, and each of the following Psalms is just a song (not songs) in that book. So, it is a book of Psalms (songs), but each Chapter is just a Psalm (or song).

¹ Blest is the man who ignores the disrespectful, and not taken the position of sinners, or in the chair of the disgusting has he sat, ² but who wants to do the will of Jehovah, and considers His Laws day and night. ³ For he’ll be like a tree placed near water. Each season He will bear fruit, and his leaves will not drop, and he will have great prosperity.

⁴ But for the disrespectful this won’t be so, for they’re like the dust that’s blown ‘cross the earth. ⁵ So, they won’t be raised in the Judgment, nor will sinners see the outcome of the righteous, ⁶ for Jehovah knows what the righteous have done, but the ways of the impious will perish.

Psalm 2

A Psalm of David

NOTE: Superscriptions such as the one above are notes to show who wrote the song, or who it was written for, or what inspired its writing, or the occasions on which it is to be sung, or how it is to be sung.

¹ Why do the nations and why do the peoples, think about things that are worthless? ² For the rulers of the land and their kings, are against Jehovah and His anointed. ³ They say: ‘We should tear off their bondage, and throw off all their yokes.’ ⁴ But He in the heavens is laughing… at them Jehovah is laughing.

⁵ Then in His anger He’ll speak, and in His rage He’ll disturb them, ⁶ saying: ‘I’ve placed My king on Mount Zion, as the ruler of My Holy Place. ⁷ For, he declares the orders of Jehovah, (saying) You are My son, and today I am your Father. ⁸ Just ask and I’ll give you the nations to own, as an inheritance to the ends of the earth. ⁹ With a rod of iron you’ll shepherd them, and break them as pots made of clay.

¹⁰ O kings of the earth pay attention, and those judging the earth should now learn! ¹¹ Serve Jehovah in fear; all should tremble and praise Him.

¹² Give ear to all these instructions, so to anger He’s not provoked, for you’ll perish away from the righteous, if you quickly kindle His rage. Yet, those who yield will be blest.

Psalm 3

A Psalm of David when he was running from his son AbSalom

¹ O Jehovah; Why are so many against me, and why are so many attacking? ² Many speak of my life, and they say that my God will not save me.

³ But you are my shield O Jehovah; my glory who lifts up my head. ⁴ For, with my voice I’ve called to Jehovah, and from His holy mountain He listened.

⁵ Then I went to bed and I slept, and God helped me when I awoke. ⁶ So, I won’t fear tens of thousands, who have me surrounded to attack me.

⁷ Stand up and act O Jehovah; deliver me please, O my God! You’ve cut down those with no reason to hate me, and You’ve broken the teeth of the sinners.

⁸ Salvation comes from Jehovah, and it’s He who blesses His people.

Psalm 4

To the music director; a Psalm of David.

¹ When I called to my God in very hard times, He felt pity and listened to my prayer.

² O sons of men; How long will you stay so hardhearted? Why do you love whatever is foolish, and always search for the lie?

³ You know of all the wonders, which God has performed for His clean one, for He listened to me when I called Him.

⁴ So, be angry with me but don’t sin… complain as you pray in your beds. ⁵ Offer a sacrifice that is righteous, and then put your hope in Jehovah.

⁶ Many have asked: ‘Who will show us such good things? Who’s shown us the light from God’s face?’

⁷ [O God]; You’ve put happiness into my heart… it has been filled with fruit, grain, and oil.

⁸ So I’ll sleep in peace in that place, for You O Jehovah have filled me with hope.

Psalm 5

To the music director; a Psalm of David to his heir.

¹ Lend me an ear O Jehovah, and pay attention to the things I call out for… ² hear my voice and the things that I beg! To Jehovah my King and my God I will pray.

³ Listen to my voice in the morning… as I pray, stand by me and watch me. ⁴ For, You aren’t a God who approves of lawbreaking, nor will the wicked ever travel with You.

⁵ O Jehovah; You won’t put up with lawbreakers, and before Your face the lawless won’t stand. ⁶ For, You will destroy all those who lie, and You hate men of blood and deceit.

⁷ Because of all Your great mercy, I will enter Your [Temple]. I’ll bow to Your Holy House, and I will always fear You.

⁸ O Jehovah; Because of my many enemies, lead me in ways that are righteous. Straighten out all of my paths, as they are seen before You.

⁹ There is no truth in their mouths, and foolishness is bound within their hearts. Their throats are like tombs lying open, and they’ve used their tongues to deceive. ¹⁰ So, bring Your judgment upon them O God, and cause their council to fail. For their irreverence send them away, because against You (Jehovah) they have rebelled.

¹¹ Be glad, all those who put trust in You; may they cry out and loudly shout cheers! For, among them You’ll dwell in Your Tent, and those loving Your Name will boast about You.

You will bless the righteous O Lord; You have crowned us with the goodness of Your shield.

Psalm 6

To the music director: the eighth psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah; Don’t discipline me in Your rage, nor correct me in Your great anger. ² Show mercy on me for I’m weak, O my God; my bones are shaking, so heal me O Lord.

³ The man that I am is greatly disturbed! Where are You, O my God; how long will You stay away? ⁴ Return to me… please save me! Deliver me please in Your mercy! ⁵ For the dead cannot [think of] You, and who can praise You from the grave?

⁶ I’m so tired of my moaning, for each night I soak my bed with my tears. ⁷ Because my eyes are disturbed, by all the rage that they see.

Because of my enemies I have grown old. ⁸ So, remove all of the lawless from me, and listen to the sound of my weeping, O God.

⁹ Jehovah has heard the things that I’ve begged for… my God listened in favor to my prayers. ¹⁰ May all who hate me be shamed and disturbed; may all my enemies soon be dishonored.

Psalm 7

A Psalm of David that he sang to Jehovah because of the things that were said by Cush [of the tribe] of BenJamin.

¹ O Jehovah my God; All my trust I’ve put in You. Rescue me from those who pursue me, ² so my life isn’t snatched away by a lion, when there’s no one to ransom or save me!

³ O Jehovah my God; If I have done many bad things, and if in my hands there’s injustice; ⁴ if I’ve repaid bad to those who’ve done good, may I fall to my enemies with nothing. ⁵ May my enemies chase me and catch me, and trample my life to the ground, where it will camp in the dust.

⁶ O Jehovah; Arise in Your rage… before Your enemies stand tall! Awaken O Jehovah my God, and give the order to attack! ⁷ Many peoples have [me] surrounded, so now’s the time to stand tall. ⁸ Judge all those people Jehovah, and find me innocent and righteous.

⁹ O God; Finish off the wickedness of sinners, and straighten out all of the righteous… check their hearts and their kidneys. ¹⁰ For, justice is the help I’ve received from my God, and He saves all those with straight hearts.

¹¹ My God is just, forgiving, and strong… He’s not angry each day. ¹² But don’t turn against Him for He’ll shine His sword, and His bow He’ll prepare and stretch tight. ¹³ That’s how He prepares the weapons of death… it’s how He prepares His flaming arrows.

¹⁴ See how the wicked ones slave in their sins, for in misery they were conceived. To lawlessness he’s given birth, ¹⁵ and though he has dug out a pit, he’ll fall into the cesspool he’s made; yes into the pit that he dug.

¹⁶ May his misery come down on his own head, and his unrighteousness fall down upon him. ¹⁷ But I will acknowledge the righteousness of God, and I’ll strum to His most holy Name.

Psalm 8

To the director over the wine vats; a Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah our Lord; How great is Your Name in all the earth. Your majesty has risen high above the skies. ² From the mouths of infants and babies comes praises, for [our] enemies and avengers You’ve removed.

³ I see in the sky the works of Your fingers… the moon and the stars that You’ve founded. ⁴ So, what is man that You’d think of him, or a son of man that You’d visit?

⁵ A bit less than Your messengers You’ve made him, then crowned him with glory and honor. ⁶ You placed him over the works of Your hands, and put it all under his feet.

⁷ You put sheep and oxen together, and all the cattle that live in the plains. ⁸ [You put] flying things in the sky, and fish in the water treading paths through the seas.

⁹ O Jehovah our Lord; How wonderful is Your Name in all the earth.

Psalm 9

To director; A private Psalm of David to his son.

¹ O Jehovah; I’ll praise You with my whole heart, and I’ll describe all Your wonders. ² O Highest One; In You I’ll be glad and take joy, and I will strum to Your Name.

³ You’ve turned my enemies and made them retreat… before Your face they are weak and destroyed. ⁴ You’ve made my case and my cause; You sat on Your throne and righteously judged.

⁵ You scolded the nations and wiped the irreverent away; through the age and through ages of ages, You’ve wiped away all their names. ⁶ My enemy’s swords have ended and failed; memory of them and their cities, has now all been [erased].

⁷ Jehovah lives through the ages, and He’s ready to judge from His throne. ⁸ In justice He’ll judge man’s habitation; He’ll judge the people uprightly.

⁹ Jehovah is a refuge to the needy, and a helper in times of oppression. ¹⁰ Those who know You trust in Your Name; those searching for You are never abandoned.

¹¹ Strum to Jehovah, those living in Zion; proclaim His deeds to the nations! ¹² For, He remembers whose blood is required, and forgets not the cries of the needy.

¹³ Show mercy on me O Jehovah; raise me up from death’s gate, ¹⁴ so I can shout about how You deliver, and I can praise You before Zion’s gates.

¹⁵ In their corruption the nations are mired, and in their own snares their feet have been caught. ¹⁶ For Jehovah is known as He who brings justice, and sinners are snared by the deeds of their hands.

¹⁷ Please bring Your vengeance upon all the sinners. And O God; send those who hate You away to their graves. ¹⁸ But don’t forget the poor in the end, and may the patience of those in need never perish.

¹⁹ Arise O Jehovah, and may no man ever beat You! Stand the nations before You in judgment; ²⁰ appoint over them one who makes laws, and of their mortality remind them.

Psalm 10

¹ O Jehovah; Why have You stayed far away? Why have You left us, for we need You now!

² Because of their wickedness and pride, the Godless have burned up the poor. And as they argue, the proud have been trapped, in the results of their slander.

³ Those who are sinners are blessing themselves, with all the things they desire… that’s how the unrighteous get praise.

⁴ The sinner provokes God to rage, because he won’t seek Jehovah; with him God never walks, ⁵ because his ways are disgusting. You do not give Your decisions to him, so among his enemies he rules. ⁶ For he said in his heart, I’ll never be shaken… through generations I’ll never see bad.

⁷ His mouth is filled with bitterness and cursing; toil, misery, and treachery comes from his tongue. ⁸ With the rich he lies waiting in ambush, to watch for and kill the innocent needy. ⁹ He lies and waits in concealment, like a lion that’s inside his lair. He lies in wait to capture the poor, in order to take them away, and put them under his power. ¹⁰ But such domination of the needy, is what will lead to his downfall. ¹¹ For he’s said in his heart God’s forgotten… He’s turned his face and He’ll never see. ¹² So rise up, Jehovah my God! Raise your hand high, and don’t forget those in need!

¹³ Why do the irreverent anger our God? Because they’ve said in their hearts, There won’t be an accounting. ¹⁴ But You can see the misery they bring; so recall Your rage, and then lead them into Your hands!

Why, the poor and the orphans have all been abandoned… their only helper is You. ¹⁵ Please break the arms of the wicked and sinners… when we search for them, may they not be found!

¹⁶ Jehovah is king through the age, and into the ages of ages. O you nations; from His land you’ll be wiped away, ¹⁷ for He’s heard the voices of those in need.

O Jehovah; You have heard with Your ears, the things that they say in their hearts. ¹⁸ Bring justice to the orphans and humble, so man has no reason to brag of his ways!

Psalm 11

For the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ I have yielded to Jehovah.

² How can you say to my soul, ‘Fly to the mountains like a sparrow?’ ³ {Look!} Sinners have stretched tight their bows, and prepared arrows for the quiver, to shoot straight at my heart in the moonlight.

⁴ Whatever You’ve built they’ve demolished, but where are the righteous and what did they do?

⁵ Jehovah is in His holy [Temple], yet His throne is high in the heavens. His eyes pay attention to those who’re in need, and to their sons needs His eyelids [are open].

⁶ About the righteous, Jehovah inquires, but those loving injustice He hates to the core.

⁷ Upon the unrighteous He’ll rain snares of fire… they’ll get sulfur and wind in their cup. ⁸ For Jehovah is just and the things that He loves, are justice and straightforward answers, which He can see with His face.

Psalm 12

To the director; the eighth Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah; Please save me, for the holy have all failed, and few among men tell the truth. ² Each man to his neighbor speaks foolish things, and each from his heart speaks what’s wrong and deceitful.

³ May Jehovah destroy the lips of the lying, and the tongues that brag of great things… ⁴ those who say ‘We’ll make our tongues great, and ask with our lips, Who’s Jehovah?’

⁵ So, because of the misery of the poor, and the moaning of the needy, I’ll arise and bring safety to them; and to them I will openly speak.

⁶ Jehovah’s wise words are as pure as fine silver, for their wisdom is refined seven times in a fire.

O Jehovah; In Your heights You stand tall, yet the sons of men You still watch over. ⁷ So, please guard us and keep us, from this generation and age, ⁸ because the Godless have us encircled, and around us they walk everywhere.

Psalm 13

To director; A Psalm of David.

¹ For how long O Jehovah, will You forget me… how long will You turn Your face from me… will it be clear to the end?

² How much longer must my life endure grief, and plan for it both night and day in my heart… how long will my enemies be stronger than me?

³ Listen to me, O Jehovah! My God; Please look upon me! Brighten my eyes so I won’t sleep in death, ⁴ and so my enemies can’t say that they’ve won. For, those who oppress me will cheer if I fall.

⁵ I’ve put all my hope in Your mercy, and Your salvation brings joy to my heart. ⁶ So, I’ll sing to Jehovah who’s blest me, and I’ll strum to the Name of [my God] in the heights.

Psalm 14

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ There is no God, says the fool in his heart, and what they do is corrupt and disgusting… no one is doing things that are good!

² From the heavens Jehovah looked down, to see if men’s sons were looking to God. ³ But all have turned and made themselves useless; none are doing good… no not one! Their throats are like tombs that are open, and the tongues in their throats are used to deceive. Under their lips is the poison of asps, and with bitterness their mouths are now filled. Their feet now rush to shed blood and destruction, and misery is in all of their ways. The road to peace they’ve never known… there’s no fear of Jehovah in their eyes.

⁴ Those who break laws don’t understand, for they devour my people as though they are bread. They haven’t called on Jehovah, ⁵ so now they’re afraid when there’s nothing to fear.

God is with the just generation, ⁶ but this one has disgraced the wise words of the poor, whose hope is still in Jehovah.

⁷ Who’ll bring salvation to Israel from Zion? It’s Jehovah who’ll return His captive people. Then Jacob will cry out in joy, and Israel will have reasons for gladness.

Psalm 15

A Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah; Who will You allow to visit Your tent; who may camp on Your Holy Mountain? ² Just the flawless who pursue justice, and those who speak truth in their hearts… ³ those who speak no treachery with their tongues, nor do wrong to their neighbors. They haven’t looked down on those who live near them, ⁴ nor are they found with the wicked. For they praise those who are fearing Jehovah, and speak well of those who do what they promise. ⁵ They don’t lend money for interest, nor ask for bribes from the innocent. Such ones won’t be shaken through the age.

Psalm 16

An inscription on a monument by David.

¹ Guard me O Jehovah, because in You I’ve put hope. ² I’ve said to Jehovah ‘You are my Lord, and and beside You I have nothing good.’

³ The holy in His land are in awe of Jehovah, as are those who willingly serve Him. ⁴ Yet, there are those who give in to their weakness, and hurry to search for the bad things. With such I’ll not gather [to shed] blood, nor will I mention their names with my lips.

⁵ Jehovah is my inheritance, and the portion in my cup; for You’ve restored my inheritance to me. ⁶ Its borders have fallen across the best places, so my inheritance is the most choice.

⁷ I’ll praise Jehovah who makes me understand, and who corrects my kidneys at night. ⁸ I’ll look to Jehovah in all of my ways; He’s at my right hand so I won’t be shaken. ⁹ For this my heart will always be glad, and on my tongue there’ll always be praises.

Upon You my flesh camps in hope, ¹⁰ for You haven’t abandoned my life in the grave, nor allowed Your holy one to rot.

¹¹ The ways of life You have shown me, and before Your face You’ve filled me with joy. So to my delight I’ll sit at your right hand in perfection.

Psalm 17

A prayer of David.

¹ Listen O Jehovah to my cries, and pay attention to the things that I ask. Listen to my prayer for my words are not spoken, with lips that try to deceive.

² From Your presence may my judgment come forth, and may my eyes behold Your uprightness. ³ For, You’ve tried my heart in Your visits at night; You’ve [tried] me by fire but have found no injustice, which would prevent me from speaking [to You].

⁴ Concerning the hard ways of men; Your lips have been my protection. ⁵ So, form my footsteps into Your ways, so my feet will not stumble.

⁶ I called out to You and You heard me, O God; with Your ears You’ve listened to my words.

⁷ O You who [bring us] salvation; show the wonders of Your mercies, to those who put trust in Your right hand.

⁸ Guard me O [Jehovah, my God], as though I were the pupil of Your eye. Take me under the protection of Your wings, and provide a shelter for me.

⁹ Protect me from the face of the Godless; the ones bringing misery to me. For my enemies have me encircled, ¹⁰ while they are wrapped in their fat, and they speak with mouths filled with pride.

¹¹ They’ve driven me out and have me surrounded; their eyes have plans to cut me to the ground. ¹² I’ve been treated as a lion prepared for the hunt… as a cub that must now live in hiding.

¹³ Arise O Jehovah; cut them off and then trip them! With Your sword save my life from the godless. ¹⁴ Use Your hand, O Jehovah, to cut all my enemies down. Cut their bodies into pieces, and leave them there on the ground!

Please fill their bellies like pigs, with Your things that are hidden away, and feed what is left to their children. ¹⁵ Let Your righteous one appear, and may I be filled with Your glory.

Psalm 18

To the director; A Psalm of Jehovah’s servant David, which he sang to Jehovah on the day that God rescued him from his enemies and from the hand of Saul.

¹ O Jehovah; With all of my strength I will love You, ² for my Lord is real to me… He’s my refuge and Savior. My helper is God, so I’ll trust in Him… ³ He’s my defender and protector, and the horn of my salvation.

³ When it comes to praise I’ll call on Jehovah, and from my enemies I’ll be saved. ⁴ For, by the pangs of death I was surrounded, and beset by floods of lawbreakers. ⁵ I was filled with the fear of the place of the dead, as I expected all snares of death.

⁶ Then in my distress I called to my God. I shouted, and He heard me from His Home… my cries before Him entered His ears. ⁷ Then the ground shook and it trembled; the foundations of the mountains were disturbed, for my God shook them in rage.

⁸ The smoke of His anger and the fire coming from Him, ignited coals all around Him. ⁹ Then He leaned from the heavens and descended, and darkness was under His feet. ¹⁰ He arrived riding on cherubs, with their wings spread out on the winds.

¹¹ For concealment He made everything dark; He was wrapped in His tent of dark fog. ¹² The radiance of His presence was covered by clouds… by hail and [by bolts] of fire.

¹³ Jehovah thundered from the sky, and the Most High spoke with His voice. ¹⁴ He shot His arrows all around, and disturbed them with [skies] filled with lightning. ¹⁵ Then springs of water were opened, and foundations of houses were seen.

O Jehovah; This all came from Your scolding, and from the blast of the Spirit of Your rage.

¹⁶ Down from the heights He came… He took me and saved me from rushing waters. ¹⁷ So, from my mighty enemies He’ll save me… from those who detest me and are stronger than I.

¹⁸ They came on the day when I was mistreated, but Jehovah became my support. ¹⁹ Then He carried me to a great spacious land; and because I was desired He became my salvation.

²⁰ Jehovah will reward my righteous ways… for my clean hands He’ll repay me, ²¹ because I have guarded the ways of the Lord… unlike the irreverent, I’ve not left my God.

²² All His decisions are here before me, and His Laws have never departed from me. ²³ So, flawless I’ll stand here before Him, and I’ll guard against any Law breaking. ²⁴ Then Jehovah will repay my righteous ways, and the cleanliness of my hands He’ll see with His eyes.

²⁵ We must be holy to those who are holy, and innocent with those who are innocent. ²⁶ Then with the chosen you’ll be selected, but you’ll be turned away if you’re crooked. ²⁷ You people must save all the humble, and humble the eyes of the proud.

²⁸ Light my lamp, O Jehovah my God; please light my way in the darkness. ²⁹ For, by You I will be rescued, from the bands of marauders… by my God I’ll pass over the wall.

³⁰ The ways of my God are flawless, and His words are all tried by fire… He’s the defender of all those who trust Him. ³¹ For, who is God but Jehovah? Is there any other God like our God?

³² He’s the God who wrapped me in power, and makes my ways to be flawless. ³³ He’s readied my feet like those of a stag, and He’s put me up on high places. ³⁴ He has taught my hands ways of war, and turned my arms into bows made of brass.

³⁵ You’ve prepared a shield to protect me; You’ve taken me in Your right hand. You’ll make me stand again in the end, and with Your instructions You’ll teach me.

³⁶ You’ve widened the path underneath me, and You’ve given me strength. ³⁷ So, I’ll pursue my enemies and catch them, and I won’t return ‘til I’m done. ³⁸ I’ll squeeze them until they’re unable to stand, and they’ll all fall at my feet.

³⁹ You’ve wrapped me in the power of war; You’ve tied my enemies hand and foot. ⁴⁰ You’ve shown me the backs of those who oppose me, and destroyed all those who detest me.

⁴¹ They shouted, but no one could save them; they called to Jehovah, but He didn’t listen. ⁴² So, I’ll grind them to powder and throw them away, like the dust in city squares that is blown in the wind.

⁴³ You’ll rescue me from the disputes of the people, and place me as the head of [many] nations. Then peoples unknown will all come to serve me; ⁴⁴ they’ll hear my voice and they will obey. And those foreigner’s sons who have lied, ⁴⁵ will grow old and lame in [life’s] paths.

⁴⁶ Jehovah lives… may [He] be praised! May [the Name] of the God who saves me be raised… ⁴⁷ the God who handles my vengeance for me, and makes all the peoples submit. ⁴⁸ From all my enemies He has saved me; those who oppose me and rise up against me.

You’ve lifted me above the unrighteous, and rushed to my aid in order to save me. ⁴⁹ So, I’ll praise You before all the nations; O Jehovah I’ll strum to Your Name. ⁵⁰ For, You’ve shown all the ways You can save the king… You’ve shown mercy upon Your anointed… to David and his seed through the ages.

Psalm 19

For the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ The heavens describe the glory of God, and space tells of what He has made with His hands. ² Day after day His words bubble up, and night after night there’s more knowledge.

³ For there’s neither speaking nor words, and you can’t hear the sounds of their voices. ⁴ But throughout the earth their knell has gone out, and their words reach the ends of man’s habitation, that He’s pitched His tent on the sun.

⁵ Like a groom coming out on his [wedding night], He shouts like the mighty in His journey. ⁶ He leaves from one end of the sky, then returns from the other side of heaven, and none can be hidden from His heat.

⁷ Jehovah’s Law changes lives and is perfect; God’s witness can be trusted, for it brings wisdom to even the young. ⁸ Jehovah’s rules are all straight, and they bring joy to the heart. The Commandments of Jehovah radiate, providing light for everyone’s eyes.

⁹ The fear of Jehovah is pure, for it lasts through the ages, and then through the ages of ages. The judgments of Jehovah are true, for they bring the very same justice. ¹⁰ It’s more desirable than gold or gems, and it’s sweeter than honey from its comb. ¹¹ For, when His servants obey them, they will receive grand rewards.

¹² But, who will notice his own sins? From my sins in private, please cleanse me. ¹³ Protect Your servant from foreign peoples, for if they can’t control me I’ll stay unblemished, and I can be cleansed of great sins. ¹⁴ The prophecies of good will flow from my mouth, and the thoughts of my heart will be of Jehovah, for You are always my helper.

Psalm 20

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ In times of trouble you should turn to Jehovah. Let the Name of Jacob’s God be your shield. ² For, from His Holy Place He’ll send help… from Zion He’ll send you assistance.

³ May He remember all the sacrifices you’ve offered, and all of your fattened burnt offerings. ⁴ May God give you all the things in your heart, and fulfill whatever you have planned. ⁵ Then all will shout about their salvation, and praise the Name of our God… may Jehovah grant all that you ask.

⁶ Now, I have [seen] how Jehovah delivers, for He’s heard His anointed from His holy heavens. He takes control and saves with His right hand, ⁷ from those who attack with chariots and horses. For, when I called on the Name of [my] God, ⁸ they fell and were bound hand and foot. But we were resurrected and remade.

⁹ O Jehovah; please save the king, and pay close attention when we call upon You.

Psalm 21

A Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah: The king will gladly submit to Your power, and for Your salvation he calls out in joy. ² You have given him all that his heart desires, and not deprived him of the things that he begged for. ³ Before he asked, You gave him great blessings, and placed a gemmed crown on his head. ⁴ When he asked for life, You gave him long days, into the ages of ages. ⁵ In Your saving power You’ve made great his glory, and placed gracious majesty upon him. ⁶ For, through the ages You’ve blessed him, and You’ve made [his heart] glad with the joy of Your face.

⁷ The king has put his hope in Jehovah, and he’ll never [lose faith in] the mercy from above. ⁸ So may all of Your enemies be found in Your hands, and may all those who hate You be found in Your right hand, ⁹ for You’ll throw them in an oven in Your Day. In Your rage You’ll disturb them, and then You’ll destroy them in fire. ¹⁰ You’ll destroy their fruit from the earth, and their seed from among sons of men.

¹¹ For, their purpose toward You was just to do bad, and they argued over plans that were never fulfilled. ¹² So, throw them away along with Your garbage, and prepare their faces for this. ¹³ May Your power be raised high O Jehovah, for we’ll sing and we’ll strum about Your mighty deeds.

Psalm 22

For the director; for help in the early morning. A Psalm of David.

¹ O God, my God, please hear me! Why have I been abandoned by You? Do the words of my errors prevent my salvation? ² For during the day I call out to You, but You don’t listen to me, O my God; and don’t think that I’m thoughtless at night.

³ But in Your Holy Place You do dwell, as the One who brings Israel blessings. ⁴ In You our fathers put hope and You saved them. ⁵ They called out to You in their hope, and they were never disgraced.

⁶ I’m [viewed] as a maggot, not a man; the scorn and contempt of my people. ⁷ For, those who see me make fun… they shake their heads and they say, ⁸ ‘He has put his trust in Jehovah, but if He wants him let Him save him!’

⁹ It was You who pulled me from [my mother’s] womb… You were my hope when I sucked at her breasts. ¹⁰ Upon You I was thrust from the womb; from the belly of my mother You’ve been my God. ¹¹ So, don’t leave me now that trouble is near, for there’s no one else who can help me.

¹² I’m surrounded by great herds of cattle, and many strong bulls are around me. ¹³ They’ve opened their mouths against me like lions… those who roar and drag off [as prey].

¹⁴ My bones have become like water, and my heart in my chest has melted like wax. ¹⁵ My strength has been dried like a clay pot, and my tongue is stuck to my throat, for; to the dust of death You have led me.

¹⁶ Many dogs now have me surrounded, and the wicked are gathering around me. They’re cutting into my hands and my feet; ¹⁷ they count all my bones as they watch me and think. ¹⁸ They’ve divided my garments among them, and thrown dice for the clothes that I wear.

¹⁹ But Your help is not far away, O Jehovah, for You’ll notice and come to my aid. ²⁰ O rescue my life from the broadsword… [Your] only-fathered son from the hands of the dogs.

²¹ Deliver me from the mouth of the lion, and on the horns of rhinoceros may I not be disgraced. ²² Then I’ll describe Your fame to my brothers, and in the midst of the gathering I’ll praise You.

²³ Praise Jehovah, all you who fear Him! Give Him glory, all you seed of Jacob; but fear Him too you seed of Israel! ²⁴ For, He hasn’t looked on you with contempt, or loathed the prayers of the poor. And from me He has never turned His face, for when I called Him He always has listened.

²⁵ So, before the great gathering I’ll offer praises, and make confessions before all. I’ll also pay all my vows, in the presence of those who fear Him. ²⁶ Then the stomachs of those in need will be filled, and those seeking Jehovah will give praise from their hearts, through the age and through ages of ages.

²⁷ Turn back and remember Jehovah, all you to the ends of the earth. All families of the nations bow down before Him, ²⁸ for His is the Kingship and He’s the sole ruler of the nations. ²⁹ All the mighty of the earth will then eat, if they will all bow before Him, as well as those going into the ground.

I will live for Him with all my being, ³⁰ and my seed will always serve Him. They’ll proclaim Him to future generations, ³¹ and they’ll speak of His justice to people unborn.

Psalm 23

A Psalm of David.

¹ Jehovah provides, so I need nothing more. ² He has placed my camp in green pastures, and He feeds me near restful waters. ³ My life He has restored, and for the sake of His Name, He guides me in ways that are righteous. ⁴ So, should I travel through the valley of death’s shadow, nothing bad will I ever fear; for I know that You’ll always be with me, and Your scepter and staff will bring me comfort.

⁵ You’ve prepared before me a table, far away from those who oppress me. My head You’ve anointed with oil, and Your excellent cup makes me high. ⁶ Your mercies have pursued me all the days of my life, so I’ll stay in Your House for as long as I live.

Psalm 24

A Psalm of David [to be sung] on the Sabbath.

¹ To Jehovah belongs the earth and its goodness… the arrangement and all who live in it. ² It was He who founded the seas, and prepared the rivers upon it.

³ Who can ascend Jehovah’s mountain; who can stand in His Holy Place? ⁴ Just those with innocent hands, and those with hearts that are pure, who haven’t claimed what’s foolish for their souls, nor sworn treacherous things against neighbors. ⁵ Only these are blest by Jehovah, and get charity from their Savior, God.

⁶ This generation is seeking Jehovah; they’re seeking the face of Jacob’s God. ⁷ So, open the gates of your rulers… open the gates of the ages, so your Glorious King may now enter. ⁸ Who is this glorious King? It is Jehovah the Strong One; our Lord who is the great warrior. ⁹ Yes, open the gates of your rulers… open the gates of the ages, so your glorious King may now enter. ¹⁰ And who is this glorious King? It’s the God of armies, Jehovah. Yes, He is the glorious King.

Psalm 25

A Psalm of David.

¹ I’ve lifted my life up to You, O Jehovah, ² for You are my God to whom I’ve submitted. So, through the age may I not be disgraced, nor may my enemies make sport of me. ³ For, those clinging to You won’t be disgraced, but shame those who’ve rebelled for no reason.

⁴ O Jehovah; You have shown me Your ways, now teach me to walk in Your paths! ⁵ Guide me in ways of truth, and teach me that You are My Savior, my God, for I’ve waited on You all my days.

⁶ Remember Your compassions O Jehovah, for You’ve shown mercy through the ages. ⁷ Please forget the sins of my youth… don’t remember what I’ve done in my ignorance. But in Your great mercy, speak of me to Yourself, for You’re so kind, O Jehovah.

⁸ Jehovah is upright and kind, and He’ll uphold His Laws ‘gainst those who are sinning. ⁹ But He’ll guide the meek ones toward justice, and teach the gentle His ways. ¹⁰ For, merciful are the ways of Jehovah, and to those who are hearing His words He brings truth… to those who [honor] His Sacred Agreement. ¹¹ Because of Your Name, O Jehovah, please cover my sins because they’re so great.

¹² Who’s the man that fears Jehovah? He’ll give him laws in the path he has chosen. ¹³ Then his life will be lodged among good things, and his seed will inherit the land. ¹⁴ For, Jehovah is a fort for all those who fear Him, and with them He has made an Agreement.

¹⁵ My eyes always look to Jehovah, for He pulls the snares from under my feet. ¹⁶ O look upon me and have mercy, for I am a poor only child, ¹⁷ whose pain of heart keeps on growing; so lead me toward the things that I need! ¹⁸ Look upon my humiliation; see all that I’ve done and forgive all my sins!

¹⁹ See how my enemies keep growing in number, and how the unrighteous both hate and detest me. ²⁰ O guard my life and save me; may I not be disgraced, for in You I have hoped.

²¹ The guileless and upright have stayed close to me, because I stuck with You, O Jehovah. ²² So, O Israel’s God; ransom us from all our afflictions.

Psalm 26

A Psalm of David.

¹ Please judge me O God, for [before You] I’ve traveled innocently, and I’ve put my trust in Jehovah. ² I will never weaken, so test and try me, my Lord; set my heart and my kidneys on fire.

³ Your mercies are ever in front of my eyes, and I’m well pleased with Your truth. ⁴ I’ve never sat in a high court of fools, and I don’t hang with those who break laws.

⁵ I’ve detested the gathering of those who are bad, and with the irreverent I’ll never sit. ⁶ So, in innocence I’ll wash my hands, and encircle Your Altar, O Jehovah.

⁷ Hear my voice singing praises of You, and talking about all Your wonders. ⁸ O Jehovah; I’ve loved the beauty of Your House; the place where You Tent in Your glory.

⁹ Don’t destroy my life with the Godless, nor with men of blood end my life… ¹⁰ those whose hands are filled with lawless deeds, and whose right hands are filled up with bribes.

¹¹ Ransom me for I am not guilty! Please show mercy upon me! ¹² For with my feet I walk a straight path, and I’ll praise You among the gathering, O Jehovah.

Psalm 27

A Psalm of David before his anointing.

¹ Jehovah is my light and my savior, so whom should I ever fear? Jehovah is the defender of my life, so before whom should I ever be shy?

² Those who attacked to bring evil, and wished to devour my flesh… those enemies of mine who oppress me, have all become weak and have fallen.

³ Should they against me encamp, and should they attack me in war, my hope is that my heart will not fear.

⁴ One thing have I asked of Jehovah, is to dwell in His House all my days. I wish to view the delights of Jehovah, and to visit His Holy House.

⁵ When evil arrives, He hides me in His Tent, and He is my shelter during bad days. He conceals me inside His Tent, and sets me upon a high rock.

⁶ Now, look how He’s lifted my head, high above all my enemies. So, I’ve encircled and sacrificed in His Tent; I have offered a sacrifice of praise, as I shouted aloud, sang praises, and strummed.

⁷ Listen O Lord to my voice as I cry. Show mercy upon me and hear me! ⁸ For my heart says to You, ‘I will search for Jehovah. My face has sought after You, and Your face, O God, I will seek.’

⁹ So don’t turn Your face from me, O my God… don’t turn from Your servant in anger, for You have become my great helper… do not curse me by staying away, and do not abandon or overlook me.

¹⁰ My father and mother have left me, but Jehovah has claimed me as His own. ¹¹ So, give me Your Laws O Jehovah, and teach me to walk in Your ways. And because I have many enemies, guide me down roads that are straight. ¹² Don’t hand me over to those who oppress me, for witnesses have opposed me and lied, and injustice has lied to herself.

¹³ I trust that I’ll see good things from God, while I’m still in the land of the living. ¹⁴ So, wait on Jehovah… act like a man. Wait on the Lord and make your heart strong!

Psalm 28

A Psalm of David.

¹ I’ll call out to You, O Jehovah; my God, I won’t remain silent, so You will never be silent with me, and make me like those who enter the pit. ² Listen O Lord to my voice as I beg, and I raise my arms toward Your Holy House.

³ Don’t draw me together with sinners, and don’t destroy me with the unjust. For, although they speak of peace to their neighbors, there is evil inside their hearts.

⁴ O Jehovah; Repay them for the things that they do, and for all of their wicked deeds. Return upon them the things they have done; give them a just compensation.

⁵ O Jehovah; They haven’t noticed the things You have done… all the works that You’ve done with Your hands. So, You will wipe them away, and never rebuild them again.

⁶ Praise Jehovah, for He’s heard my prayer! ⁷ He’s my helper and defender, and upon Him I have hoped in my heart. Because He’s helped me, my flesh has done well, so to Him I will sing praises.

⁸ Jehovah is the fort of His people; the defender and savior of His anointed. ⁹ So, bless Your inheritance and save Your people; tend and lift them through the ages.

Psalm 29

A Psalm of David for when the Tent was being transported.

¹ O sons of God, bring your things to Jehovah… the offspring of rams offer to God. Offer to Jehovah glory and honor… ² [speak] to the Lord of the glory of His Name, and bow before Him in His holy courtyard.

³ Upon the waters is the voice of Jehovah. For the glory of God brings thunder, and Jehovah is [over the rain]. ⁴ The voice of Jehovah is strong, and of His great majesty it speaks.

⁵ The voice of Jehovah breaks [down trees], even the cedars of Lebanon. ⁶ He thins out [the trees] like Lebanon’s calves; and as rhinoceros calves His loved ones are thinned.

⁷ The voice of Jehovah cuts through like [lightning]… ⁸ the voice of the Lord shakes the desert. Before Him trembles the Desert of Kadesh, ⁹ for the voice of our [God] fashioned the hinds.

He tears down all sacred poles, and to His House He carries those who give Him glory.

¹⁰ Jehovah brings calmness to the downpours, and seats His king through the ages.

¹¹ Jehovah shows His strength for His people; Our Lord will bless them with peace.

Psalm 30

A Psalm for the dedication of David’s palace.

¹ O Jehovah; I praise You for lifting me high, and not making my enemies glad. ² For, I called out to You, O my God, and You brought healing to me.

³ O Jehovah; You saved my life from the grave… from those going down to the pit. ⁴ So all who are holy, play music to Him; remember and acknowledge His pureness.

⁵ For, while there’s wrath in His rage, there is life in His will. And while weeping may come in the evening, in the morning there’ll come great rejoicing.

⁶ In my prosperity I once said, ‘There’s no way I’ll be shaken through the ages. ⁷ For (O Jehovah); It’s because of Your will, that You gave me both beauty and power.’ Then from me You turned away, and I became very disturbed.

⁸ ‘O Jehovah,’ I cried out to You… my God I was beseeching. ⁹ ‘What value has my blood if I die, and I rot away under the ground? Will there be knowledge of You in the dust, and will dust serve as witness to Your truth?’

¹⁰ Jehovah then heard and showed mercy on me, and He was my helper [once more]. ¹¹ So, where my [heart] once beat in fear, it has now returned to rejoicing.

¹² For, You tore off my sackcloth and wrapped me in gladness, so I’ll strum to You in my glory. And O Jehovah my God; there’s no way that I’ll ever be angry [with You], but though the ages I’ll sing Your praises.

Psalm 31

To the director; A Psalm of David about his change of state.

¹ In You O Jehovah I’ve placed my hope. May I not be disgraced through the age. Rescue me in Your justice, and take me away from this place. ² Incline Your ear and listen to me… hurry and take me away!

Become to me a God of defense, and make Your House a refuge to save me. ³ For, You are my fort and my refuge, and for the sake of Your Name, You will lead me and feed me.

⁴ O lead me out of these hidden traps, for You’re my defender O Jehovah. ⁵ I’ve entrusted my breath to Your hands, and You’ve paid my ransom, O God of truth.

⁶ You’ve detested the foolish who are wasting their time, but I’ve put my hope in Jehovah. ⁷ So, I’ll shout in praise and be glad for Your mercy, for my humiliation You have witnessed. From the wants and needs of my life You have saved me. ⁸ You’ve delivered me from my enemies’ hands, and set my feet where there’s plenty of room.

⁹ Show mercy on me O Jehovah, for I am in great distress. My eyes are disturbed and enraged, as are my soul and my belly.

¹⁰ My life has been wasted in grief, and my years have been spent in much moaning. My strength has been weakened by poorness, and all of my bones are now aching.

¹¹ I am scorned by all of my enemies, and even more so by all my neighbors. Those who know me now fear me, and the others outside have all run away.

¹² I’m forgotten like one of the dead, and my heart is like a pot that’s been broken. ¹³ I’ve heard the complaints of those traveling about, as they gather against me. They’re meeting together to kill me, ¹⁴ but I’ve put my trust in Jehovah. I said to You, ¹⁵ ‘You are my God. Into You hands I’ve entrusted my lot.’

So, rescue me from my enemies’ hands, and from all those who chase me. ¹⁶ Please show Your face to your servant, and in You great mercy please save me!

¹⁷ O Jehovah; may I not be disgraced, for upon You I have called. May the irreverent be shamed, and then be led to their graves. ¹⁸ May the lips of the deceitful be speechless, as well as those speaking against all the just, in contempt and in proud lawless ways.

¹⁹ How kind are Your ways O Jehovah, which are hidden to those who don’t fear You. For, before all the sons of men, You’ve come to the aid of the faithful.

²⁰ You’ll hide them in the concealment of Your face, from the disturbance of men [who are evil]. You’ll shelter them inside of Your Tent, away from their scolding tongues.

²¹ May Jehovah be praised for in His mercy, for, to a city surrounded He brought miracles.

²² But I said when I saw things had changed, ‘He’s thrown me away from His eyes.’ But because of this You listened to my voice, and heard what I said when I called You.

²³ O love Jehovah, all His holy ones, for truth is required by our God. But He also remembers to repay, all those who have too much pride.

So, act like men and strengthen your hearts, all you who hope in Jehovah.

Psalm 32

A Psalm of David for understanding.

¹ Blest are those who’ve been forgiven for their lawbreaking, and whose sins they’ve not covered over. ² Blest is the man God counts not a sinner, nor found treachery in his mouths.

³ I’ve become quiet as my bones have grown older; I no longer call out all day long. ⁴ For, Your hand pressed upon me both day and night, and I turned in misery as though stuck by a thorn.

⁵ I’ve admitted to You all my lawless deeds, and my sins I’ve not tried to hide. I said; ‘I’ll openly declare my lawlessness to Jehovah,’ and then You forgave my Godless heart.

⁶ For this the holy should pray at right times, so the downpour of water will never approach them: ⁷ ‘You are my refuge from the troubles around me; from those who surround me You’ve provided my ransom.’

⁸ [And He’ll reply], ‘I’ll bring understanding to you, teach you the ways you should go, and always keep My eyes upon you. ⁹ So, do not act like horses or mules, who don’t understand and must be bridled, and whose jaws must be squeezed to approach you.’

¹⁰ Sinners must be whipped many times, but mercy surrounds those hoping in Jehovah. ¹¹ So, you should take joy in Jehovah; shout in joy all you just ones, and boast about Him from you hearts.

Psalm 33

A Psalm of David.

¹ O righteous ones rejoice in Jehovah, for to the upright come His praises. ² Play to Jehovah on your harps; strum to Him on your lutes with ten strings. ³ O sing to Him a new song. Play shouting loudly and cheering!

⁴ The words of Jehovah are righteous, so trust in the things that He does. ⁵ Charity and equity are loved by God, and the earth is filled with His mercy.

⁶ By the word of Jehovah were the skies formed, and the Breath from His mouth formed their powers. ⁷ They were pulled together as a leather water bag, and seawater He placed in the treasuries of the deep.

⁸ So fear Jehovah, those living on earth, for because of Him our habitation will shake. ⁹ Why, He just spoke and it came to be; He gave the order and all was created.

¹⁰ He wipes away the plans of the nations; He annuls the devices and designs of their rulers. ¹¹ But the will of Jehovah will last through the ages; from generation to generation are the things in His heart.

¹² Blest is the nation whose God is Jehovah; those He has chosen to be His inheritance.

¹³ From out of heaven Jehovah looks down, and He watches the things the sons of men do. ¹⁴ From the home that He has prepared, He watches those dwelling on earth. ¹⁵ He alone shaped their hearts, and He sees all they have done.

¹⁶ A king won’t be saved with a large army, nor despite his great strength will a giant be delivered. ¹⁷ It’s foolish to place your salvation in a horse, for even with his power you may not be saved.

¹⁸ {Look!} The eyes of Jehovah are upon those who fear Him… those who put hope in His mercy. ¹⁹ Only He can rescue their lives from death, and feed them in times of great famine.

²⁰ So, with our whole lives we must wait on Jehovah, for He is our helper and defender. ²¹ Take joy in Him with your whole hearts, and in His Holy Name put your hope.

²² O bring Your mercy upon us Jehovah, for in You we have put all our hope.

Psalm 34

A Psalm of David of when his view of AbiMelech changed and he sent him away.

¹ I’ll praise Jehovah through all time… His praises will stay my mouth. ² I’ll praise Jehovah with my whole life, so listen you meek and be glad. ³ Glorify Jehovah with me; we’ll praise His great Name together.

⁴ I searched for Jehovah and He listened to me. He rescued me during all of my travels. ⁵ So, come to Him… be enlightened, and then your faces won’t ever be shamed.

⁶ A poor man called to God and He heard him, then He rescued him from all his problems. ⁷ A messenger of God camped around him, and He saved the one fearing His Name.

⁸ Taste and see that our God is good! The man who trusts Him will always be blest! ⁹ Fear Jehovah all you His holy, for those fearing Him will lack nothing. ¹⁰ Though the rich may go hungry and poor, those seeking God won’t lack what is good.

¹¹ Come to me children and listen, and I’ll teach you the fear of Jehovah! ¹² Who is the man that doesn’t want life, or to see days that are good? ¹³ Then remove from your tongue all that is evil, and take treachery away from your lips. ¹⁴ Turn away from the bad and do good! Search for peace and pursue it! ¹⁵ For the eyes of Jehovah are upon all the righteous, and His ears hear the things that they ask for. ¹⁶ But the face of Jehovah is against all the bad, and He’ll destroy their memory from the earth.

¹⁷ The righteous called out and God listened, then He rescued them from all of their problems. ¹⁸ For, Jehovah is near to those with broken hearts, and those humble in spirit He’ll deliver.

¹⁹ The righteous will have many afflictions, but God will save them from all. ²⁰ Jehovah watches over their bones, and not a single one will be broken.

²¹ In sadness the sinners will be brought to their deaths, and those hating the righteous He’ll offend. ²² But Jehovah will ransom the lives of His servants, and no way will He harm those hoping in Him.

Psalm 35

A Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah; Judge those who are doing me wrong! Wage war against those waging war! ² Take up Your weapon and shield; arise and come to my aid, O God!

³ Swing Your sword at those who pursue me… say You’ll deliver my life! ⁴ May those seeking my life feel shame and remorse… may those wishing me bad retreat in disgrace.

⁵ May they become as dust in the wind… may God’s messenger squeeze them all dry. ⁶ May their road become slippery and dark, and may they be chased by an angel of God.

⁷ For no just reason have they hidden away, the snares of all their corruption, as they speak badly of my soul. ⁸ Let them be caught in a snare they don’t see; may the snare that they hunt with catch them, and may they fall into the traps they have set.

⁹ With my whole life I’ll praise Jehovah, and [shout] in praise of His salvation. ¹⁰ With all my bones I’ll say to Jehovah: ‘O Lord, who can be likened to You? For You rescue the poor with a hand that’s more solid, than those who tear the needy in pieces… ¹¹ those who sent witnesses to lie against me, and asked questions I didn’t understand. ¹² They’ve repaid the good that I’ve done with evil, and left my life without children. ¹³ Because of their trouble I’ve put on sackcloth, and humbled my life by fasting. Then the prayer in my [heart], was that I might soon be returned.

¹⁴ As neighbors and brothers they once were so pleasing, so in mourning and sadness I humbled myself. ¹⁵ But they were happy and gathered against me, and weren’t sad when they cut me with whips. ¹⁶ They tried me and then they made fun… against me they gnashed their teeth. ¹⁷ O Jehovah; How much longer will You allow this to happen? Restore my life from their evil deeds!

¹⁸ [You said], ‘My only child; I will save you from the lions! I’ll praise you to the whole assembly, and before those bad people I’ll exalt you!’

¹⁹ So, may those who hate me without reason not rejoice… those who detest me without any charge… those shun me with their eyes. ²⁰ For, though to me they once spoke of peace, in anger and treachery they’ve plotted against me. ²¹ Then they opened their mouths wide against me and said, ‘Well done, well done. Now we’ve seen it with our eyes.’

²² You have witnessed it all, O Jehovah! So, don’t remain silent or leave me. ²³ Awake O Jehovah… pay attention to my case! Take notice of my cause, O my God. ²⁴ Judge me, O Jehovah, and show me Your justice… my God, don’t let them rejoice. ²⁵ Don’t allow then to say of our lives in their hearts, ‘Well done; yes, it’s well done.’ Nor allow them to say, ‘We have swallowed him down.’

²⁶ May those who’ve rejoiced at my harm feel ashamed, and those speaking against me be remorseful. ²⁷ May those seeking justice shout in joy and be glad, saying: ‘Praise Jehovah for bringing peace to His servant!’ ²⁸ Then with my tongue I’ll speak of Your justice, and sing in Your praise all my days.

Psalm 36

To the director; to the servant of Jehovah, David.

¹ The lawbreaker says about his sins: ‘There is no God to fear before my eyes.’ ² So he acts in treachery before [God], who’ll expose his detestable lawbreaking. ³ For, with his mouth he speaks treachery and lawlessness, and he doesn’t wish to know what is good. ⁴ He dreams of crime as he lies in his bed. He does nothing worthwhile, and he does not hate any evil.

⁵ O Jehovah who lives in the heavens; Your mercy and truth to the clouds do arise. ⁶ Your justice is like the mountain of God, and Your judgments an abyss that saves men and cattle. ⁷ O God; How many ways Your mercies are shown, for in the protection of Your wings, the sons of men put their hope. ⁸ They’ll be drunk on the fatness of Your House, and You’ll delight them with water from Your stream. ⁹ For, the spring of life comes from You, and from Your light we’ll see light. ¹⁰ So, extend Your mercy to all those who know You, and Your justice to those with straight hearts.

¹¹ May the feet of the proud not attack me, nor may I be shaken by sinner’s hands. ¹² May all who work at lawlessness fall, rejected and unable to stand.

Psalm 37

A Psalm of David.

¹ Don’t be jealous of those who are wicked, or envious of those who break laws. ² For, like grass they’ll quickly be dried, and they’ll wilt away like young shoots.

³ Hope in Jehovah and act kindly. Live off the ground and its riches will serve you. ⁴ Take joy in [Jehovah your God], and He will provide all the things in your heart.

⁵ Hope in Jehovah and show Him your way, and He will be sure to act. ⁶ He’ll bring to light your righteous deeds, and the things you do will shine as at noon.

⁷ Put your trust in Jehovah… yes to Him you should pray. Don’t be jealous of those who prosper from crime. ⁸ Stop being angry and abandon your rage. Don’t allow zeal to make you act wicked. ⁹ For, those who are wicked will soon be destroyed, but those waiting on Jehovah will inherit the earth.

¹⁰ In just a short time the sinners will be gone; you’ll look where he was and not find him. ¹¹ But the meek will inherit the earth, and find great delight in the abundance of peace.

¹² Sinners keep an eye on the righteous, and grind their teeth as they see them. ¹³ But Jehovah is laughing at them, for He sees what will happen in His Day.

¹⁴ Sinners have drawn their broadswords, and stretched their bows very tight, to attack the poor and the needy, and to kill the ones with straight hearts. ¹⁵ But, may their swords strike their own hearts, and may their bows be broken in pieces. ¹⁶ For, a little is better to the righteous, than great wealth is to those who are sinners.

¹⁷ The arms of sinners will be broken, but Jehovah will support all the just. ¹⁸ He knows the ways of those without flaws, and they will inherit through the ages. ¹⁹ They won’t be disgraced in hard times, and in days of famine they’ll be filled.

²⁰ For the sinners will all be destroyed, along with the enemies of God. Then those who’ve promoted themselves into glory, will vanish away just like smoke.

²¹ The sinner borrows and doesn’t repay, but the righteous feel pity and contribute. ²² And those who bless him will inherit the earth, but destruction awaits all those cursing him.

²³ Jehovah straightens the footsteps of man, and all should wish for His ways. ²⁴ Then if he should fall he won’t break, for Jehovah is holding his hand.

²⁵ I was once young and now I’ve grown old, and I’ve never seen the righteous abandoned, or his seed ever begging for bread. ²⁶ Each day he shows mercy by lending to the righteous, thus his seed will always be blest.

²⁷ So, turn away from evil… do good, and live through ages of ages! ²⁸ For Jehovah is a lover of justice, and through the age He’ll not abandon the holy. The righteous will always be guarded, as those without law are driven away.

The seed of the Godless will be done away with, ²⁹ but the righteous will inherit the earth, and live there through ages of ages.

³⁰ The mouths of the just will think and speak wisely… they’ll talk of equity and justice. ³¹ And because God’s Law is within their hearts, they will not stumble and fall.

³² The sinner thinks of the righteous, and then searches for ways to kill them. ³³ But Jehovah won’t abandon them to his hands, nor judge them in condemnation.

³⁴ Wait on Jehovah and follow His ways, and He’ll exalt you to inherit the land. Then you will see the sinners destroyed, ³⁵ and they’ll see you lifted high, like the cedars of Lebanon. ³⁶ I went by, and look… he was not! I searched in his place and he’s gone!

³⁷ So, guard your honesty and innocence, for only the peaceable will be allowed to survive. ³⁸ Then those without law will all be destroyed, along with the remaining irreverent. ³⁹ But Jehovah will save all the righteous; He’ll defend them in times of oppression. ⁴⁰ Jehovah will help them and save them; He’ll remove them from all of the sinners. Yes, He will deliver and save them, because in Him they’ve put their trust.

Psalm 38

A Psalm of David to be remembered on the Sabbath.

¹ O Jehovah; Don’t discipline me in Your rage, nor in Your anger correct me. ² For Your arrows have already struck me, and Your hand has been heavy upon me. ³ My flesh has not healed from the rage of Your face, and there is no peace in my bones for my sins. ⁴ All my bad deeds hang over my head… they oppress me and weigh me down.

⁵ The stripes of my foolishness fester and smell, ⁶ and I walk through the day in misery and sadness. ⁷ My flanks have been filled mockery, and there’s no healing in my flesh.

⁸ I’ve been humbled and afflicted with evil. I have roared from the moaning in my heart. ⁹ O Jehovah; Before You are all the things I desire, and my moaning to You can’t be hidden.

¹⁰ My heart is disturbed for my strength is all gone, and even my eyes do not work. ¹¹ My friends and my neighbors oppose me; they approach me but stand at a distance.

¹² Those seeking my life and wishing for bad things, speak foolishness and plan deceit all day long. ¹³ But like a deaf man I pretend to not hear; and like someone who is mute, I won’t open my mouth. ¹⁴ I became like a man without hearing, and with nothing to say in reply. ¹⁵ For I’ve put my trust in You, O Jehovah… I’ve hoped that You would listen, my God. ¹⁶ I said, ‘May my enemies not rejoice at my fall, nor may my feet tremble as they’re speaking against me.

¹⁷ I’m ready for all of their whips… I’m prepared and ready to suffer. ¹⁸ I’m willing to admit all my lawless deeds, and I’m anxious about all my sins.

¹⁹ But my enemies have camped all around me, and those who detest me for no reason keep increasing. ²⁰ They’re those who repaid my good things with bad, and lied when I was on trial.

²¹ Do not leave me, O Jehovah. Yes, my God, do not leave me! ²² Hear my pleas for help, O my God; O Jehovah, please bring me salvation.

Psalm 39

To the director; an ode of David to IdiThun.

¹ I promised to guard all my ways, and not to sin with my tongue. I’ve put a lock on my mouth, whenever sinners are standing before Me.

² I’ve been made mute, and humble, and quiet. When my pain was renewed, I spoke no good words. ³ For my heart became hot within me, burning away all my thoughts.

Then I spoke with my tongue and I said: ⁴ ‘O Jehovah, show me my limits, and the number of days I will live, so I can come to know all the things that I lack. ⁵ {Look!} You’ve given me the days of a palm, yet I am nothing before You, and foolish are the ways of all men.’

⁶ When a man travels he may carry an idol, for he puts trust in what’s foolish; and he carries his treasures along, but he knows not why he collects them.

⁷ So, how then can I endure, if not with the support of Jehovah? ⁸ O save me from my own lawless deeds, for the scorn of fools You’ve [heaped on] me.

⁹ I became mute and would not open my mouth, for You are the One who made me. ¹⁰ So, please bring an end to Your whippings, for I have failed in the strength of Your hands.

¹¹ You correct men with the discipline of the lawless, and like a spider his life wastes away… this is the folly of men.

¹² Hear my prayer O Jehovah! Give ear as I beg in my tears! Don’t stay silent for I’ve traveled with You, as did all of my fathers.

¹³ O spare me so I can be refreshed before leaving… before I no longer exist.

Psalm 40

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ I persevered and waited on Jehovah, and then He noticed and heard my prayers. ² He led me from the misery of the pit, and pulled me from the mud and slime. Then He stood my feet on a rock, and straightened the way that I walk. ³ He put a new song in my mouth… He gave me a sacred hymn to our God.

Many will see fear and then hope in Jehovah, ⁴ for the man is blest who puts hope in God’s Name… not in folly or false frenzies does he walk.

⁵ There are so many things that You’ve done, O Jehovah. Your ways are wondrous O my God; and there are none that are like You, so about all Your ways I’ve reported and spoken, and they keep growing beyond number.

⁶ Sacrifices and offerings You never wanted, so You prepared a body for me. You did not seek whole burnt offerings, nor sacrifices [to cover their] sins.

⁷ Then I said: ‘Look I have come… in the scroll of the Psalms it was written about me. ⁸ I came to do Your will O my God, for Your Law lies deep in my [heart].’

⁹ ‘Your righteousness I have told among the great assembly. Look, O Jehovah; You know that I’ll not hold back my lips! ¹⁰ I didn’t hide the righteousness in my heart, nor Your truth or salvation… I did not hide Your mercy and truth, from before the whole congregation.

¹¹ O Jehovah; Don’t keep Your compassions from me… may Your mercy and truth hold me fast, ¹² for innumerable bad things surround me. Among my lawless deeds I’ve been captured, yet I was unable to see [them]. They’ve multiplied like the hairs on my head, and my own heart has left me.

¹³ Think well of me and save me O God… O Jehovah, pay attention and help me! ¹⁴ May those who are seeking my life (those who wish to lift it away), all together feel shame and disgrace.

May those who wish to do evil, fell shame and be forced to retreat. ¹⁵ Let them feel their shame right away… those saying of me ‘Well done, well done.’

¹⁶ O Jehovah; May all those who seek You be glad and shout in joy… may all those who love Your salvation, always shout aloud ‘Praise Jehovah!’

¹⁷ I am poor and in need, so remember me O my God. For, You are my helper and defender… my God, don’t wait or delay.

Psalm 41

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ Blest is the one who pays attention, to those who are poor and in need, for in the evil day Jehovah will save them. ² May Jehovah bless him and guard him, and keep him alive in the land, and not hand him over to his enemies. ³ May God help him in the bed of his grief, and turn his bed during his illness.

⁴ I said, ‘O Lord, show mercy on me. Heal my life for I’ve sinned against You.’ ⁵ Yet, my enemies said bad things about me. They asked, ‘When will he be dead and gone?’

⁶ The foolish once came to see me, and they spoke from their hearts. They also brought the lawless along, and then they went outside to talk. ⁷ All of my enemies then whispered, and came up with a plot against me. ⁸ Theirs was an illegal plan, for they said: ‘He may go to bed, but he will never get up.’ ⁹ And a man with whom I had peace, and on whom I always had counted… a man who had eaten my bread at my table, spoke against me with plans of deceit.

¹⁰ But You, O Jehovah, showed mercy on me. You lifted me up and repaid them. ¹¹ By this I knew that you [loved] me, and against me my enemies will not rejoice.

¹² Because of my innocence You helped me, and through the ages stood me strong before You. ¹³ Praise Jehovah, Israel’s God, through the age and into the ages of ages.

May it be, amen.

Psalm 42

To the director; the contemplation of the sons of KorAh.

¹ As a stag longs for springs of water, that’s how my heart longs for You, O my God. ² For, my life thirsts for the mighty living God, so when may I come and appear before You?

³ My tears have become my bread day and night; each day they ask me ‘Where’s your God?’ ⁴ I think of such things and then, I pour out my soul [before You].

I’ll go to the wonderful Tent; I’ll go to the House of my God. I’ll go shouting aloud and praising, as with the sounds of a day that is holy.

⁵ O man inside me, why are you so dejected, and why do you disturb me so much? You must put hope in our God, then I’ll sing in praise of the ways He has saved me.

⁶ O my God I’m so bothered inside, and this is why I’m so bothered: I remember You in the land of the Jordan, and from little Mount Herman.

⁷ At the sound of Your floods, the deep abyss cries out [in fear], for Your crests and waves passed me over. ⁸ By day Jehovah instructs of His mercy, and I pray at night He will bring it; this God [who watches over] my life.

⁹ I will say to God, ‘You’re my shield. So why have You overlooked me? Why must I look so downcast, as I must squeeze past my enemies?’

¹⁰ They berate me as they break up my bones, and afflict me each day as they ask, ‘And now; Where is your God?’

¹¹ So man within me, why are you very dejected, and why do you so disturb me? Put all of your hope in our God. Then I will praise my salvation, as well as [the Name] of my God.

Psalm 43

A Psalm of David.

¹ Judge me O God… try my case, among an unholy nation. From the unjust and deceitful please save me.

² You’re the God of my fortification, so why have you thrust me away? Why must I be so downhearted, when by my enemies I’m being oppressed?

³ Send out Your light and Your truth to guide me, to Your Tent and Your Holy Mountain. ⁴ Then I’ll go up to the Altar of God; to the God of my youth, who back then brought me joy.

⁵ Why have You rejected my life, and why are You upsetting me so? I’ll hope in God and sing praises to Him. Please save my life, O my God.

Psalm 44

To the director; a Contemplation of the sons of KorAh.

¹ O God; With our ears we have heard it, for our fathers have announced them to us… the deeds that You did in their days long ago. ² With Your hand You planted nations and destroyed them. You oppressed the people and drove them out. ³ For they couldn’t inherit their land with their swords, nor could they be saved by their arms. Just with Your right hand and arm, and by the light of Your face… that is, if You liked them.

⁴ You are He, O my King and my God, who gave instructions for the saving of Jacob. ⁵ So, our enemies we will soon gore; and all those who rise up against us, we will treat with contempt in Your Name. ⁶ So, I won’t put trust in my bow, nor in my broadsword to save me, ⁷ for it’s He who saved us from those who oppress us, and who disgraced the ones that detest us. ⁸ Thus we’ll praise God every day, and through the ages Your Name we will bless.

⁹ But now You’ve pushed us away and disgraced us, and You, O God, will not lead our armies. ¹⁰ You forced us to run from our enemies, and given us as plunder to all those who hate us. ¹¹ Like sheep, You gave us as food, and You scattered us among all the nations. ¹² You treated Your people as worthless, and placed them as of no value. ¹³ You’ve made us the scorn of our neighbors, to be taunted and sneered at by all those around us. ¹⁴ You’ve made us a parable among all the nations; as those at whom the people shake their heads.

¹⁵ All day long my shame stands before me, and I’m covered with the shame of my face. ¹⁶ I hear the voice of berating and disrespect, from our enemies who have carried us off. ¹⁷ Yet, though all these things have happened to us, we haven’t forgotten You [O our God], nor have we broken our Agreement with You. ¹⁸ We’ve not left our hearts in the rear, nor turned from the paths of Your Ways.

¹⁹ You have humbled us here in this place of oppression, and covered us in the shadow of death. ²⁰ Yet, if we had forgotten the Name of our God, and turned to the hands of foreign gods, ²¹ then shouldn’t such things have been expected? For, He knows the secrets in our hearts.

²² Because of You we’re killed all day long, and considered as sheep for the slaughter. ²³ So, wake up… why do You sleep O Jehovah? Stand up; don’t push us away ‘til the end. ²⁴ O why have You turned Your face, and forgotten our misery and affliction? ²⁵ For, our lives have been humbled to dust, and our bellies have been forced to the ground. ²⁶ So, arise O Jehovah and help us! Ransom us for the sake of Your Name!

Psalm 45

To the director: Regarding the changes. An ode of contemplation of the loved one by the sons of KorAh.

¹ My heart has thrust out good words, and quickly I write my work to the king, for my tongue has become like a reed pen, as held in the hands of a scribe.

² More beautiful than the sons of men, is the favor that pours from your lips. ³ And for this may our God always be praised, into the ages of ages.

³ Strap your sword to your thigh in your beauty! ⁴ O mighty one; stretch tight your bow in fineness! Bless us and rule us in truth; in gentleness as well as in justice. Guide us with your wonderful right hand.

⁵ Sharpen your arrows, O mighty one. For, the peoples beneath you must fall… all enemies in the heart of the king.

⁶ Your throne, O [great one], is through ages of ages, and your Kingdom is led with your scepter so straight.

⁷ For, you’ve loved righteousness and hated law breaking. And for this God anointed you with oil, and praised you above your fellow partakers.

⁸ Your clothes smell of myrrh, balsam, and fruit, that comes from palaces made of ivory, ⁹ and the daughters of kings delight in your honor. Your queen stands at your right hand, in clothes embroidered with gold all around.

¹⁰ Hear O daughter and behold! Incline your ear and forget your own people… those in the house of your father. ¹¹ For the king has desired your beauty, and he is your [sovereign] lord.

¹² So, bow low before him you daughters of Tyre. And you who are rich, bring gifts for his favor.

¹³ [His queen] has all the glory, of the king of HeshBon’s daughter, for she’s wrapped in embroidered fringes of gold.

¹⁴ Then all the virgins who follow in her train (those closest to her) will be carried to you. ¹⁵ They will be carried in gladness and praising, and led to the king’s Holy Abode.

¹⁶ In place of your fathers sons will be born, and on the whole earth you’ll appoint them as rulers.

¹⁷ From generation on to generation I’ll remember your Name. Because of this all people will praise you, throughout the age, and into the age of the ages.

Psalm 46

To the director; by sons of KorAh regarding secret things

¹ Our God is our refuge and powerful helper, against the many problems that come upon us. ² On account of this we will not be afraid, when the earth is disturbed and the mountains fall into the seas.

³ By His force the watershave roared, and all the mountains were disturbed. ⁴ But the city of God was made glad, by the movements of the river.

The Most High has made His Tent the most holy. ⁵ God is in its midst and it will not be shaken. For, morning-by-morning God brings her His help.

⁶ Nations were disturbed and kingdoms tottered; the Most High shouted and the whole earth shook. ⁷ For Jehovah of armies is with us; the God of Jacob is our shield.

⁸ Come and see the works of God… the miracles that He’s brought to the earth! ⁹ For He takes away wars to the ends of the earth; then He’ll break the bow… He’ll burn all the weapons and shields in a fire.

¹⁰ ‘Relax and know that I’m God. I’ll be raised high among the nations… I’ll be raised high in the earth.’

¹¹ Jehovah of armies is with us; the God of Jacob is our shield.

Psalm 47

For the director; by the sons of KorAh

¹ Clap your hands all you nations; with a joyful cry call out to God. ² For Jehovah the Most High is to be feared… the great King over all the earth.

³ He has caused all the peoples to submit; He’s put nations under our feet. ⁴ As His inheritance He chose us, for He loves the beauty of Jacob.

⁵ To God ascended a shout; to Jehovah the sound of the trumpet was heard. ⁶ So, play your music to our God; strum [your lutes] to our King.

⁷ God is King of all the earth, so to God play your instruments with expertice. ⁸ For God rules over all the nations, and He sits on His most holy throne.

⁹ The rulers of peoples are brought together, under the God of Abraham; for only by God have the strong of the earth been raised.

Psalm 48

A Psalm; an ode by the sons of KorAh for the second Sabbath.

¹ O how great is Jehovah… may He be praised in the city… our God on His Holy Mountain. ² Leap for joy all you on the earth, for the side of Mount Zion is to the north, in the city of the great king. ³ In her palaces God is well known, for it is He who comes to her aid.

⁴ Look! The kings of the earth have been gathered! They’ve all come to the very same place! ⁵ When they saw it they were amazed, but they were also shaken and disturbed. ⁶ For then they all started to tremble, as with the pains of a woman giving birth.

⁷ You’ll bring a violent storm, and break all the boats of Tarshish. ⁸ Just as we’ve heard we’ll also see, the city of Jehovah of armies. It is the city of our God; the one that God founded through the ages.

⁹ We’ve received Your mercy O God, as we stood among all Your people. ¹⁰ O God; May Your Name be praised to the ends of the earth, for Your right hand is filled with justice.

¹¹ Be glad Mount Zion… shout in joy you daughters of Judea, because of the judgments of Jehovah. ¹² Encircle Zion and grab her; describe all of her towers. ¹³ Keep all her armies within Your Heart, and make her palaces strong, so You may show them to future generations.

¹⁴ This is our God through the age, and into the ages of ages. For, into the age He will tend us.

Psalm 49

To the director; by the sons of KorAh.

¹ Listen to this all you nations; give ear you who dwell in the land; ² you earth-born and sons of men, both the rich and those who’re in need. ³ For my mouth will now speak of wisdom, and the thoughts of my heart about understanding. ⁴ I’ll incline my ear with a parable, and explain my riddle in a song.

⁵ Why do I fear the wicked day, when the lawless are at my heels and surround me… ⁶ those who enforce their own power, and brag of their wealth before all?

⁷ Shall a brother serve as a ransom for man? Why, he cannot pay God for even himself! ⁸ For, if he tries to ransom himself, through the age he’ll grow weary of trying. ⁹ Thus, may he live ‘till the end, so his body will not see corruption.

¹⁰ When a wise man dies, with the fool and the mindless he passes away, and the wealth that he leaves is then passed on to strangers. ¹¹ Thereafter his home is his tomb… it’s his tent from generation to generation. They may call their land after his name, ¹² but no one sees the honor in that.

[This man] is then like the cattle, for like them he’s not thinking at all. ¹³ This is the snare in their path, for they take pleasure in the things that they speak of, ¹⁴ but they go down to their graves just like sheep, and there they are tended by death.

The upright will dominate them in the morning, but there’ll be no help in their graves, where they and their glory are banished. ¹⁵ Only God will ransom my life, out of the hand of the grave, whenever He should choose to take me.

¹⁶ So, don’t be afraid when you see a rich man, or when his house is glorified. ¹⁷ For, when he dies he’ll take nothing along, and his glory goes down along with him. ¹⁸ But the man that he is and his life will be blest, if he honors you when you treat him well.

¹⁹ From generation to generation he’ll go down to his fathers, and through the ages he’ll never see light. ²⁰ For a man of honor doesn’t know, that he resembles the unthinking cattle, and [his end] is very much like them.

Psalm 50

A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ Jehovah is the God of all gods, for He speaks and calls the sun from the east, where it crosses the earth to where it descends.

² It’s from Zion that the glory of His beauty shines forth. ³ [From there] our God will soon be seen coming, and He’ll not be silent thereafter. For a fire will go before Him and burn, and a gale will blow all around Him. ⁴ He’ll call to the earth from the heavens above, and separate all of His people.

⁵ He’ll gather His holy ones to Him (those who sacrifice to His Sacred Agreement), ⁶ then He’ll announce His judgments ‘cross the skies, for God is always our judge. ⁷ He’ll say: ‘Hear Me O My people and I’ll speak… listen O Israel and I’ll testify, for I am God… I’m your God. ⁸ Over sacrifices I will not discipline you, for your whole burnt-offerings have always been there. ⁹ But I don’t want to take the calves from your house, nor your flocks or winter yearlings. ¹⁰ For the beasts in the fields are all Mine, as are the cattle and oxen in the hills. ¹¹ I know all the winged creatures of the sky, and the beauty of the fields come from Me.

¹² ‘If I would get hungry I’d never tell you, for all things in man’s habitation are Mine. ¹³ Should I eat bull meat or drink the blood of male goats? ¹⁴ Why not sacrifice to God an offering of praise, and render your vows to the Most High? ¹⁵ Then you’ll call upon Me in the day of affliction, and I will [be there to] save you… and you will then speak of My glory.’

¹⁶ But to the sinner God asked: ‘Why do you take up My Laws, and speak with your mouth of My Sacred Agreement? ¹⁷ For you have hated all My instructions, and you’ve thrown all My words behind you! ¹⁸ Why, if you saw a thief you’d run with him, for with adulterers your lot has been cast. ¹⁹ Your mouth is filled with what’s bad, and your tongue is twisted in lies. ²⁰ Against your own brother you sat and said bad things… you set snares for the son of your mother!

²¹ ‘Then, because I said nothing when you broke My Laws, you thought that I was like you. But I will soon discipline you… I’ll stand in your face for your sins! ²² So notice, all you who’ve forgotten your God, for the time will come when He’ll snatch you away, and no one will then come to save you. ²³ So, though you may offer Me glory with a sacrifice of praise, there’s no way that I’ll grant you salvation.’

Psalm 51

To the director; A Psalm of David when the Prophet Nathan came to him over his taking BathSheba the wife of UriJah.

¹ Show mercy upon me O God, in Your abundant compassions. Wipe away my violation of Your Law; ² wash all my lawlessness away, and cleanse me of all my sins. ³ For I know all the laws I have broken, and my sin is ever before me.

⁴ Against You alone I have sinned, and it’s a wicked thing that I’ve done. So, Your words against me are righteous, and I should be humble when I’m being judged.

⁵ Look! In lawlessness I was conceived, and the strange food of sin I craved from my mother.

⁶ {Look!} You’ve loved [exposing] the truth, about all things that are hidden, and the wisdom of what’s hidden You have shown me. ⁷ So, sprinkle me now with branches of hyssop, so I can then become cleansed; wash me with the snow from above, so I can also be whitened.

⁸ Allow me to hear cheering and gladness, and my humbled bones will once more be cheerful. ⁹ Turn Your face away from my sins, and wipe all my lawlessness away.

¹⁰ O God; Create in me a heart that is clean, and renew me inside with a spirit that’s upright. ¹¹ Don’t reel and turn Your face in disgust, nor take away the Holy Breath.

¹² Return to me the joy of salvation. Support me and give me Your Breath to rule [well]. ¹³ Then I will teach the lawless Your ways, and turn the irreverent back to You.

¹⁴ O God my Savior; From the guilt of this blood please save me, ³¹ then my tongue will shout in praise of Your justice. ¹⁵ O Jehovah; Then to You I’ll open my lips, and with my mouth I will praise You.

¹⁶ If You wanted a sacrifice I would give it, but You don’t think well of burnt offerings. ¹⁷ The sacrifice God wants is a spirit that’s broken, and He doesn’t look down on a heart that’s been humbled.

¹⁸ O Jehovah; In Your good will, do the best thing for Zion, and allow Jerusalem’s walls to be built. ¹⁹ Think well of sacrifices that are righteous, then they’ll bring burnt offerings to Your Altar.

Psalm 52

To the director; A Psalm of David’s contemplation, regarding the time when DoEg the Idumean went to Saul to tell him that David had gone to the house of AbiMelek.

¹ O mighty one; Why do you boast of your evil, and your lawlessness throughout the whole day? ² Unrighteousness thinks of your tongue, as treacherous as the strap for a razor. ³ For, you’ve preferred evil to goodness, and what is unrighteous to telling the truth. ⁴ You have loved words that drown, as well as the tongue of deceit.

⁵ For this, our God will destroy you in the end. He’ll pluck you out of your tent, and [pull] your root from the land of the living. ⁶ Then you will see the fear of the righteous, and at you they will laugh and then say, ⁷ ‘Look at the man who chose not God as his helper, but hoped in his wealth, and in his foolishness felt strong.’

⁸ But in the House of my God, I’m like a tree with ripe olives. For through the ages I’ve hoped in His mercy; in my God I’ve put hope through the ages. ⁹ So, through the ages I’ll praise You, for You have finally brought results. And I will wait on Your Name, because You’ve provided for Your holy ones.

Psalm 53

To the director; A Psalm for the harp. A contemplation of David.

¹ ‘There is no God’ says the fool in his heart. For in their lawbreaking they’re corrupt and disgusting. There is no one doing good!

² God looks down from His place in the sky, and watches sons of men to see if they notice, or if any are searching for Him.

³ They’ve all turned away and are useless; not one does good… not one! ⁴ Don’t they know (those acting without law, those eating My people like bread) that they should call to Jehovah?

⁵ So, they are in fear when there’s nothing to fear. And God scatters the bones, of those who try to please men. They live their lives in disgrace, for God then treats them all with contempt.

⁶ Who will be appointed from Zion, to become Israel’s savior? Only God will return the captives of His people, then Jacob will shout and Israel will be glad.

Psalm 54

To the director; one of the hymns of contemplation by David, regarding the time when the Ziphites said to Saul, ‘{Look!} Isn’t David hiding among us?’

¹ O God; For the sake of Your Name please save me, and use Your power to judge me. ² O God; please hear my prayer, and listen to the words from my mouth. ³ For strangers have risen against me, and the strong who know not God seek my life.

⁴ But look, God came and He helped me; Jehovah has shielded my life! ⁵ He’ll return the bad to my enemies, and use the truth to destroy them.

⁶ So, freely I’ll offer sacrifices to You, and I will praise Your good Name. ⁷ For, from great danger You have saved me, and my eyes have seen the fulfillment of my prayers.

Psalm 55

To the director; one of the hymns of contemplation of Asaph.

¹ Give ear, O God, to my prayer; do not overlook the things that I beg for. ² Please pay attention and listen!

I was worried in my meditations; at the voice of my enemy I was disturbed, ³ and by the oppression of sinners. For, in lawlessness they’ve turned against me, and in anger they’ve shown their rage.

⁴ My heart was pounding within me, and the fear of death came upon me… ⁵ I feared, was shaking, and was covered by darkness. ⁶ So I asked: ‘{Please] won’t You give me the wings of a dove, so I can spread them and go find some rest?’

⁷ {Look!} I was far off and driven to exile… I was forced to live in the desert, ⁸ as I waited for someone to save me, from my own fears and the storm. ⁹ O Jehovah please sink them! Make them speak different tongues! For I have seen how lawless they are, and I’ve heard their disputes in the city.

¹⁰ Day and night He’ll encircle her walls, for lawlessness and misery dwell in her midst. ¹¹ There’s always injustice in her squares, as well as treachery and loans with high interest.

¹² Had I been slandered by an enemy, I would just have endured it. And if someone who detests me had spoken great words, I would have hidden from him. ¹³ But it’s you, O man, someone like me… a leader of mine and a Seer! ¹⁴ It was you who once sweetened our food, and we lived in one house altogether!

¹⁵ May death come to them all, and may they go alive into their graves. For wickedness travels among them, and it lives in their midst.

¹⁶ I cried out to God, and He heard me. ¹⁷ So, at morning, and noon, and at evening, I’ll tell Him the things that I want, and He’ll listen to the things that I ask. ¹⁸ He will ransom my life for peace, from those once with me who now attack me. ¹⁹ God will listen and humiliate them (He who exists through the ages). There’ll be no one who can bargain with Him, for they fail to fear God.

²⁰ He stretched out His hand and repaid, all those who profaned His Sacred Agreement. ²¹ With the rage of His face He’ll cut them to pieces, and then He will snatch out their hearts. For though His words are soft as olive oil, He also can use them like arrows.

²² Upon Jehovah throw all your worries, and He’ll nourish and take care of you. For, He won’t allow ages to pass, while the righteous are tossed all about.

²³ But You, O God, will lead those men of blood and deception, into the well of corruption. There’s no way they will live even half of their days, for Jehovah I’m trusting in You.

Psalm 56

To the director; for the people, from the holy things of David, for an inscription on a monument, which [was written] when the Philistines held him at Gath.

¹ Show mercy upon me O God, for a man has trampled on me all day long, and oppressed me in a great war. ² By my enemies I’ve been beaten all day; they’ve warred with me from the heights. ³ But I will not fear the day, for in You I’ll [put all my] trust. ⁴ I’ll praise God with my words all day long… I’ve put all my hope in [my] God, so I’ll not fear what flesh can do.

⁵ They’ve hated my words all day long, and just think of the bad they can do. ⁶ They run and hide and watch for my heel, as they patiently wait for my life. ⁷ Yet, You will not save them, and You will destroy all their rage.

⁸ O God; My whole life I’ve given to You, and You’ve watched for my tears as You promised. ⁹ So, on the day that I call out, You’ll make my enemies retreat.

{Look!} I have known that you are my God, ¹⁰ so I will praise the council of God, and I will praise the words of Jehovah. ¹¹ I have put all my hope in my God, so I will not fear what men can do.

¹² Inside me, O God, are the vows that I’ve made to Your praise, ¹³ for from death You have saved my life. I keep my tears in my eyes, so they won’t allow my feet to stumble, and in the light of the living, I can then please Jehovah.

Psalm 57

To the director; ‘Do not Destroy,’ by David. For an inscription on a monument regarding the time he ran away from Saul [and hid in] a cave.

¹ O God, show mercy on me… please show mercy on me! For, to You I have given my life, and in the shadow of Your wings I’ll put hope, until this lawlessness has passed me by. ² I will call to God the Most High; the One by whom I am blest.

³ From heaven He’s sent me protection; God heaped scorn on those who’d walk on me. God sent His mercy and truth, ⁴ and saved my life from the midst of young lions.

Whenever I went to bed, by the sons of men I was troubled. For their teeth are just like their weapons, and their arrows are like sharpened swords. ⁵ So, O God, may You be raised above the sky, and may Your glory be above the whole earth.

⁶ They have set snares for my feet, and my soul they’ve brought to the ground. They’ve dug a cesspool in front of my face, but they are the ones who fell in it.

⁷ My heart is ready O God, and I will sing and play in my glory. ⁸ So, awaken my glory and awaken my harp, when I arise at the dawning. ⁹ Then among the peoples I’ll praise You O Lord, and among all the nations I’ll strum to [Your Name]. ¹⁰ For Your mercy has been raised higher than the sky, and Your Truth is above all the clouds. ¹¹ So, above the heavens may You be raised… may Your glory [shine] over earth, O God.

Psalm 58

To the director; ‘Do Not Destroy,’ by David. An inscription on a monument.

¹ In righteousness will you not speak… in justice won’t you judge sons of men? ² From your hearts you bring lawlessness to the land, and your hands are wrapped in injustice!

³ Sinners are ever being born from the womb, and wander from the belly speaking lies. ⁴ Their rage is like that of snakes; as asps that are unable to speak, they plug their ears ⁵ so they don’t hear the sounds of [snake] charmers. Yet, they deliver the potions of witches. ⁶ So God has broken the teeth in their mouths… their molars of lions He’s broken to pieces.

⁷ He treats them with contempt as though they were water… He’ll stretch tight His bow ‘til they’re beaten. ⁸ They’ll be removed like beeswax that melts… fire will hit them and they’ll not see the sun. ⁹ He views their thorn-bushes as white-thorned shrubs, so He’ll swallow them down still alive in His rage.

¹⁰ All will rejoice when they see how they’re punished, for in the blood of sinners He’ll then wash His hands. ¹¹ And each man will declare this the fruit of the just; for there is a God who brings justice to the earth.’

Psalm 59

To the director; ‘Do Not Corrupt’ by David. An inscription on a monument about the time when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him.

¹ Rescue me from my enemies, O God; ransom me from those who attack me. ² Deliver me from those without law, and save me from men of blood.

³ {Look!} For my life they’ve been hunting… they’ve sent their mighty against me. And it’s not because I’ve been lawless, O Lord, nor is it due to my sins! ⁴ Although I have broken no laws, from them I had to flee… awaken to meet me and see!

⁵ O God Jehovah of armies… O God of Israel take notice… come and visit the nations! Don’t pity those who are lawless… ⁶ may they return starved in the evening, and like dogs may they roam through the town.

⁷ They shout with their swords to their lips, as they ask ‘Who is paying attention?’ ⁸ But You, O Jehovah should be laughing out loud, and treating the nations with contempt.

⁹ With all my might You’ll be my God, for You are my shield [and protector]. ¹⁰ The mercy of God goes before me, and He’ll show what I desire for my enemies.

¹¹ Don’t kill them so Your Laws will not be forgotten, but scatter them with Your great power. O my defender Jehovah; make them be led far away. ¹² For the sins of their mouths and the words on their lips, let them fall into captivity. May they be cursed for their pride and their lies. ¹³ In Your rage consume them, so they no longer exist. Then they’ll know Jacob’s Master is God, to the ends of the earth.

¹⁴ When they return in the evening may they starve, and like dogs may they roam through the town. ¹⁵ May they be scattered to search for their food, and when they’re not filled let them grumble.

¹⁶ I’ll sing of all Your great power, and Your mercies I’ll praise every morning; for You have become my shield, and my refuge in my day of affliction.

¹⁷ You are my helper, so to You I will strum; yes to You, for You are my God. O God, You are my shield, and to me You have shown such great mercy.

Psalm 60

To the director; ‘The Changings.’ For an inscription on a monument by David, as a lesson about when he set the MesoPotamians of the Syrian [army] under Sobal, and when JoAb returned and cut down twelve thousand of Edom in the ravine of salts.

¹ O God; You’ve demolished and thrust us away, but though You were mad You felt pity. ² You have shaken the land and disturbed it, so now heal the cracks that resulted.

³ You have taught Your people hard lessons; You have watered us down with the wine of Your rage. ⁴ But You’ve given a signal to the ones fearing You, to flee from the face of the bow, ⁵ and You saved all those whom You love… O hear me and save me with Your hands!

⁶ From His Holy Place our God spoke, saying: ‘I will shout and then divide Shechem… the valley of tents I’ll divide. ⁷ Gilead is Mine and ManasSeh is Mine; EphraIm is the fort of My head, and Judah is the place of My king. ⁸ And over Idumea He said: Moab is the kettle of My hope; I will stretch out My sandal, and then the Philistines will submit.’

⁹ To the citadel in the city who can bring me, and who can guide Me to Idumea? ¹⁰ Wasn’t it You O God who thrust us away? O God; with our army won’t You travel?

¹¹ O help us in our affliction, for the salvation of man is in vain. ¹² Only by God do we have any might… He can treat with contempt all who oppress us.

Psalm 61

To the director; one of the hymns of David. A Psalm.

¹ Listen O God to the things that I beg… please pay attention to my prayer. ² From the ends of the earth I called out to You, when my heart was discouraged at the Rock; then You lifted me high and gave me direction.

³ Before my enemies You were my hope; You were my tower and strength. ⁴ So, I’ll go to Your Tent through the ages; I’ll seek shelter in the protection of Your wings. ⁵ For You, O God, have heard what I vowed, and an inheritance You’ll give to those fearing Your Name.

⁶ Day after day, add life to the king, into generations of generations. ⁷ Yes, may he live before God through the ages, and search for His truth and His mercy. ⁸ Thus through the ages I’ll sing to Your Name; and render my vows day by day.

Psalm 62

To the director; for IdiThoun. A Psalm by David.

¹ Shouldn’t my life be given to God? Shouldn’t I trust in Him for my salvation? ² For, He is my God and my Savior… since He’s my shield, I’ll not fear armies that are greater.

³ How long will You pile so much upon man? For it’s like a wall that is leaning, or a fence with many gaps… and then You bring death to us all.

⁴ They’ve conspired to take away my honor, so from them I fled away. For, though they blest with their mouths, in their hearts all they did was curse me.

⁵ But I have submitted my soul to my God, and trusted in Him to endure. ⁶ He is my God and my Savior; He is my shield so I’ll never leave Him.

⁷ God’s my salvation and glory… He’s my hope, so in God I will trust. ⁸ You of the gathering should put hope in Him… He is you helper so pour out your hearts. ⁹ In the sons of men put no hope, for they are all like false weights, which are used to cheat you on scales… to mislead you and do you wrong. ¹⁰ And in unrighteousness don’t put your hope… don’t long for things you can steal; or if great wealth stands before you, don’t let it enter your hearts.

¹¹ God once spoke, and these two things I heard Him say: ‘Might comes from God… ¹² from Jehovah comes mercy; and He pays back each one for the things that he does.’

Psalm 63

A Psalm by David about the time he spent in the desert of Idumea.

¹ O God (my God), I rise early for You, because my soul thirsts for You. How often has my flesh longed for You, in a land that is barren, unwalked, and dry. ² So, to Your Holy Place I have come, to behold Your power and glory; ³ for Your mercy is better than life, so my lips will [sing to Your Name].

⁴ With my whole life I will praise You, and Your Name I will lift with my hands. ⁵ With the fat of fatness may my life become filled, and with lips of joy may my mouth offer praise.

⁶ I’m thinking of You as I lie on my bed, in meditation of You as dawn’s breaking. ⁷ For, You are my helper so I’ll call out in joy, as I lie in the protection of Your wings.

⁸ To You my soul will stick closely, and I’ll grab hold of Your right hand, ⁹ because they are searching for my life. So, to the depths of the ground may they go. ¹⁰ May they be given to the hands of the sword; the reward of the foxes may they be given.

¹¹ But the king will find joy in [his] God, and swear an oath unto Him; for He has stopped up the mouths, of those who speak unrighteous things.

Psalm 64

To the director; A Psalm by David.

¹ O God hear my voice, for I’m begging to You. Of my enemies I am in fear, so, please come save my life! ² From the conspiracy of the wicked give me shelter… from the crowd of all the unrighteous. ³ For they’ve sharpened their tongues just like broadswords, and in bitterness they’ve stretched tight their bows, ⁴ to shoot from hiding at the unblemished… they’ll shoot him and not be in fear.

⁵ They’ve determined for themselves a matter that’s evil; they’ve described to each other how to hide all their snares, and then they asked ‘Who will see them?’ ⁶ They’ve searched among the lawbreakers, but they have failed in their search, for not a man would come forward, who had any depth in his heart.

⁷ May God be praised, for the arrows of the inexperienced, are the things that brought them calamity. ⁸ Though they spoke in contempt with their tongues, and all who viewed them were bothered… ⁹ of the works of my God their men were afraid, once they saw that He [truly was with me].

¹⁰ May the upright find joy in Jehovah, and in Him put all their trust, for He blesses those with straight hearts.

Psalm 65

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ I’m sending this hymn from Zion, O God; from Jerusalem I’m sending this vow; ² so please hear this prayer [that I offer], for before You all flesh must come.

³ Though we’ve been overpowered by the words of the lawless, for our irreverence You’ll still atone. ⁴ Blest are those whom You’ve chosen and claimed, for in Your courtyards they’ll camp. And there we’ll be filled with good things, from Your House and Holy Tent.

⁵ Your righteousness leaves us in awe, so hear us our Savior, O God! ⁶ You’re the hope of all to the ends of the earth, and the ones far away on the sea. It was You who made mighty mountains, ⁷ and it’s You who brings disturbance to the seas; and who can stand at the sound of their waves? ⁸ But that’s how nations will soon be disturbed, and those dwelling at the ends [of the earth] will know fear.

⁹ Your signs bless the exits of mornings and evenings; You’ve intoxicated the earth with Your visits. From the river of God You’ve enriched it; You’ve nourished it with water You prepared.

¹⁰ You’ve sent [much water to the ground], to saturate the rows to produce. You’ve sent her drops to make everything grow, and there’s joy in watching them spring from the ground.

¹¹ You graciously bless the crown of the year, when Your plains will be filled up with fatness. ¹² The beautiful mountains will also be fat, as will be true of the desert. Then wrapped [in green] the hills will become; ¹³ there’ll be wool on the rams and the sheep, and in the valleys much grain will then grow, and they’ll cry out and sing to Your praise.

Psalm 66

To the director; a Psalm of awaking.

¹ Shout to Jehovah all you on the earth; ² play [a song] to His Name! Shout in praise of His Glory! ³ Say to God ‘Your works must be feared. In the magnitude of Your power, may all Your enemies lie. ⁴ May the whole earth bow down before You, and strum [a song] to Your [Name] in the heights.’

⁵ Come witness the works of our God! They’re more to be feared than the decisions of men. ⁶ For, He changed the sea to dry land, then the rivers they crossed on their feet.

In Him all should find joy, ⁷ for He is the master in all His dominion. His eyes have been watching the nations for ages, so may those who enrage Him not set themselves high.

⁸ Praise our God O you nations… shouts of praise let everyone hear! ⁹ For He’s the One who gave my soul life, and allowed nothing to be thrown at my feet.

¹⁰ You have tried us O God; You have refined us like silver. ¹¹ You’ve led us into the snare, and upon our backs laid oppression. ¹² Over our heads You’ve assigned men; but through fire and water You led us to rest.

¹³ So, with whole burnt offerings I’ll go to Your House, and render to You all my vows… ¹⁴ those things that my lips have opened to say; those words my mouth said in my affliction.

¹⁵ Burnt offerings filled with marrow and incense I will offer, along with rams, oxen, and winter yearlings. ¹⁶ Come and listen and I will describe, to you all of my fear of my God, and the things He has done for my life.

¹⁷ To Him my mouth has cried out, and I’ve [praised His Name] with my tongue, saying: ¹⁸ ‘If You have found injustice in my heart, don’t listen to me, O Jehovah.’ ¹⁹ And because of this He listened to me… He heard the voice of my prayers! ²⁰ So may [our] God be praised, for not ignoring my prayer, and not taking His mercy away.

Psalm 67

To the director; A Psalm of David from among the hymns.

¹ O God, feel pity and bless us; show mercy and shine Your face upon us.

² Throughout the whole earth may Your ways be made known, and may all nations know of Your salvation… ³ may all peoples acknowledge You O God; may everyone know of Your [fame].

⁴ O nations be glad and cry out, for You’ll judge the peoples in straightness… the nations of the earth You will guide.

⁵ May all the peoples acknowledge You O God; may everyone know of Your [fame].

⁶ The earth has given her fruit, so may He bless us… O God, our God. ⁷ May God give us His blessings, and may He be feared to the ends of the earth.

Psalm 68

To the director; a Psalm of David.

¹ May God arise and scatter His enemies; may those who detest Him flee from His face. ² Like smoke may they just blow away, and melt like beeswax in the face of a fire.

That’s how the sinners will all be destroyed, before the face of our God. ³ But the righteous have reason for gladness, so, may they shout in joy in the presence of God… let them be blest with gladness.

⁴ Sing to God! Strum to His Name! Open the way to the One riding west; Jehovah is His [great] Name! May all shout before Him in joy, and before His face may all be disturbed. ⁵ For He is a Father to orphans, and He provides justice for widows… such is our God in His Holy Place.

⁶ God settles common people in their homes, and leads out prisoners bound in shackles. He does the same for those who are bitter, and those who are dwelling in tombs.

⁷ O God; As You passed by Your people, and as You were crossing the desert, ⁸ the earth was shaken and the skies dripped with water, before the face of the God of Sinai… before the face of the Israel’s God.

⁹ O God; From Your inheritance will You take the rain? For though there was little, You then restored it. ¹⁰ Why, by it You cause the animals to live, and in Your kindness You provide for the poor.

¹¹ The Great God Jehovah will speak, and announce good news to the army. ¹² For, He loves the king of the army, and in the beauty of his house they’ll divide up the spoils.

¹³ Although you may camp between ash heaps, you will sleep amidst doves with silver-plated wings, and green and gold on their backs.

¹⁴ The Heavenly One gives orders to kings, and makes them like snow on Mount Selmon… ¹⁵ the mountain of God, the mountain of plenty, the fourth great mountain of provision. ¹⁶ O mountains; why would God choose to dwell upon you, for Jehovah camps at the extremes, ¹⁷ and the chariots of God number in the millions. Yet, from His Holy Place on Mount Sinai, the Lord sends His provisions.

¹⁸ He stepped up into the highest place, and carried off captivity as a captive; then he gave gifts to the men, and he camped among all who resisted. ¹⁹ So, praise Jehovah our God! Praise Jehovah each day! For You are the One who blest us, O God; yes, You are our Savior.

²⁰ Our God is the God of salvation… from the brink of death He brings salvation! ²¹ But God will shatter the heads of His enemies… the tops of hairy heads of those walking in sin.

²² Jehovah spoke and He said: ‘I will return them from Bashan; I’ll return them from the depths of the sea. ²³ Then your feet will be dipped in your enemy’s blood, and it will stain the tongues of your dogs.’

²⁴ O God; From Your Holy Place Your travels are seen; the goings of my God the King. ²⁵ Rulers have traveled before You, followed by women playing lutes and tambourines. ²⁶ May God be praised in the gathering, and to Israel’s springs. ²⁷ For there (in astonishment) young BenJamin is the ruler, of the princes of Judah and their governors, and the rulers of Zebulun and NaphTali.

²⁸ Give orders, O God, to Your power; make stronger the things that You’re doing among us; ²⁹ Then, because of Your Holy Place in Jerusalem, the kings [of the earth] will carry You gifts. ³⁰ Scold the wild beasts in the reeds, and the bulls that are scattered among heifers. Lock up the people who by silver are seduced, and scatter the nations… all those who want war.

³¹ Ambassadors are coming from Egypt, and Ethiopians will lead them with their hands out to God. ³² O kingdoms of the earth; sing before God and play music; ³³ strum to Jehovah who lives in the sky… in the heavens above in the east. Look; He will shout in a powerful voice! ³⁴ So give glory to Israel’s God, for His majesty and power are up in the clouds.

³⁵ God’s wonders are in His most Sacred Placei it’s where Israel’s God sends His power; it’s where He fortifies His people… praise God!

Psalm 69

To the director; for the changings. A Psalm of David.

¹ Save me O God, for my life [is drowning] in water. It’s deep and slimy and I have no support… ² I’ve come to the depths of the sea, for the winds of a gale have sunk me. ³ From crying out I am tired, and my throat is now very sore. My eyes also have failed me, but I have put trust in my God. ⁴ For my enemies number more than the hairs on my head… they are the ones who detest me. My enemies are now very strong… those driving me out unjustly. And things that I took not by force, I’m now required to repay.

⁵ O God; You know all my foolishness and sins; from You they are never concealed. ⁶ So, may those who are trusting in You O God, never be ashamed over me. O Jehovah of armies; may they not be ashamed over me… all those who are seeking Israel’s God.

⁷ Because of You I am scorned, and my face has been covered in shame. ⁸ I’ve been driven away from my brothers… I’m a stranger to the sons of my mother. ⁹ Although zeal for Your House has consumed me, the scorn of blasphemers has fallen upon me. ¹⁰ My life is now wrapped up in fasting, and this gives them reason to laugh. ¹¹ For when I dressed up in sackcloth, I became like a parable among them.

¹² Those sitting at the gates are pondering me, and even the drunks are singing about me. ¹³ But to You O Jehovah I’ll cry out in prayer… O God I’ll await the time that You’ve chosen, when in Your mercies You will heed me, and bring the truth of Your salvation.

¹⁴ O save me so I’m not stuck in this mud! Pull me from the waters of those who detest me! ¹⁵ May the gale not sink me in water, nor swallow me down in the mouth of its well. ¹⁶ Listen to me O Jehovah, for Your mercies are all very kind. In Your compassion look down upon me! ¹⁷ Don’t turn Your face from Your servant; in my affliction quickly heed me. ¹⁸ To my soul give attention and pay my ransom; because of my enemies save me!

¹⁹ You know of my scorn, my shame, and remorse. For, before You those who hate me stand in their scorn. ²⁰ In the misery of my life I thought others would grieve, but they didn’t exist or bring comfort. ²¹ As food they offered me bile, and vinegar they offered for my thirst. ²² But to them may their table become a snare; in repayment may it stand in their way. ²³ May their eyes become dark and not see, and may their backs be bent over double. ²⁴ On them pour out Your anger and rage; may they be caught in Your anger. ²⁵ May the houses they own become empty, and may no one live in their tents. ²⁶ For they’ve chased the one that You struck, and to the pain of my wounds they have added. ²⁷ For their lawlessness may they see lawlessness; may they not enter Your justice. ²⁸ From the Scroll of the Living may their names be erased, and among the righteous may their names not be written.

²⁹ I stand in Your presence, poor and in pain; O God take hold of me please. ³⁰ I’ll praise the Name of my God… with a song I will sing of His glory. ³¹ Then, God above will be pleased, with a calf that has hooves and is sprouting his horns. ³² Let all the poor people then see it, and let them also rejoice.

Inquire of God and your soul will then live, ³³ for Jehovah hears all those who’re in need, as well as those who are forced to wear shackles. He’ll never treat you with contempt. ³⁴ So, praise Him you heavens, you earth, and you sea, and all the things that might crawl there, ³⁵ for Zion will be saved by our God; the cities of Judea will be rebuilt; and the people will inherit and live there. ³⁶ The seed of Your servants will own it, and those loving Your Name will encamp there.

Psalm 70

To the director; A Psalm of David in remembrance of his being saved by Jehovah.

¹ O God, please hear me and help me; O Jehovah, rush to my aid! ² May those seeking my life feel shame and remorse; may those wishing to harm me retreat in disgrace. ³ May those saying of me ‘Well done, well done,’ turn back and then be ashamed. ⁴ May those who seek You be glad and rejoice, and those loving Your salvation always say ‘Praise Jehovah.’ ⁵ Please help me O God, for I’m poor and in need… You’re my helper and Savior, so do not delay!

Psalm 71

A Psalm of David that was sung by the sons of JoNadab who were the first to be carried off as captives.

¹ Upon You O Jehovah I’ve hoped, so may I not be disgraced through the age. ² In Your justice please save me and take me. Incline Your ear [to hear] and deliver! ³ Become to me a God of defense, and carry me to a fortified place. To me You’re real so please save me, for You are truly my refuge.

⁴ From the hands of sinners God saves me… from the lawless and those doing wrong. ⁵ O Jehovah, You’re my endurance… the One who I’ve trusted since I was young. ⁶ I have stayed with You from the womb; from the belly of my mother You’ve been my shelter, so to You I will always sing praises.

⁷ A miracle You’ve become to so many, and You are my helper and fortress. ⁸ So, may my mouth sing in praise of Your glory, and of Your majesty throughout the whole day. ⁹ Don’t toss me away when I have grown old; don’t abandon me when my strength has failed.

¹⁰ My enemies all met and against me they spoke; together those seeking my life laid their plots, ¹¹ saying; ‘God has left him so let’s chase and catch him, for there’s no one left to come to his rescue.’

¹² O my God, don’t stay far away; my God pay attention and help me! ¹³ May those who slander my soul fail in shame. May those wishing me bad feel shame and remorse.

¹⁴ In You I will always put trust, and add to this that I’ll praise You. ¹⁵ My mouth will speak of Your justice all day, and Your salvation I’ll proclaim in writing.

¹⁶ I will walk in the might of Jehovah. O Jehovah, I’ll speak of Your justice. ¹⁷ O God, from my youth You have taught me, and now I’ll speak of Your wonders.

¹⁸ When I am old, O my God, don’t leave me until I’ve spoken of Your arm, to all the coming generations. ¹⁹ I’ll tell of Your justice and might O my God, and of the magnificent things You have done. O God; who can be likened to You?

²⁰ You have shown me bad and affliction, and then You turned and gave back my life. Yes, from the abyss You brought me; from out of the ground You have led me.

²¹ With the abundance of Your greatness You blest me… You returned to offer me comfort. And then You led me from the abyss… You led me up from the ground.

²² O Jehovah; I’ll praise You among all the peoples; I will play songs to Your truth, O my God. O the Holy One of Israel, to You I’ll strum on my harp. ²³ I’ll shout in praise as I strum before You, for You have ransomed my life. ²⁴ With my tongue I’ll speak of Your justice, when those doing bad are shamed and remorseful.

Psalm 72

For Solomon; A Psalm of David.

¹ O God give Your judgments to the king, and to the king’s son teach justice, ² so Your people will be judged in justice, and the poor will be treated in fairness.

³ Let the mountains be lifted in peace to Your people, and may the hills too offer them justice. ⁴ May he judge the poor of the people; may he save the sons of the needy, and humble those who’d extort them.

⁵ As long as the sun may he live… for generations of generations like the moon. ⁶ May he pour down like rain upon fleece, as raindrops that fall to the ground.

⁷ May his days stand for justice and peace, until the moon is no more. ⁸ From sea to sea may he rule, and from rivers to the ends of man’s habitation.

⁹ Before him may the Ethiopians fall; may all his enemies lick the dust. ¹⁰ May Kings of Tharsis and the islands bring presents; may kings of Saba and Arabia offer gifts. ¹¹ May the kings of the earth bow low before him… may all the nations serve before him. ¹² Because he’ll save the poor from the mighty, as well as the needy with no other helpers.

¹³ May he spare the poor and the needy; may he save the lives of those who have little. ¹⁴ From interest and injustice he’ll ransom their souls, and his name will be valued among them.

¹⁵ Long may he live, and may he be given Arabian gold. They should pray for him always, and praise his name every day. ¹⁶ May he [walk cross] the earth, and [stand on the tops of] great mountains. May his fruit be higher than Lebanon’s [trees], and his cities blossom as the grass of the earth. ¹⁷ May his name be praised through the ages; may his name endure [as long as] the sun. May the tribes of the earth praise his name; may all nations call him the blest one.

¹⁸ Praise Jehovah, Israel’s God, for it’s He alone who does wonders! ¹⁹ Praise His Name and glory through the ages, and through the ages of ages! May all the earth be filled with His glory… amen, amen, may it be.

20 Thus ended the hymns of David the son of Jesse.

Psalm 73

A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ O how good is Israel’s God, to those who have hearts that are straight!

² Once my feet were a little unsteady, and I slipped and fell in my tracks. ³ For I became jealous for things that are wrong, as I noticed the peace of the wicked. ⁴ For they have no fear of dying, nor is there proof that they’ve ever been whipped. ⁵ They never work hard as other men do, nor like them are they ever lashed.

⁶ Because of this they are proud to the end, and in injustice and irreverence wrap themselves. ⁷ Their injustice pours from their fatness, as they follow the ways of their hearts.

⁸ First they think, then they speak wicked things; in their pride they speak of injustice. ⁹ They set heaven against their own mouths, as their tongues go down under the ground.

¹⁰ Yet, through all of this my people will return, and then full days will they find. ¹¹ But they ask ‘Doesn’t God really know? Isn’t this all known up above? ¹² Look! The sinners continue to prosper, and through the ages hold onto their wealth!’

¹³ My heart has justified things that are foolish… in innocent things I’ve washed my hands. ¹⁴ So I deserve whippings all through the day, and to be scolded each morning.’

¹⁵ I said: ‘This is the way and now I’ll describe it… Look! I have broken the contract with Your sons! ¹⁶ But I’ve reconsidered and now it’s a burden, ¹⁷ so I’ll go to God’s [Tent] to see what works out.

¹⁸ For all their deceits You’ve appointed them bad things… You’ve thrown them down from exalted positions. ¹⁹ How far they’ve come to destruction… because they are lawless they’re suddenly gone.

²⁰ O Jehovah; while I was awake I dreamed of Your city, and I saw how You’ll treat them with contempt. ²¹ Then my heart came on fire and my kidneys were changed. ²² For I was the one deserving contempt… an unthinking brute I’d become.

²³ Despite all I’ve done You never left me… You held me by my right hand. ²⁴ You gave me correction and led me, then received me back in Your glory.

²⁵ Now; what do I have in the heavens, and (other than You) what needs do I have on this earth? ²⁶ O God, my heart and my flesh have both failed… now You are my portion and strength through the age.

²⁷ {Look!} All those will perish who stay far from You… those unfaithful to You You’ll destroy. ²⁸ But stay with me O my God, for it’s good for me to trust in Jehovah. At the gates, before the daughters of Zion, may I ever sing in Your praise.

Psalm 74

A Psalm of contemplation by Asaph.

¹ O God; Why have You pushed us away to the end? Why are You mad at the sheep of Your pasture? ² Remember the gathering You acquired at the start – the rod of Your inheritance and those You have ransomed, when You first camped on Mount Zion.

³ Lift up Your hands and drive out their pride, as the enemy has done to Your Holy Place. ⁴ For those who hate You now feel they can brag, and on Your Sacred Day claim success as their sign.

⁵ They do not know that this came from above, so they went to the woods and cut down the trees, ⁶ and with axes and chisels broken our gates, ⁷ then burned Your [Tent] to the ground. They’ve profaned the Tent of Your Name, ⁸ and said in their hearts to their brothers: ‘Let’s drive God’s Holy Days from the land, ⁹ for we’ve not seen signs or a Prophet, and God doesn’t know us not anymore.’

¹⁰ How long, O God, will our enemies berate us, and promote opposition to Your Name through the age? ¹¹ O why have You taken Your right hand away, and kept Your hand in Your bosom?

¹² But our God the King lives through the ages, and He brings salvation to our land. ¹³ You hold back the seas with Your power, and the heads of dragons You break on the water. ¹⁴ You fractured the head of the beast, and to Ethiopians gave him as food. ¹⁵ You tore open the rivers and springs, and dried up the creeks that always held water.

¹⁶ The days are all Yours and so are the nights; for it’s You who created the sun and the moon. ¹⁷ It’s You who set the boundaries on the earth, and it’s You who made summer and spring. ¹⁸ So, remember all of this, Your creation!

An enemy is berating Jehovah, and the foolish are provoking His Name. ¹⁹ Don’t leave the praise of Your Name to wild beasts, and don’t forget those in need in the end.

²⁰ Yes, they’ve overlooked Your Sacred Agreement, and the land has been darkened by homes of lawbreakers. ²¹ But don’t turn away from those humbled and disgraced, for the poor and needy are still praising Your Name.

²² Stand up, O God, and judge Your great cause… remember those fools who ridicule You! ²³ And do not forget the voice of Your servants, or the pride of all those who hate You, that ascends throughout the whole day.

Psalm 75

To the director; Do Not Destroy. A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ I will praise You O God; of You I will speak and I’ll call on Your Name. I will describe all Your wonders, ² and at the right time [You’ll] bring righteous judgment. ³ For the land has melted away, as have all who live on it, though You are the One who made its columns strong.

⁴ I have spoken to all the unrighteous, and told them not to break laws. And to the sinners I said: ‘Don’t raise your [battle] horns high. ⁵ Do not raise your horns to the heights, or speak unrighteously of God. ⁶ For you cannot escape to the valleys, or into the deserts or mountains. ⁷ Because God is our judge, this one He humbles, and that one He raises up high.’

⁸ A cup is in the hand of Jehovah, and it’s filled with wine that is pure. And though He leans it this way and that, the wine and its dregs never spill… and from it the sinners must soon drink their fill.

⁹ Through the age I’ll shout in praise to Jehovah; to the God of Jacob I’ll strum. ¹⁰ For the horns of the sinners He’ll shatter to pieces, and the horns of the righteous will be raised.

Psalm 76

To the director; one of the Psalms of Asaph. An ode about Assyria.

¹ God is made known in Judea, and in Israel His Name is now great. ² His home is in Zion, so His place now knows peace. ³ It’s here that He broke the bows, shields, and broadswords, and brought an [end] to the war.

⁴ From the mountain of ages You sent forth the light, ⁵ and You disturbed all those senseless of heart.

All the wealthy men went to sleep, and then found nothing in their hands. ⁶ The men riding horses slept too, and You laughed at them, God of Jacob. ⁷ For You are to be feared and none can oppose You; so how much longer will Your rage last?

⁸ From out of heaven Your decisions were heard, as the land was still and in fear. ⁹ But You stood up in justice O God, to save the meek of the land. ¹⁰ So the thoughts inside men give You praise, and what’s left in their minds celebrate You.

¹¹ Make a vow and pay it to Jehovah… all you who live nearby bring Him gifts! ¹² Fear Him, for He takes the spirit from rulers, and of Him all the kings are in terror.

Psalm 77

To the director; a Psalm of Asaph for IdiThun.

¹ With my voice I called to Jehovah… I shouted to God [in hope] that He’d listen. ² In the day of attack I begged to my God… my hands were before Him all through the night. I was never [contented], and my soul refused to take comfort, ³ for I remembered my God and was troubled. When I thought my spirit grew faint, ⁴ and when I closed my eyes I saw enemies, so I was disturbed and I could not speak.

⁵ Then I reasoned about days of old, and remembered the years of the ages. ⁶ In my heart I thought and discussed it at night, and then my breath became still. ⁷ Will God reject me through the ages? Will Jehovah like me no more? ⁸ Will I be cut from His mercy through the age? Through generations will He no longer reply? ⁹ Will God forget to show pity? In His anger will He forget His compassions?

¹⁰ Then I said ‘I will change… and then there’ll be a change in His right hand. ¹¹ I’ll remember the works of Jehovah, and think of how all Your wonders began. ¹² On the things You have done I’ll meditate… I’ll contemplate all Your works.’

¹³ O God; Your ways can be found in Your [Tent], for what God is as great as our God? ¹⁴ You are the God who does wonders… You make known Your power among all the people. ¹⁵ With Your arm You ransomed Your people… the sons of Jacob and Joseph.

¹⁶ O God, the waters beheld You; they saw You and their depths were in fear. ¹⁷ Rain and great thunder came from the clouds, and Your arrows shot far and near. ¹⁸ From the thunder of Your wheels there came lightning, which trembled and shook man’s habitation.

¹⁹ Your ways can be found in the seas, and Your roads are found in the rivers, so Your footsteps can never be known. ²⁰ But You guided Your people like sheep, through the hands of Moses and Aaron.

Psalm 78

A contemplation of Asaph.

¹ O my people pay attention to my law. Lean your ear to the words of my mouth. ² For my mouth will now speak illustrations; I’ll speak in riddles from the beginning.

³ We’ve heard of it so many times, for to us our fathers spoke about them. ⁴ From their children they did not hide it, for they told it to each generation. [They spoke] in praise of Jehovah and His rule, and of all the wonders He’s done. ⁵ For He has provided a witness in Jacob, and a Law He has put within Israel. He gave orders to fathers to teach it to their sons, ⁶ so each generation would know, and the sons being born would pass it along, ⁷ so that all would put trust in God, and never forget the things He has done, or to inquire of all His Commandments, ⁸ so unlike their ancestors they’ll never be crooked. For they were a crooked and a bitter generation, which did not straighten their hearts… they had a spirit that God did not trust.

⁹ Sons of EphraIm stretched their bows and they shot, and saved in the day of the battle. ¹⁰ But they failed to keep their Agreement with God, and His Laws they wished not to follow. ¹¹ They forgot all the good things He’s done, and all the wonders He’d shown them; ¹² the wonders He showed to their fathers in Egypt, as well as in the Plain of Tanis, ¹³ when He tore open the sea and led them on through it, and stood up the waters as though in a bag. ¹⁴ Then He guided them with a cloud through the day, and by the light of a fire at night. ¹⁵ Then He split the rock in the desert, and from a deep abyss gave them something to drink. ¹⁶ For He brought water from a stone, and a river thereafter flowed from it.

¹⁷ But then they turned and sinned against Him; they embittered the Most High at Horeb. ¹⁸ They put God to the test in their hearts, when they asked for food for their lives. ¹⁹ They spoke ill of God when they asked, ‘Can God set a table in the desert?’ ²⁰ Yet, He struck the rock and from there it flowed water; a stream poured across the whole land. So, how could they ask if He’d provide bread, or if He could prepare a table for His people? ²¹ Then Jehovah heard all of this, which made Him so very angry. So He lighted a fire within Jacob, and brought His rage upon Israel. ²² For they failed to put trust in their God, and in His power to save them.

²³ Then He gave orders to the clouds far above, and the doors of the heavens were opened. ²⁴ And manna rained down for them to consume; the bread of heaven He gave them. ²⁵ So, man ate the bread of angels, and He sent them enough to fill them. ²⁶ Thereafter He sent the wind from the sky; by His power He brought the wind from the south, ²⁷ and it rained meat upon them like dust; winged feathered creatures as the sands of the sea. ²⁸ They fell in the midst of their camp, and around all of their tents. ²⁹ So they ate and became very full… He brought them all they desired. ³⁰ They weren’t deprived of the things that they wanted, but while the food was still in their mouths, ³¹ the anger of God came upon them.

Then He brought death among those who were faithful, and He held back the chosen of Israel; ³² for in all these things they had sinned, since they didn’t trust in His wonders. ³³ So, they ended their days there in folly, and their years ended too soon. ³⁴ Whenever He killed them they’d turn back and seek Him; they’d arise early to search for their God. ³⁵ They would remember that God was their helper; it was the Most High God who paid their ransom. ³⁶ And though with their mouths they told how they loved Him, with their tongues they also told lies. ³⁷ With Him their hearts were not straight, nor did they trust His Agreement. ³⁸ Yet, He felt pity and covered their sins; He did not destroy and show them His rage, or allow His anger to blaze. ³⁹ He remembered that they are just flesh; like wind that blows and never returns.

⁴⁰ They made Him bitter in the desert, and provoked Him to anger in a waterless land. ⁴¹ Then they turned and put God to the test; the Holy One of Israel they enraged. ⁴² They did not remember His hand on that day, when He used it to ransom them from their oppression. ⁴³ Or how He brought the signs upon Egypt, and in the Plain of Tanis brought miracles; ⁴⁴ of how He turned their rivers to blood, as well as their rain so they could not drink it. ⁴⁵ Then He sent them the fleas that bit them, followed by frogs that brought them to ruin. ⁴⁶ Thereafter He appointed the blight on their fruit, and sent them the misery of locusts. ⁴⁷ He killed their grapevines with hail, and their sycamore trees with cold frost. ⁴⁸ He brought down the hail on their cattle, and burned their possessions in fire.

⁴⁹ Then He sent them the anger of His rage, by commissioning upon them wicked angels. ⁵⁰ He opened the road of His anger, and spared not their lives from death. And even the lives of their cattle, were also consigned then to death. ⁵¹ He struck all the firstborn in Egypt; He brought misery upon the tents of Ham. ⁵² Then He parted His people like sheep, and like flocks He led them into the desert. ⁵³ They weren’t afraid so He led them, then He covered their enemies in the sea. ⁵⁴ Next He brought them to His Holy Mountain; those He’d repurchased with His mighty right hand. ⁵⁵ Before His face He drove away nations, and set aside an inheritance for them. Then He allowed them to set up their camps… the tents of Israel’s tribes.

⁵⁶ But they tested and embittered God the Most High, and His [Laws] they would not keep. ⁵⁷ They turned and annulled their [Agreement with Him], and like their fathers were like crooked bows. ⁵⁸ In their hills they provoked Him to anger, and made Him jealous with things that they carved. ⁵⁹ God heard what they’d done so He turned away, and treated Israel with contempt. ⁶⁰ The Tent in Shiloh He pushed away; the Tent where He camped among men. ⁶¹ Then into captivity He delivered their strength… their beauty to their enemy’s hands. ⁶² He handed His people to broadswords… His inheritance He then overlooked. ⁶³ Their young men were burned up in fires, and their virgins were never mourned. ⁶⁴ Their Priests fell by the sword, and no one wept for their widows.

⁶⁵ Then Jehovah awakened from sleep, as a Mighty One dizzy from wine. ⁶⁶ He struck His enemies and made them retreat, and appointed them scorn through the ages. ⁶⁷ But the tent of Joseph He rejected, and the tribe of EphraIm He didn’t choose. ⁶⁸ He chose the tribe of Judah on Mount Zion, which was the place that He loved, ⁶⁹ and there He built His Holy Place… He laid its foundation on the ground through the ages. ⁷⁰ Then He chose David His servant, and took him away from his flocks. ⁷¹ From those giving birth he left to tend Jacob… God’s servant Israel (His inheritance). ⁷² So in innocence of heart he cared for them, and in the skill of his hands guided them.

Psalm 79

A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ O God; Unto Your inheritance the nations have come, and in Jerusalem they defiled Your most holy House. Why, into a storehouse for fruit they have turned it!

² So the decaying flesh of Your servants, is now food for birds in the sky… Your holy ones are now food, for animals that live on the ground.

³ In Jerusalem their blood has been poured out like water, and their bodies have been left unburied. ⁴ We’ve become an object of scorn to our neighbors; to be sneered at and taunted by those round about.

⁵ How long, O Jehovah, will [You let] this to happen? Will You be angry forever? Will Your zeal keep burning like fire?

⁶ Pour out Your rage on the nations instead; on those who don’t know You and don’t bear Your Name. ⁷ For they have swallowed down Jacob, and turned his place into ruins.

⁸ Forget our past lawless deeds; send Your compassions for we [need Your help]! ⁹ Help us O God our Savior, for the sake of Your glorious Name!

O Jehovah; for the sake of Your Name [come and] save us, and cover over our sins, ¹⁰ so the nations may never have reason to ask, ‘So then, where is their God?’

To the nations before us make it known; bring vengeance for the blood of Your servants! ¹¹ Bring an end to the moans of the shackled; by the might of Your arm protect them from slaughter!

¹² O Lord; Repay our neighbors seven times, for scorning and speaking abusively of You. ¹³ But we are Your people and the sheep of Your pasture. O God, through the age we’ll confess You… for generations and generations we’ll speak in Your praise.

Psalm 80

To the director; for the changings. A testimony of Asaph. A Psalm about the Assyrians.

¹ Pay attention, O You who tends Israel; Appear, You guiding the sheep of Joseph with cherubs! ² Before EphraIm, and BenJamin, and ManasSeh awaken; and use Your great might to save us! ³ O God, please return once again! Show Your face and then we’ll be saved. ⁴ O Jehovah God of armies; how long will the prayers of Your servants bring rage?

⁵ The bread of tears You have fed us, and a measure of tears we’ve been given to drink. ⁶ You’ve given us reason to fight with our neighbors, and caused our enemies to sneer in disgust. ⁷ O Jehovah God of armies; turn back Your face and we will be saved!

⁸ You removed Your grapevine from Egypt, and drove nations away in order to plant her. ⁹ You opened the way before her, then planted her roots and covered them with ground. ¹⁰ With mountains You provided her shade, and God's cedars covered her tendrils. ¹¹ She stretched out her branches to the sea, and stretched her shoots toward the rivers. ¹² So, why have You torn down her fences, and given her fruit to all who pass by? ¹³ By boars in the forest she’s being destroyed… You’re allowing pigs to feed on her!

¹⁴ O God of armies, turn back… from heaven look down and visit this grapevine! ¹⁵ Make ready the one Your right hand has planted; these sons of men You made strong for Yourself. ¹⁶ She’s been set on fire and is now being dug up; by the reproach of Your face she’s being destroyed. ¹⁷ Extend You hand toward those who’re Your men… Your right hand to those sons of men, who You once had made strong. ¹⁸ Don’t allow this separation from You. Give us back life and we’ll call on Your Name. ¹⁹ O Jehovah, God of armies; turn back Your face and we will be saved!

Psalm 81

To the director; for the wine vats. A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ Shout in joy to our helper God; call out to the God of Jacob. ² Sing and play on tambourines; make beautiful music on the harp.

³ Blow trumpets on the New Moons! Yes, trumpet, for this is Your holy day, ⁴ because it is an order to Israel… it’s the decision of Jacob’s God. ⁵ It serves as a witness to [the family] of Joseph; a decision He made as they came out of Egypt, where they heard a [language] that they didn’t understand. ⁶ He removed from their backs heavy taxes, where their hands were enslaved to carry food baskets.

⁷ You called upon Me, and from oppression I saved you. I heard you from where you hid from the storm, then I tested you at the water of dispute.

⁸ Listen to Me O my people, for I will now testify. Listen O Israel and hear Me! ⁹ There cannot be any new god among you, nor may you bow to the god of another. ¹⁰ For, I am Jehovah your God; the One who led you from Egypt. So, widen your mouth and I’ll fill it!

¹¹ Yet, My people wouldn’t listen to My voice; Israel paid no attention to Me. ¹² So I drove them away for the things they had done, and for the things they [thought] in their hearts. ¹³ If only My people would have listened; if Israel had followed My ways, ¹⁴ by their enemies I wouldn’t have let them be humbled; against those who oppress them I’d have stretched out My hand.

¹⁵ Jehovah’s enemies have all lied before Him, and their time will come in the age. ¹⁶ But He fed [His people] on the fat of the wheat, and out of the rock he fed them with honey.

Psalm 82

A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ Our God has stood in the gathering of gods, and in the midst of the gods He judges. ² So, how long will it be ‘til You judge the unrighteous; how long will You allow the sinners to exist?

³ Give justice to the orphans and poor! Make right decisions for the humble and needy! ⁴ Save the poor and the needy… rescue them from the hands of the sinners!

⁵ They did not know and didn’t perceive, in the dark places where they travel, that the earth soon will be shaken, to its very foundations.

⁶ I said ‘You are gods… of the Most High you’re sons! ⁷ But you will all die like men, and like their rulers you will all fall.’

⁸ O God; Appoint judges to judge the whole earth, for the nations are all Your inheritance.

Psalm 83

An ode. A Psalm of Asaph.

¹ O God; To whom can You be compared? O God don’t stay silent or quiet. ² For {Look!} Your enemies have shouted their [battle] cries, and those who hate You have lifted their heads. ³ Against Your people they’ve made treacherous plans, and they’re meeting against Your holy ones. ⁴ They are saying ‘Come let’s destroy them, so they are no longer a nation… may the name of Israel be remembered no more.’

⁵ Against You they met and conspired, and then they reached an agreement… ⁶ those in the tents of Idumeam and IshmaElites of Moab; those of Hagar, ⁷ Gebal, Ammon, and Amalec; along with the Philistines and the people of Tyre. ⁸ Even Assyria joined in, and to the sons of Lot they gave aid. ⁹ So, do to them as [You once did], to Midian, Sisera, and Jabin, at the wadi in Kishon. ¹⁰ For they were destroyed at EnDor, and became as manure on the ground.

¹¹ Make their rulers like Oreb and Zeb, as well as ZebeE and Salmana, ¹² who said ‘We’ll inherit God’s Holy Place.’

¹³ Make them like a whirlwind O God… like stubble that’s blown in the wind… ¹⁴ like fire that burns up a forest… like flames that burn on the mountains. ¹⁵ Chase them away with Your storm; disturb them with Your great rage; ¹⁶ fill their faces with dishonor, then they will search for Your Name.

¹⁷ O Jehovah, make them ashamed; may they be disturbed through ages of ages. May they be made to feel shame, just before they’re destroyed. ¹⁸ Make them know that Your Name is Jehovah, and that You alone are the Most High of earth.

Psalm 84

To the director; for the wine vats. By the sons of KorAh.

¹ O Jehovah of armies; How much Your Tent should be loved, ² for I long for the courtyards of Jehovah, and my flesh shouts in joy about the living God. ³ For, by Him the sparrow finds a home, and the dove finds a nest for her young.

O Jehovah of armies; [How I long for] Your Altar, for You are my King and my God. ⁴ Blest are those who stay in Your [House], for through the ages they will praise You.

⁵ Blest is the man who trusts in Your aid, for the Lord will bring joy to his heart. ⁶ And when he must enter the valley of tears, he is in line for a blessing, from He who gave him His Laws.

⁷ They may go from army to army, but in Zion is where they’ll find the God of all gods. ⁸ O Jehovah, God of armies; please hear the things that I’m praying… ⁹ see me our God and defender! Look into the face of Your anointed! ¹⁰ For, better is a day that’s spent in Your courtyards, than thousands [of days] spent elsewhere.

I’d rather be rejected in the House of my God, than to live among tents of the sinners. ¹¹ For Jehovah is a lover of truth, and mercy comes from our Lord… God cares and He will give glory… to the innocent He will bring good things.

¹² O Jehovah, God of armies; blest is the man who puts trust in You.

Psalm 85

To the director; for the sons of KorAh.

¹ O Jehovah; You have thought well of Your land, for You have returned the captives of Jacob… ² You’ve forgiven the lawless deeds of Your people, and all of their sins You have covered. ³ You’ve allowed Your anger to rest… You’ve turned away from Your rage. ⁴ Now turn toward us, O God of salvation! Turn away Your anger and rage!

⁵ Will Your anger against us last through ages? From generation to generations will it extend? ⁶ O God; When You return You’ll make us alive, for Your people will then all be joyful.

⁷ O Jehovah, show us Your mercy, and please bring to us Your salvation. ⁸ O Jehovah, I’ll hear whatever You say, for God will speak peace to His people… to those who truly are holy, and wish to return with their whole hearts. ⁹ For He is close to all those who fear Him… He saves, so in glory we will camp in our land.

¹⁰ Mercy and truth have come together, and justice and peace have now kissed. ¹¹ Truth has arisen throughout all the land, and justice is peeking from heaven. ¹² Because Jehovah gives kindly, fruit will [grow] in our land once again. ¹³ Then from Him justice will flow, and in His footsteps we’ll follow.

Psalm 86

A prayer of David.

¹ Incline Your ear to hear me Jehovah, for I am poor and in need. ² Watch over my life because I am pure; O God save Your servant who trusts You!

³ Show mercy on me O Jehovah, for to You I will call all day long. ⁴ Bring great joy to the life of Your servant, for to You I have lifted my soul. ⁵ You’re my provider, O Jehovah… You’re merciful and patient to those calling on You. ⁶ Give ear to my prayer O Jehovah, and heed my voice as I beg. ⁷ In the day of distress I called out to You, and to me You’ve paid close attention.

⁸ O Jehovah; Among all the gods there’s no other like You… there are none that can do what You do. ⁹ You’ll make all the nations come bow before You; and Lord, they’ll glorify Your Name. ¹⁰ For You are great and You perform wonders… You are the only [true] God.

¹¹ Guide me O Jehovah in [all of] Your ways, and I will walk in Your truth. Let my heart rejoice O God, for Your Name I will fear [through the age]. ¹² O Jehovah my God, I will praise You; I’ll glorify Your Name with my heart through the age. ¹³ For Your mercy toward me has been great; You have rescued my life from the depths of the grave.

¹⁴ The lawless have risen against me, O God… they’ve ignored You and gathered to kill me. ¹⁵ But You are patient, Jehovah my God… You show mercy, and pity, and You’re true. ¹⁶ So, look upon me… show mercy! Give Your might to Your child; bring salvation to the son of your (female) servant! ¹⁷ Give me a sign that [You’re with] me… let those who hate me see it in shame. For You, O Jehovah, have helped me, and You have provided me comfort.

Psalm 87

To the sons of KorAh; a Psalm of an ode.

¹ Upon the Holy Mountain [His House] was founded. ² For Zion’s gates are more loved by Jehovah, than all the other tents of Jacob. ³ Glorious things have been said about you, O holy city of God. ⁴ To Babylon and RaHab I will speak, as well as to all those who know me. {Look!} I’ll speak to Philistines and peoples of Tyre, and to the Ethiopians I’ll say: ⁵ ‘A man will call Zion his mother, and a man who was born there founded her heights. ⁶ Jehovah described it in the writings of men, who told of the kings that were born there.’ ⁷ For all those with reasons, rejoice, all those who are dwelling within you!

Psalm 88

For the director; an ode. A Psalm by the sons of KorAh to be played on the harp. The contemplation about Heman the Israelite.

¹ O Jehovah my Savior and God, during the night I’m calling to You. ² My prayer is ascending to You, so give ear to the things that I beg.

³ My soul is filled with all kinds of trouble, and my life is approaching the grave. ⁴ I’ve been counted among those in the pit; a man without cure I’ve become. ⁵ I am free like one of the dead; like one who’s been killed and tossed in a tomb. I’m one of those that You don’t remember; from Your hand I’ve been taken and then thrown away.

⁶ They’ve put me into the lowest of pits, into a place that is dark… it’s like the shadow of death. ⁷ For Your anger has stayed upon me, and I’ve received all Your rage. ⁸ You’ve driven away all those who know me, and made me disgusting to them. From them I’ve been taken away, and no other place can I go.

⁹ My eyes are all sore from crying, as I call out to You through the day. To You I have opened my arms; toward You they are now opened wide.

¹⁰ Will You bring wonders to those who are dead? Will doctors then stand up and praise You? ¹¹ Will those in the tomb speak of Your mercy, and will the destroyed [speak of] Your truth? ¹² Can Your wonders be known in the darkness, and Your justice be known in a land that’s forgotten?

¹³ O Jehovah; I cried out to You in the morning, and You knew my prayer before it was said. ¹⁴ So, why O Jehovah, have You pushed me away? When will You turn Your face toward my life?

¹⁵ I’ve been poor and troubled since youth; I was humbled and left with nothing at all. ¹⁶ Upon me You’ve poured out Your rage, and sent frightful things to disturb me. ¹⁷ For they’ve surrounded me like water through the day; they’ve gathered around me in a circle. ¹⁸ You’ve driven away all my friends who were dear, and because of my misery they no longer know me.

Psalm 89

A Psalm of contemplation by Ethan the Israelite.

¹ Your mercies O Jehovah last through the ages, so I’ll sing from generation to generation. I’ll report Your truth with my mouth, ² for through the ages Your mercy will grow, and Your truth will rise to the heavens.

³ A sacred agreement I’ve made with My chosen; I’ve sworn an oath to My servant David, ⁴ that his seed I’ll prepare through [all] generations, and from generation to generation build on his throne. ⁵ So the heavens will praise your wonders, O Lord, and your truth to the holy assembly. ⁶ For who in the clouds is equal to [you], and which of God’s sons are quite like you?

⁷ The council of the holy glorifies God; He’s great and fearful to all who surround Him. ⁸ Who is like You, O God of armies? You are mighty, O Jehovah, and surrounded in truth.

⁹ Of the might of the seas You’re the Master, for You can calm waves when they rise. ¹⁰ You’ve humbled and killed those who were proud, and chased away enemies with the might of Your arm.

¹¹ Yours is the heavens and Yours is the earth; You’ve founded man’s home and all of its fullness. ¹² The north and the west are Your creations, so Tabor and Herman will shout to Your Name.

¹³ You can dominate all with Your arm, so make Your hand strong and raise it up high. ¹⁴ For justice and fairness come from Your throne; mercy and truth come from Your face.

¹⁵ Blest are the people who know cries of joy; O Jehovah, in the light of Your face they will go. ¹⁶ They’ll shout out in joy of Your Name every day, for in Your justice they’re uplifted. ¹⁷ You are the power in which they can boast, and by Your goodness we raise up our trumpets. ¹⁸ For, the One who helps us is Jehovah… the Holy One of Israel is our King.

¹⁹ In a vision You spoke to Your sons and You said, ‘I’ve given help through the great one I raised… he who I chose from among all My people. ²⁰ I found David My servant, and anointed his head with My holy oil. ²¹ So with My hand I will aid him, and I’ll make him strong with My arm. ²² His enemies will take nothing from him, and the lawless will do him no harm. ²³ His enemies I’ll cut down before him, and I’ll chase those who hate him away. ²⁴ For, My truth and My mercy are with him, and he’ll raise his horn high in My Name.

²⁵ ‘I’ll set his hand on the sea, and his right hand over the rivers. ²⁶ He’ll call upon Me and he’ll say, Father, You’re my God… You’re my Savior and shield. ²⁷ Then I’ll appoint him my firstborn, and put him above the kings of the earth. ²⁸ In mercy I’ll guard him through the age, and he can trust in the agreement I’ve made.

²⁹ ‘I’ll establish his seed throughout the ages, and his throne as the days of the sky. ³⁰ But if his sons should abandon My Law, and choose not to walk in My ways, ³¹ and if My rules they choose to profane, and My Commandments not choose to keep, ³² for their lawlessness I will bring them My rod, and whip them for all of their sins. ³³ But in My mercy I won’t wipe them away, nor will I do wrong to My truth. ³⁴ To My agreements I’ll always be true, and I won’t annul the things that I’ve said. ³⁵ For, once that I’ve sworn by an oath, could My holiness ever lie before David?

³⁶ ‘His seed will last through the ages, and his throne will stand as the sun… ³⁷ like the moon that’s been prepared through the ages; a trustworthy witness in the sky.’

³⁸ But now You’ve thrust him away in contempt; You’ve raised [your hand] against Your anointed. ³⁹ You have wiped away the agreement You made, and defiled his havens throughout the land. ⁴⁰ You’ve demolished all of his barriers; You’ve turned his forts into something to fear. ⁴¹ Those walking the roads have taken what’s his, and he’s become the scorn of his neighbors. ⁴² You’ve raised the hands of those who oppress him, and made all his enemies glad. ⁴³ You’ve turned Your help from his broadsword, and refused to assist him in battle.⁴⁴ You’ve desisted from making him clean, and torn his throne to the ground. ⁴⁵ You’ve shortened the days of his throne, and poured out shame onto him.

⁴⁶ How long, O Jehovah, will You turn away? Will Your rage keep burning like fire? ⁴⁷ Remember the facts of my situation, for in folly You created the sons of men. ⁴⁸ Which man that lives will never see death? Can he save his own life from the grave? ⁴⁹ Where is Your mercy, O ancient Jehovah? When You swore to David were You telling the truth? ⁵⁰ Remember the scorn that Your servant endured, which came to my bosom from many [great] nations, ⁵¹ when Your enemies [laughed] O Jehovah, at one who is Your anointed.

⁵² Praise Jehovah into the age… amen, amen, may it be.

Psalm 90

A prayer of Moses, the man of God.

¹ O Jehovah, You’ve been our refuge, from one generation to another. ² Before the mountains and the earth took their shape… before there was a dwelling of man, through the ages You have existed. ³ So don’t turn from men in our wretched state, for it was You who once said, ‘Return [to Me], O sons of men!’

⁴ Why, a thousand years in Your eyes O Jehovah, are like yesterday when they are gone, and as a watch in the night. ⁵ The years [of man] are looked on in scorn; they pass like sprouts in the morning. ⁶ For in the morning they blossom [and grow], and in the evening they dry up and fall.

⁷ We have failed in the face of Your rage, and we’ve been disturbed in Your anger. ⁸ For the Laws we have broken all stand before You, there in the brightness of Your face.

⁹ Why, all of our days have been failures, and we’ve even failed when it comes to Your rage. Our years are as brief as the time that it takes, for a spider to think [of catching its prey]. ¹⁰ Our days might last for seventy years, or if You command until eighty. But they’re mostly spent in misery and toil, until we mellow and accept [Your] correction.

¹¹ Who knows the power of Your rage? And because of the fear of Your anger, how can we number our days? ¹² So, expose Your right hand to me, and send my heart wisdom to accept Your correction.

¹³ How long, O Jehovah, until You return? Please send comfort to all of Your servants. ¹⁴ For in the morning, O Lord, we were filled with Your mercy, so we shouted in joy and were glad every day. ¹⁵ We were even thankful for the days we were humbled, after years of seeing the bad things.

¹⁶ So, look down upon Your servants (Your works), and send guidance to all our sons. ¹⁷ Send us the light of Jehovah our God, and bless the works of our hands… yes, bless the works of our hands!

Psalm 91

A Psalm of Praise by David.

¹ He who lives in the care of the Most High, and lodges in the God of heaven’s protection, ² will say to the Lord ‘You’re my refuge and shield; You’re my God and in You I will trust.’

³ He will rescue you from the snares of the hunters, and save you from all of your problems. ⁴ He will shield you with the shadow of His back, and under His wings you will hide, as in His truth He surrounds you. ⁵ You won’t be afraid of things in the night; of arrows that fly in the daytime; ⁶ of accidents or things that travel in darkness; nor of the demon at noon. ⁷ A thousand will fall at your side, and ten thousand held back by your right hand. ⁸ You’ll see it all with your eyes and consider, for the fate of sinners you’ll see. ⁹ Yes You, O Jehovah, are the One that I trust.

If you make the Most High your refuge, ¹⁰ nothing bad will ever approach you, and the whip will never enter your tent. ¹¹ For to His messengers He’ll give orders, to keep watch over all of your ways. ¹² With their hands they will lift you, so a rock won’t stumble your foot. ¹³ You can step on an asp or a cobra, and trample upon fierce beasts or lions.

¹⁴ [For God says]: ‘Because he is trusting in Me I will save him… I’ll be his shelter for he knows My Name. ¹⁵ He’ll cry out to Me and I’ll listen… during hard times I will be there. I will save and glorify him… ¹⁶ I’ll extend the days of his life, and show him how I can deliver.’

Psalm 92

A Psalm for the Sabbath Day.

¹ It’s good to praise You Jehovah the Most High, and to strum to Your Name; ² to [sing] of Your mercies each morning, and about Your truth every night, ³ as [I strum] on my lute of ten-strings… as [I play] a song on the harp.

⁴ O Jehovah; You make me glad with the things that You do, so I’ll shout in praise of the works of Your hands. ⁵ How great are Your deeds O Jehovah, and how deep are Your thoughts.

⁶ A foolish man will not know, and such things the senseless won’t comprehend: ⁷ Though the sinners keep rising like grass, and the lawless keep on increasing, they’ll be destroyed for ages of ages.

⁸ But You’re the Most High of ages, Jehovah! ⁹ Behold Your enemies O Lord! Look they will perish… they’ll be dispersed; all those who work at doing bad things. ¹⁰ So, as a rhinoceros I’ll raise my horn high, and in my old age bring plenty of oil.

¹¹ Upon my enemies my eyes have gazed (on those who are rising against me), and my ears still hear of the wicked. ¹² But the righteous will bloom like a palm tree; they’ll grow like cedars in Lebanon. ¹³ Yes, those who are planted in the House of Jehovah… those in the courtyard of our God will all blossom. ¹⁴ They will grow old and have plenty, and take much pleasure in proclaiming, ¹⁵ that Jehovah our God is righteous, and there is no injustice within Him.

Psalm 93

For the Sabbath Day, after being resettled in the land. A song of praise by David.

¹ Jehovah reigns and brings beauty; He has wrapped Himself in great power. Man’s home He’s made steady and firm, ² and your throne He’s prepared through the ages.

³ O Jehovah; You [created] the rivers; yes they [were created] by You. ⁴ But the sounds of many voices will take them away; yes the sounds of waters will wear them away.

How wonderful are the tides of the sea, and the high places of Jehovah. ⁵ The things You tell are very trustworthy, and O Lord; Your [House] will last through the years.

Psalm 94

A Psalm of David for the fourth of the Sabbath.

¹ Jehovah is a God who seeks vengeance, and this God who seeks vengeance has publicly spoken. ² Arise, O He who is judging the earth! Pay what is due to the proud!

³ O Jehovah; How much longer will sinners remain… how long will sinners be allowed to keep boasting? ⁴ For when they speak they do so unjustly, and all who break Laws keep on bragging.

⁵ They’ve mistreated Your people O Jehovah; to Your inheritance they have done evil. ⁶ The widows and orphans they’ve killed, and they’ve murdered foreign sojourners. ⁷ They’ve said ‘Jehovah can’t see; so the God of Jacob will never know.’

⁸ Look, you fools among [men]… you who’ve been foolish should stop and think! ⁹ Can’t the ear of the Planter also hear… can’t He who shaped the eye also think? ¹⁰ Won’t He who corrects all the nations, and who teaches knowledge to man, also provide him the discipline he needs?

¹¹ Jehovah knows the ways that men think, and that the things we think of are foolish. ¹² But blest is the man who Jehovah corrects, and is taught the ways of God’s Law.

¹³ O calm Him down from His days, when He dug a pit for the sinners. ¹⁴ For, Jehovah won’t push His people aside, and His inheritance He’ll never abandon.

¹⁵ How long until justice returns with its judgments… until those straight of heart receive [what they’re due]? ¹⁶ Who will oppose the wicked for me… who will stand with me opposing the lawless? ¹⁷ If it weren’t for the help that Jehovah has given, my life would soon travel through the place of the dead.

¹⁸ Did I ask for my feet to tremble? O Jehovah, show mercy and help me! ¹⁹ Despite all the grief in my heart, You’ve brought comfort and shown love for my soul.

²⁰ Will the throne of the lawless stay with You… those who turn order into trouble? ²¹ Will they keep hunting for the lives of the righteous, and the blood of the innocents keep on condemning?

²² But Jehovah has become a refuge to me… my God is my helper and hope. ²³ He’ll give the lawless the things they deserve, and remove them from His view for their badness.

Psalm 95

A song of praise by David..

¹ Come, shout praises to Jehovah… to God our Savior we should shout! ² We should stand in His presence with praises, and to Him sing out our psalms. ³ For God Jehovah is great… the greatest King of the earth, and His people He will never reject.

⁴ Why, the ends of the earth are in His hands, as are the peaks of the mountains. ⁵ His are the seas for He made them, and His hands shaped the dry land. ⁶ So come and let’s bow to our faces before Him… because He’s our Creator let’s weep before Him. ⁷ He is our God, and we’re the sheep of His pasture… the sheep that He keeps in His hand.

⁸ If today you should hear His voice, do not harden your hearts… do not be bitter as they were in that day, when they put Him to the test in the desert. ⁹ ‘For there I was tested and tried by your fathers, though they had seen all the things that I did. ¹⁰ Thus I came to loathe that generation, so they wandered [in the desert] forty years. In their hearts they knew not My ways, ¹¹ so I swore this oath in My rage: They will not enter My rest.’

Psalm 96

¹ Sing a new song to Jehovah! Sing to the Lord of the earth! ² Sing to Jehovah… shout in praise of His Name! Proclaim the good news each day… the news of how He brings salvation. ³ To all the nations tell of His glory, and speak of His wonders to the peoples.

⁴ Jehovah is great and worthy of praise; He’s more to be feared than all other gods. ⁵ For all the gods of the nations are demons, but it’s Jehovah who created the heavens. ⁶ Before Him are beauty and praises; holy and majestic is His Sacred Place.

⁷ O families of nations carry [gifts] to Jehovah; bring to the Lord both glory and honor. ⁸ Bring glory to Jehovah for the sake of His Name; bring sacrifices to His holy courtyards, and before Jehovah bow low there.

⁹ May His face shake the whole earth! ¹⁰ Tell all the nations, ‘Jehovah is King! It is He who established man’s home, so it will never be shaken. For He will judge the peoples in justice!’

¹¹ Be glad you heavens, and earth shout for joy! May the seas and all that’s in them be shaken. ¹² Rejoice you fields and everything in them, and the trees in the forests should cry out in joy, ¹³ before the face of the Lord. For He’s coming to judge the whole earth; He’ll judge man’s habitation in justice… with His truth He will judge many peoples.

Psalm 97

A Psalm of David for when his [kingdom] was established.

¹ Jehovah reigns… shout in joy, O you earth! Let all of the islands be glad!

² He’s surrounded by darkness and clouds; justice and judgment are the success of His throne. ³ Flames shoot out from before Him, to burn His enemies in the fire.

⁴ The lightning that He sent was seen by [all men]. They saw it and it shook the whole earth. ⁵ Mountains melt like wax at His face, and from His face the earth [melts away].

⁶ The heavens speak of His justice, and His glory is seen by all peoples. ⁷ Those bowing to carvings were shamed, as are all those who brag of their idols. O you His messengers; bow low before Him!

⁸ Zion is happy and daughters of Judea shout in joy, because of Your judgments O Jehovah. ⁹ For, You’re the Most High of the whole earth; You’re exalted above all other gods.

¹⁰ O you who are loving Jehovah; [learn] to hate what is bad! For, Jehovah guards the lives of the holy… from the hands of sinners He protects them.

¹¹ Light has risen upon those who are righteous, and those with straight hearts are happy. ¹² The righteous have reason for joy in Jehovah… to remember His holiness and speak in His praise.

Psalm 98

A Psalm of David.

¹ Sing a new song to Jehovah, of the wonderful things He has done, for He brings salvation with His holy right arm.

² Jehovah’s made known His salvation to nations, and to them He has shown His justice. ³ He’s remembered His mercy to Jacob, and His truth to the house of Israel. So, the ends of the earth have seen how He saves, and how our God can deliver!

⁴ Shout to God all the earth! Sing, cry out, and strum! ⁵ Play to Jehovah with harps! Along with the harp sing psalms! ⁶ With brass trumpets and the blowing of horns, shout before Jehovah our King!

⁷ May the seas and all that’s in them be shaken, as well as man’s habitation, and all the [people] who live there. ⁸ Rivers will be clapping their hands, and the mountains will cry out in joy at His face. ⁹ For He’s coming to judge the whole earth… man’s home and its peoples in fairness and justice.

Psalm 99

A Psalm of David.

¹ Jehovah now reigns, so may all the peoples be angry. For He who is sitting on cherubs, will soon come to shake the whole earth.

² Jehovah on Zion is great, and He is above all the peoples. ³ So, may they all praise His Name, for He is fearful and holy.

⁴ He loves a king who has honor, and you have prepared righteous judgments… yes you have brought justice to Jacob.

⁵ May our God Jehovah be exalted… because He is holy, all should bow at His feet.

⁶ Among His Priests number Moses and Aaron, and Samuel is one who called on His Name. They called on Jehovah and He listened to them, ⁷ then He spoke to them from a column of clouds. For, they had guarded His Proofs, and they obeyed the orders He gave.

⁸ O Jehovah our God… You heard them! O God You became their provider, and You punished them for the bad things they did. ⁹ So our God Jehovah should be raised high, and all should bow at His holy Mountain, for Jehovah our God is most holy.

Psalm 100

A Psalm of praise by David.

¹ Shout to God all the earth! ² Serve Jehovah in joy! Go into His presence with happy shouts! ³ Know that Jehovah’s our God!

We didn’t do it… He made us! But we are His people… the sheep of His pasture. ⁴ So, go to His gates with praises, and enter His courtyard with hymns. Go praising His Name and confessing, ⁵ for He provides mercy throughout the age, and His truth is from generation to generation.

Psalm 101

A Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah; I will sing of Your justice and mercy… ² of Your perfect ways I will strum.

O how long until You return, for in my home there’s an innocent heart. ³ I’ve not set my eyes on things that are bad, and illegal things I have hated. ⁴ Toward things that are crooked my heart has not led me, and men that are bad I reject and don’t know. ⁵ Those who privately speak ill of their friends, I have driven away. I won’t eat with those of proud eyes, or with those whose hearts can’t be sated. ⁶ For, my eyes are on those who are trustworthy, and they are the ones with whom I will sit. They are the [men] who walk in pure ways, and they are the ones who share in my rule. ⁷ For, no one with pride can live in my house, and before my eyes the unjust can’t stand.

⁸ In the morning I killed all the sinners in the land, and I destroyed all the lawless from Jehovah’s city.

Psalm 102

A prayer for the poor when they are discouraged and come before Jehovah to pour out their requests.

¹ Please hear my prayer, O Jehovah, and to my cries as I come before You. ² Don’t turn Your face in the day that I need You. Incline Your ear closer to me, and whenever I call [please] quickly respond. ³ For, my days have passed by like smoke, and my bones are parched like dry sticks. ⁴ I’ve been cut down like grass that is dry, and my heart forgets to eat bread. ⁵ My bones stick out from my flesh, and they’re [tired] of the sounds of my groaning. ⁶ Like a pelican I [travel] alone; I’ve become like the owl in its range. ⁷ Sleepless [I lie throughout the whole night], and I live like a sparrow alone on the roof. ⁸ My enemies berate me all day long, and those who once praised me swear oaths against me. ⁹ Ashes I’ve eaten like bread, and my drink has become my own tears.

¹⁰ Because of the anger and rage of Your face, You lifted me up then broke me down. ¹¹ So, my days have declined like the shadows, and I have dried up like grass. ¹² But you O Lord abide through the ages; from generation to generation You’re remembered. ¹³ So, please stand up and feel pity for Zion, since the time for its pity is due. ¹⁴ To Your servants her stones are so dear, and over her dust they feel sorrow.

¹⁵ Nations will fear Your Name, O Jehovah, and the kings of the earth [will speak] of Your glory. ¹⁶ For the Lord will build up Zion once more, where he will appear in his glory. ¹⁷ He looks down [and hears] the prayers of the humble, and has no contempt for the things that they ask. ¹⁸ Let this be written for each generation, so those born anew will all praise the Lord.

(NOTE: The following verses are applied to Jesus at Hebrews 1:10-12).

¹⁹ The Lord looks down from his dwelling in the heights; he looks at the earth from the heavens, ²⁰ to hear the moans of those who are shackled, and untie the sons of the condemned.

²¹ In Zion announce the Name of Jehovah, and you in Jerusalem shout in His praise! ²² For all the gatherings of people (as well as their kings), will all then be serving the Lord. ²³ In his strong way he’ll give me an answer, and tell me how few of my days yet remain. ²⁴ Don’t lead me away after half of my days, for your years are from generation to generation.

²⁵ In the beginning you founded the earth, and the heavens are the works of your hands. ²⁶ Yet, they will pass by, while you will continue to live. Like clothes (an old robe) they’ll grow old. Then you’ll wrap them up and they will be changed. ²⁷ But you are always the same, and your years will never [come to an] end. ²⁸ But the sons of your servants will live in [your] camp, and through the ages their seed will remain.

Psalm 103

A Psalm of David.

¹ Praise Jehovah my soul; with all that is in me, praise His Most Holy Name! ² Praise the Lord O my soul, and forget not all of His blessings. ³ For He covers the sins of all your law breaking, and He’s the One who cures all your ills. ⁴ He ransoms you from your life’s corruption, and then He crowns you with mercy. ⁵ He fills your desires with good things, and renews your youth like that of an eagle.

⁶ Jehovah’s the one who freely provides… He brings justice to those who’ve been wronged. ⁷ He revealed His ways to Moses… to the sons of Israel He showed what He wanted.

⁸ Jehovah feels pity and He shows mercy; He is forgiving and filled with compassion. ⁹ Until the end you won’t make Him angry, nor through the ages will He cherish wrath. ¹⁰ For our lawlessness deeds He hasn’t repaid us, nor for our sins has He held an accounting. ¹¹ As high as the heavens are over the earth, Jehovah’s shown mercy to all those who fear Him. ¹² As far as the distance from east to the west, He has set us apart from the laws that we break. ¹³ Just as a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah feels mercy toward all those who fear Him. ¹⁴ For, He remembers how we were formed, and He doesn’t forget that we are just dust. ¹⁵ Because; the days of a man are like grass, for he blossoms like a flower in a field, ¹⁶ then the wind blows by and he passes away, and his place is remembered no more. ¹⁷ Upon those fearing Him He shows ages of mercy, and His justice is upon the sons of their sons… ¹⁸ on all those who guard His Sacred Agreement, and on those who remember and obey His Commandments.

¹⁹ Jehovah has prepared His throne in the heavens, and in His Kingdom He’s Master of all. ²⁰ So, praise Jehovah all You His angels, for He shows His might and His strength, to all those hearing His words. ²¹ Yes, praise Jehovah all His armies… all His servant who are doing His will. ²² Praise Jehovah all you of His works… every place within in His dominion. Praise Jehovah O my soul!

Psalm 104

A Psalm of David

¹ O my soul, praise Jehovah; O Jehovah my God! You’ve made Yourself great and praiseworthy, and clothed Yourself in great beauty. ² You wrap Yourself up in light like a robe, and stretch out the heavens like leather. ³ Its roof and upper rooms You filled up with water; You make the clouds Your chariots, then You ride on the wings of the winds.

⁴ He makes His messengers like the wind, and His servants like the flames of a fire. ⁵ The foundation of the earth He laid and made stable, so through ages of ages they will not fail.

⁶ The depths [of the seas] are His wrap, and water [He piles up as snow] on the mountains. ⁷ But at Your reproach they will flee, and they’ll quake at the sound of Your thunder. ⁸ They’ll pour down the mountains and descend to the plains, to the place You established for them. ⁹ For, You’ve placed limits that they will not pass, so they may not cover the land. ¹⁰ You send them as springs to the valleys, and from the midst of the mountains pour rivers, ¹¹ to water wild animals living in fields… wild donkeys that use it to satisfy thirst.

¹² Winged creatures in the sky nest between rocks, where they sound out their calls. ¹³ And from upper rooms He sends water to the mountains, then the earth is filled with the fruit of His works. ¹⁴ He makes the grass grow for cattle to eat, as well as young sprouts to bring bread from the ground. ¹⁵ [He gives] men wine to make their hearts merry; with olive oil He blesses their faces; and to support their hearts He gives men bread.

¹⁶ He has filled the plains with [many trees], and the cedars of Lebanon were His planting. ¹⁷ It’s there that sparrows build their nests, until herons take over their dwellings. ¹⁸ [He created] high mountains for wild goats to roam; He made rocks as the refuge for badgers. ¹⁹ He made the moon to show seasons, as well as the sun which knows when to set.

²⁰ You made the darkness of night, when wild animals in the woods roam about; ²¹ it’s when lion cubs roar and attack, seeking by God to find themselves food. ²² But when the sun rises they all get together, and return to their dens to lie down. ²³ That’s when man arises to work, and continues his toil until dusk.

²⁴ How great are Your works O Jehovah; in Your great wisdom You’ve made it all… You’ve filled the whole earth with creations. ²⁵ You made vast lands and great seas, where slithering animals may live. There’s no way to count Your creatures great and small… ²⁶ for boats pass over even [other] wild beasts, which You created in fun. ²⁷ Yet they all expect their nourishment from You, and to receive it at just the right time. ²⁸ So, when You provide they receive it… You open Your hand and they’re filled with what’s good. ²⁹ But if You turn Your face they’ll be upset, and if you take their breath they’ll expire, then back to the dust they will go. ³⁰ But; if You send out Your Breath they’re created, and You renew the face of the land.

³¹ May the glory of Jehovah last through the ages. May He be glad for the things He has made. ³² He looks down on the earth, making it tremble, and touches the mountains, making them smoke. ³³ So, with my whole life I’ll sing to Jehovah; as long as I live I’ll strum to my God. ³⁴ May He find my verses delightful; may they make Jehovah’s heart glad. ³⁵ May all the sinners expire from the earth, and all the lawless cease to exist.

Praise Jehovah O my soul!

Psalm 105

¹ Praise Jehovah… call on His Name! Tell all the nations of the things He has done! ² Sing to Him… yes strum! Describe all of His wonders! ³ Applaud to His most holy Name!

May the hearts of those seeking Jehovah be glad. ⁴ Seek Jehovah and grow strong! Always search for His face. ⁵ Don’t forget the wonders He’s done… the miracles and judgments that come from His mouth.

⁶ You seed of Abraham… His servants; you sons of Jacob… His chosen; ⁷ He is Jehovah our God; His decisions are [seen] throughout the whole earth.

⁸ He’s remembered His Agreement through ages… His promise through a thousand generations… ⁹ the Agreement He made with Abraham, and the oath that He spoke of to Isaac. ¹⁰ Then it was with Jacob that He set the rules, for Israel [to follow] through the ages, ¹¹ saying; ‘To you I give CanaAn’s land… your inheritance is a measured piece of ground.’

¹² [Back then] their numbers were few; not many were visiting [in the land]. ¹³ And they traveled from nation to nation… from one kingdom on to another. ¹⁴ But He didn’t allow any to harm them, for He sent warnings to their kings that said: ¹⁵ ‘Do not touch My anointed, and to My Prophets do no wrong.’

¹⁶ After that, He brought famine to their land, so they could not trust in their bread. ¹⁷ Then to a man named Joseph He sent them… a slave who’d been purchased [with money]. ¹⁸ For though he’d been humbled with shackles on his feet, and his soul had been pierced through with iron, ¹⁹ when the word was finally spoken, the omens of Jehovah made him pure. ²⁰ Then the king sent word to untie him… a ruler of the peoples set him free. ²¹ And master of his house he then did appoint him; the ruler of all his possessions. ²² So he appointed rulers, as he saw fit, and he sought elders to make [him] much wiser.

²³ Then Israel traveled down to Egypt… the land of Ham was visited by Jacob. ²⁴ His people then grew great in numbers, and mightier than their enemies He made them. ²⁵ [God] changed [Egyptian] hearts so they’d hate His people, and to deal treacherously with His servants. ²⁶ Then He sent Moses and his servant Aaron… those He had chosen for Himself… ²⁷ and He sent the [Egyptians] His signs… to the land of Ham He sent miracles.

²⁸ He sent darkness and everything was dark, but they still rebelled against His words. ²⁹ He changed their waters into blood, and killed off all of their fish. ³⁰ Then frogs crawled onto the land, and into the closets of kings. ³¹ He spoke and stable flies came, followed by fleas throughout all their borders. ³² Their rain He turned into hail and fire, which burned throughout the whole land. ³³ Then He struck their grapevines and figs… He broke every tree in their borders. ³⁴ He spoke, bringing grasshoppers and locust… so many they couldn’t be counted. ³⁵ They devoured all of the grass, and all the fruit in their land. ³⁶ Then He struck all the firstborn throughout the land; the first-fruit of all they’d accomplished. ³⁷ With silver and gold He led [Israel] away, and none in their tribes were then weak.

³⁸ Egypt was happy to just see them leave, for they were overcome with great fear. ³⁹ Then He opened and spread out a cloud to protect them, and He sent fire as their light through the night. ⁴⁰ They asked Him for [meat] and then came the quail, and with the bread of heaven they were filled. ⁴¹ He tore open the rock and water flowed from it, and through the desert ran rivers. ⁴² For, His Holy Word He had remembered… what He had spoken to Abraham His servant. ⁴³ So He led out His people shouting in joy… those who He chose left there happy. ⁴⁴ Then He gave them the lands of great nations, and they inherited the things they had worked for.

⁴⁵ So, they should now guard His decisions, and always search for His Laws.

Psalm 106

¹ Praise Jehovah for He’s our provider, and His mercies last through the ages. ² Who will tell of His mighty deeds, and speak out loud in His praise?

³ Blest are those who are honest, and doing what’s righteous in each season. ⁴ O Jehovah, please don’t forget us, or the kindness You’ve shown to Your people. Visit us with Your salvation!

⁵ Your elected should find joy in seeing what is good, and Your nation should applaud the inheritance You’ve given. ⁶ But we and our fathers have sinned… we’ve broken [Your] Laws and done wrong! ⁷ Why, even our fathers in Egypt, did not understand all Your wonders, nor did they remember Your great mercy; why they even rebelled while descending into the Red Sea. ⁸ Yet, He saved them because of His Name, and to make known His great power. ⁹ So He scolded the Red Sea and it dried up… He guided them through the abyss in the desert. ¹⁰ He saved them from those by whom they were hated… He ransomed them from their enemy’s hands. ¹¹ Then those who oppressed them He covered with water, and not a single one then survived.

¹² When they trusted His Word they were blest, ¹³ but they quickly forgot what He’d done, and they failed to await His instructions. ¹⁴ They wanted the things they desired, so they tested God in the desert. ¹⁵ So He gave them the things that they asked for, and sent them enough to fill up their souls. ¹⁶ But they provoked Moses to rage in the camp, as well as Aaron the Holy One of [God]. ¹⁷ So He opened the earth and it swallowed down Dathan, and covered the gathering of AbiRon. ¹⁸ A fire then blazed in the midst of their group, and flames consumed all the sinners.

¹⁹ They made a calf there in that dry place, and they bowed down to that carving. ²⁰ They changed [His] Glory to a calf that eats grass, ²¹ forgetting their God (He who’d saved them), the One who did great things in Egypt, ²² with the wonders [He’d performed] in the land of Ham, and the awesome things at the Red Sea. ²³ So He spoke and said He’d destroy them; but His chosen one Moses stood among them… those whom He would destroy. [Then Moses] stood before Him to turn back His rage, so He would not wipe them away.

²⁴ Then they looked with contempt on the desirable land, and didn’t trust in His word. ²⁵ So in their tents they stood and grumbled, refusing to hear the voice of Jehovah. ²⁶ Thus He lifted His hand up against them, to throw them down in the desert… ²⁷ to send their seed off into the nations, and scatter them to many places.

²⁸ Then they [bowed to] Baal of Peor, and ate the sacrifices of the dead. ²⁹ They did all they could to provoke Him, and to bring more blows on themselves. ³⁰ Yet, Phinehas stood and offered atonement, and abated [God’s plans of] devastation. ³¹ As the result he was thought of as righteous, for generations and generations through the ages.

³² At the Water of Dispute they again made Him angry, and so evil was inflicted upon Moses. ³³ It was there that they made his spirit bitter, and then he drew open his lips.

³⁴ Thereafter they didn’t destroy all the nations, as Jehovah had instructed… ³⁵ they mixed with the nations and learned of their ways. ³⁶ The idols [of nations] they served to offend Him, ³⁷ and they sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons… ³⁸ innocent blood they poured out… the blood of their own sons and daughters. They sacrificed to the carvings of CanaAn, and polluted the land with murder and blood. ³⁹ [So the land] was defiled by the things they had done, and they became practicing whores. ⁴⁰ Thus Jehovah was enraged with His people… His inheritance He started to abhor.

⁴¹ Then He gave them into their enemy’s hands… those who hated and ruled them. ⁴² He allowed their enemies to oppress them, and humbled them under their hands. ⁴³ And though time and again He came to save them, they kept on making Him angry. All they did was talk back, so they were humbled for the bad things they did.

⁴⁴ Yet when He saw how they were afflicted, He listened to the things that they begged for. ⁴⁵ He remembered His Sacred Agreement, and in mercy turned to them once again… ⁴⁶ before all those who took them as captives, He showed them His great compassion.

⁴⁷ Deliver us O Jehovah our God, and assemble us back from the nations, so we can again bless Your Holy Name, and boast aloud in Your praises! ⁴⁸ Through ages of ages praise Jehovah, and may all peoples say ‘May it be.’

Psalm 107

Praise Jah!

¹ Praise Jehovah because He provides; His mercy endures through the ages. ² About Jehovah this was said, by those who He saved from their enemy’s hands. ³ From many places He gathered them back; from the north, south, east, and the sea. ⁴ They wandered the desert without water, and no town could they find as their home. ⁵ Their lives were failing from hunger and thirst, ⁶ so in great distress they called to Jehovah, and He rescued them from their condition. ⁷ He guided them in a straight path, to a city they could call their own home.

⁸ So, let them praise Jehovah for His mercy, and the wonders He brings to sons of men. ⁹ For He fills up lives that are empty, and those who are hungry He fills up with good things… ¹⁰ even those who sit in the shadow of death, and the poor who are shacked in irons.

¹¹ Then they rebelled against the word of our God, and counsel from above they rejected. ¹² So, they were humbled with trouble in their hearts; they were weakened and no one came to their aid. ¹³ Then they called out to Jehovah in their affliction, and He saved them from their distress. ¹⁴ He led them from the shadow of death, and He ripped open their bonds.

¹⁵ So, let them praise Jehovah for His mercy, and the wonders He brings upon sons of men. ¹⁶ He broke down the gates made of brass, and smashed the bars of iron into pieces. ¹⁷ From their lawless ways He removed them… because they were lawlessness they were humbled. ¹⁸ They could not eat their own food, and they were approaching death’s gates. ¹⁹ So in their affliction they cried to Jehovah, and He delivered them from their distress… ²⁰ He sent forth His word and it healed them, and saved them from their corruption. ²¹ May they praise Jehovah for His mercy, and the wonders He brings to sons of men. ²² They should offer to Him a sacrifice of praise, and joyfully shout of the things He has done!

²³ The men who go to the sea in their boats, and work throughout many waters, ²⁴ have beheld the works of Jehovah, and His wonders [in the waters of the] deep. ²⁵ He spoke and established the winds and the gales, which raise [the water] creating high waves. ²⁶ They reach to the sky and go down to the abyss, and then their evil lives melt away. ²⁷ So [the sailors] are disturbed and they’re shaken; and their wisdom’s swallowed down as though they were drunk. ²⁸ Then in their affliction they cry to Jehovah, and He leads them from their distress… ²⁹ He gives orders to the gale, and it becomes a breeze to quiet the waves. ³⁰ Then when it’s stilled they are happy, and He guides them toward the harbor they seek.

³¹ So, let them praise Jehovah for His mercy, and the wonders He brings to sons of men. ³² Let them praise Him to gatherings of people, and before the seats of the elders. ³³ For, into the desert He brought a river, and springs of water to a thirsty land. ³⁴ Yet, the ground still brings forth bad fruit, because of the evils of those living there.

³⁵ He turned a desert into lakes filled with water, and into dry ground [He put] springs. ³⁶ There He settled those who were hungry, and gathered them to cities where they could live. ³⁷ Then they planted vineyards and sowed fields, which brought the produce of fruit. ³⁸ He blest them and they became many, and not few were their cattle. ³⁹ But they were decreased and mistreated… afflicted with evil and grief. ⁴⁰ Contempt was poured on their rulers, and He caused them to wander in places without roads.

⁴¹ But He’ll bring the needy from their poor condition, and treat their families like flocks. ⁴² Then all the upright will be joyful, but the mouths of the lawless will be blocked.

⁴³ Who is wise and will do all these things, in order to see the mercies of Jehovah?

Psalm 108

A Psalm of David.

¹ My heart is prepared O my God… in my glory I’m prepared to sing and play! ² Awaken my glory, my lute, and my harp, and I’ll be awakened at dawn.

³ O Jehovah; I’ll praise You among all the peoples; to You I’ll strum among all the nations. ⁴ For Your mercy is greater and higher than the sky, and Your truth reaches into the clouds.

⁵ May Your glory become higher than the sky, O God, and far above the whole earth, ⁶ so that Your loved ones are saved. O save with Your right hand… please hear me!

⁷ In Holiness our God has spoken and said, ‘[My Name] will now be raised high. I will subdivide Shechem, and lay out tents in its valley. ⁸ Gilead is Mine, ManasSeh is Mine, and EphraIm is the pillow for My head. ⁹ Judah’s My king, and Moab is the kettle of My hope for Idumea. I will [extend] my shoe [and step down], and then to Me Philistines will submit. ¹⁰ Fortified cities… who can take from Me? Who can serve as My guide to Idumea?’

¹¹ Isn’t it You, O God, who pushed us away? And will not You O God, attack with Your armies? ¹² Send us some help in our time of affliction, for the salvation of man has no value. ¹³ Only through God will we have any power; only He can treat our enemies with contempt.

Psalm 109

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ O God of my praise don’t be silent, ² for sinners and liars have spoken against me. They speak against me with tongues of deceit, ³ and with hateful words they surround me. ⁴ They war against me for no reason. Instead of love they send slander; yet to You I have prayed. ⁵ Instead of good they’ve brought bad, and shown hatred [in return for] my love.

⁶ Set him among all the sinners; put the Slanderer at his right hand. ⁷ When being judged may he leave as condemned, and may his prayers all be viewed as sins. ⁸ May his days become few, and may others take his position. ⁹ May his sons become orphans, and may his wife be a widow. ¹⁰ Let his sons wander and beg. May they be driven away from their homes. ¹¹ May bankers search for all his possessions, and strangers plunder the things he has worked for. ¹² Let there be no one to shield him; may no one pity his orphans. ¹³ May his children be completely wiped out, and his name be erased in one generation. ¹⁴ May Jehovah remember the sins of his father; may the sins of his mother not be erased. ¹⁵ May they always stand before You Jehovah, and may his memory be gone from the land.

¹⁶ Because he forgot to show mercy; he pursued a man needy and poor, and sought to kill one who was broken in heart. ¹⁷ Since he loved curses, let him receive them; he offered no blessings, so may they stay far. ¹⁸ He put on the curse like a robe; it poured like water inside him, and became like oil in his bones. ¹⁹ So let him wear it as a robe, and like a belt that he wraps on his waist.

²⁰ It’s Jehovah’s reward for those who have slandered, and those who speak evil of my soul. ²¹ O Lord Jehovah, please help me, for the sake of Your Name and Your mercy. ²² Rescue me for I’m poor and in need, and my heart is deeply disturbed. ²³ I’ve been removed like a shadow that passes; I’ve been [eaten] away as by locusts. ²⁴ My knees are weakened from fasting, and for lack of oil my flesh has been changed. ²⁵ To them I’m someone to laugh at; they see me and just shake their heads.

²⁶ Help me Jehovah my God; do so in Your great mercy! ²⁷ Then let them know that it’s Your hand… that it’s You O Jehovah who did it! ²⁸ On themselves may they bring their own curses, as You [my God] bring [me] blessings. May those who rise against me be shamed, but may Your servant be glad. ²⁹ On those who are slandering bring shame, and wrap their shame around them like clothes. ³⁰ Then I will offer to You praise, O Jehovah… with my mouth I’ll praise You to many. ³¹ [God] stands at the right of this one who’s in need, to save me from those who are chasing my soul.

Psalm 110

A Psalm of David.

¹ Jehovah said to my Lord: ‘Sit down [here] at my right hand, ‘til I make your enemies a stool for your feet. ² A strong scepter Jehovah will send you from Zion, and in the midst of your enemies you will rule. ³ In that mighty day you’ll be the sovereign, and in the brightness of your holy ones you’ll shine. For, since the time that you came from the womb, I made you to be the morning star.’

⁴ An oath was sworn by Jehovah, for which He will never repent. He said: ‘You are a Priest through the ages, as in the order of MelchiZedek, ⁵ and you’ll [sit at] at Jehovah’s right hand.’

In the day of his rage he will shatter the kings; ⁶ among the nations he’ll be the judge, then he’ll fill their [lands] up with corpses, and many heads on the earth he will break. ⁷ From the [Kidron] Wadi he will drink, and he will hold his head high.

Psalm 111

Praise Jah!

¹ I’ll praise You Jehovah with my whole heart, for the instructions [that I’ll share with] the righteous.

² The deeds of Jehovah are great, and He searches for those He desires. ³ Majestic and worthy are the things that He does, and His justice endures for ages of ages.

⁴ He’s made His wonders to not be forgotten, and Jehovah shows empathy and pity. ⁵ He nourishes all those who fear Him, and He remembers His Sacred Agreement through the ages.

⁶ His powerful deeds He’s announced to His people, for He’s given them the nations as their inheritance. ⁷ The works of His hands are just and true, and His Commandments can always be trusted.

⁸ Truth and uprightness are fixed, so they’ll last through ages of ages. ⁹ He’ll pay the ransom for His people, and through the ages He’ll give instructions, about His Holy Sacred Agreement, and of how His Name should be feared.

¹⁰ The beginning of wisdom is the fear of Jehovah. And goodness and understanding come to those who observe this. His praises abide through the age, and on through the ages of ages.

Psalm 112

Praise Jah.

¹ Blest is the man who fears Jehovah, and greatly desires His Commandments. ² For his seed will grow strong on the earth, and generations of the just will be blest. ³ Glory and wealth will be in his house, and through ages of ages his righteous ways will endure.

⁴ From darkness he brings light to the upright; ⁵ and on the righteous he shows pity and mercy.

⁵ A kind man feels compassion and lends, and he manages his matters in justice. ⁶ So, through the age he will not be shaken, for the righteous are remembered through the ages.

⁷ Then; when he hears bad news he won’t be afraid, for he’s readied his heart to trust in Jehovah. ⁸ His heart is sure so he won’t be afraid, even in the face of his enemies.

⁹ He has contributed to those who’re in need, and through ages he has been just, so his horn will be raised high in glory. ¹⁰ Then the sinner will see this and he’ll become angry; he’ll grind his teeth then just melt away… all that the sinner desired will be gone.

Psalm 113

Praise Jah.

¹ Praise Jehovah, O you His servants; praise the Name of the Lord. ² May the Name Jehovah be praised, right now and on through the age.

³ From the dawning of the sun until its descent, it praises the Name of the Lord. ⁴ For Jehovah is high above all the nations, since His glory exists in the heavens.

⁵ Who is like Jehovah our God, He who lives in high places? ⁶ He pays attention to those who are humble… those in heaven and those on the earth.

⁷ He raises the poor from the ground, and the needy from out of manure, ⁸ to set them down with the rulers… the rulers who are over His people.

⁹ He provides a home for barren women, as well as houses for mothers with many.

Psalm 114

Praise Jah.

¹ After the exodus of Israel from Egypt (when the house of Jacob left barbaric people), ² Judea became His Holy Place, and Israel is His power to accomplish.

³ The sea beheld and moved away; the Jordan turned around and flowed backward; ⁴ the mountains started leaping like rams, and the hills acted like little lambs. What is it with you O sea; why did you turn and run? And you O Jordan; why did you start to run backward? ⁶ Mountains; why are you leaping like rams? And hills; why are you acting like lambs?

⁷ In the presence of Jehovah the whole earth is shaken… yes in the presence of Jacob’s God. ⁸ For He turned rock into a water-filled lake… from stone He chiseled out springs. ⁹ But not for our sake, O Jehovah… not for us, but to glorify Your Name, and because of Your mercy and truth, ¹⁰ so the nations will not ask ‘Where’s their God?’

¹¹ Our God lives in the heavens, and He does as He wants on the earth. ¹² But the nations worship idols of silver and gold… things that were made by men’s hands. ¹³ Mouths they have but they cannot speak; eyes they have but they cannot see; ¹⁴ ears they have but they cannot hear; they also have noses but they cannot smell. ¹⁵ They have hands but they cannot handle; they also have feet but they cannot walk… nor can they speak with their throats. ¹⁶ Let the people who made them be like them, as well as all who [bow down] before them.

¹⁷ The house of Israel hopes in Jehovah; He’s their defender and helper. ¹⁸ The house of Aaron hopes in Jehovah; He’s their defender and helper. ¹⁹ All those who are fearing Jehovah, are those who trust in the Lord, for He’s their defender and helper.

²⁰ Jehovah remembered and blest us; the house of Israel He has blest, and the house of Aaron He has blest; ²¹ He has blest those fearing the Lord great and small.

²² May the Lord provide for you and your sons… ²³ may you be blest by Jehovah… He who created the heavens and earth. ²⁴ For the heavens belong to Jehovah, but to the sons of men He gave the earth.

²⁵ The dead will not praise You Jehovah, nor will those who go down to the grave. ²⁶ It is we the living who offer You praise, both now and into the ages.

Psalm 115

Praise Jah.

¹ I love it that Jehovah will listen, to the sounds of the things that I beg for. ² For, He has leaned His ear down toward me, and I’ll call upon Him all my days.

³ By the pangs of death I’ve been encircled… dangers of the grave are now all around me, and I know affliction and grief. ⁴ So, I’ll call on the Name the Lord: ‘Oh Jehovah please save my life!’

⁵ Merciful and just is Jehovah, for our God is He who shows mercy. ⁶ He’s the One that guards infants; yes by this Lord I’ve been humbled and saved.

⁷ O my soul return to your rest, for Jehovah has watched over you. ⁸ My life He has rescued from death; my eyes [He has saved] from [many] tears; and [He has kept] my feet from wrong steps.

⁹ Before Jehovah I wish to be pleasing, and to be found in the place of the living.

Psalm 116

Praise Jah.

¹ I was proud and that’s why I spoke, but I was exceedingly humbled. ² For, in my ecstasy I said, ‘Every man is a liar.’

³ With what can I repay Jehovah, for all that He’s done for me? ⁴ I will accept His cup of salvation, and on the Name Jehovah I will call. ⁵ My vows to Jehovah I will render, there before all His people. ⁶ Yes, there before all His holy ones, I’ll show my regard for Jehovah.

⁷ O Jehovah, I am Your servant; the son of Your female slave. It is You who tore off my bonds, ⁸ so a sacrifice of praise I will offer, and on the Name Jehovah I will call.

⁹ I will pay my vows to Jehovah, before all of His people, ¹⁰ there in the courtyard of [His] House… there in Jerusalem’s midst.

Psalm 117

Praise Jah.

¹ Praise Jehovah you nations. May He be praised by all you people, ² for His mercy upon us is strong, and the truth of Jehovah lasts through the age.

Psalm 118

Praise Jah.

¹ Praise Jehovah because He is good, and His mercy endures through the ages. ² May the house of Israel say ‘He is good, and His mercy endures through the ages.’ ³ May the house of Aaron say ‘He is good, and His mercy endures through the ages.’ ⁴ May those fearing Jehovah say ‘He is good, and His mercy endures through the ages.’

⁵ In my affliction I called to Jehovah, and He answered my prayers in a great way. ⁶ Jehovah’s my helper so I will not fear, whatever things men can do. ⁷ For since Jehovah is my helper, my enemies will be inspected by me.

⁸ It is better to yield to Jehovah, than to give in to men. ⁹ It is better to hope in Jehovah, than to put trust in your rulers.

¹⁰ All the nations had me surrounded, but in the Name of Jehovah I pushed them away. ¹¹ They had me encircled… I was surrounded, but in the Name of Jehovah I pushed them away. ¹² As bees on a honeycomb I was covered, but they were burned away like a thorn-bush on fire… in the Name of Jehovah I pushed them away.

¹³ I was stabbed through and fell flat on the ground, when Jehovah took hold of my [hand]. ¹⁴ Jehovah’s my strength and my song of praise… He has become my Savior. ¹⁵ He’s the voice of shouting in joy, and a Savior in the tents of the righteous.

Jehovah’s right hand has acted in power, ¹⁶ and by His right hand I was lifted… yes, Jehovah’s right hand has acted in power. ¹⁷ So, I will not die, I will live! And I will describe the works of the Lord. ¹⁸ Jehovah has given me correction, and to death He did not hand me over. ¹⁹ The gates of justice opened before me, so I will walk through and confess to Jehovah. ²⁰ For this is the gate of Jehovah, and all the righteous pass through it.

²¹ Because You heard me I will confess… yes, because You’re my Savior. ²² The stone that the builders rejected, has become the chief cornerstone… ²³ it is by Jehovah that this happened, and it’s a wonderful thing in our eyes.

²⁴ This is the day that was made by Jehovah, and for it we’ll cry out in joy: ²⁵ ‘O Jehovah, please save us! O Jehovah, please bless our way! ²⁶ Blest is he who comes in God’s Name… from Jehovah’s House we will praise you!’

²⁷ Jehovah is God and He’s shining upon us, so come gather together for a great holiday… come with many sacrifices, to offer upon the horns of the Altar.

²⁸ You are my God, so to You I’ll confess. You are my God, so I’ll hold You high. I’ll confess that You have listened to me, and that You are my Savior. ²⁹ Because He is good I’ll confess to Jehovah, and His mercy endures through the ages.

Psalm 119

Praise Jah.

¹ Those who are spotless are blest… those who follow the Law of Jehovah. ² Those who search for His proofs are blest… those who seek Him with their whole hearts. ³ But those who keep breaking His Laws, have never followed His ways.

⁴ You have told them to keep Your Commandments. ⁵ O straighten my ways to follow Your Laws, ⁶ so in no way will I ever be shamed, by failing to keep Your Commandments.

⁷ To You I’ll confess with a pure heart, and I will learn of Your judgments and justice. ⁸ I’ll follow all of Your Laws, so do not leave me abandoned.

⁹ How can a young man keep his ways straight? By obeying Your Word with his whole heart. ¹⁰ And with all my heart I’ve inquired of You, so from Your Commandments don’t thrust me away.

¹¹ Your prophecies I’ve hidden inside my heart, so I will not sin against You. ¹² May You be praised O Jehovah; please teach me [all of] Your ways.

¹³ With my lips I’ll declare the decisions, that have come from Your mouth. ¹⁴ In the testimonies You’ve given I have delighted, and I’ve placed them high above wealth.

¹⁵ Upon Your Commandments I’ll meditate, and I’ll contemplate all of Your ways. ¹⁶ I’ll also think of Your Laws, and never forget the things You have said.

¹⁷ Bless and invigorate Your servant, and I will do as You’ve said. ¹⁸ Uncover my eyes and I’ll contemplate, the wonders of all Your Laws.

¹⁹ I’m just a visitor on this earth, so do not hide Your Commandments. ²⁰ My soul has longed for Your judgments… they’ve been my desire on every occasion.

²¹ You have reproached all the proud, and those who reject Your Commandments are cursed. ²² So, remove from me all the scorn and contempt, for into Your proofs I’ve inquired.

²³ Against Your servant even rulers have spoken ill, but Your servant has thought of Your righteous ways. ²⁴ For Your testimonies are the things that I contemplate, and Your Laws are my advice.

²⁵ My soul is stuck to the floor, but Your Word is giving me life. ²⁶ My ways I have openly declared, and You have heard [all my prayers]. Teach me Your rules ²⁷ and show Me Your Laws. Bring understanding to me, and on Your wonders I’ll meditate.

²⁸ Due to indifference my soul was asleep, so make me firm in Your words. ²⁹ Remove from me the ways of injustice, and by Your Law show mercy on me.

³⁰ The way of truth I have chosen, and Your decisions I haven’t forgotten. ³¹ I’ve stuck by all Your just ways, so O Lord, don’t put me to shame.

³² In the way of Your Commandments I’ve run, from the time that You widened my heart. ³³ So, establish for me the way of Your Laws, and I’ll always seek them, Jehovah.

³⁴ Bring understanding to me, and Your Law I’ll search for and guard with my heart. ³⁵ On the road of Your Commandments please guide me, for that is what I’ve always desired.

³⁶ Lean my heart toward Your righteous ways, not toward the desire for great wealth. ³⁷ Please give direction to my eyes, so I’ll never look at what’s foolish.

Make me alive in Your ways! ³⁸ Give Your servant an omen to fear You! ³⁹ Remove all the scorn and the things that I dread, because Your decisions are [just and] kind.

⁴⁰ Your Commandments I’ve always desired, so make me alive in the ways of Your justice. ⁴¹ Bring to me Your mercy O Jehovah, and save me as You once promised. ⁴² Then I can answer those who berate me, for I’ve put my hope in Your words.

⁴³ Don’t remove Your words of truth from my mouth, for I’ve raised much hope through Your judgments. ⁴⁴ I’ll guard Your Law through the ages, and into the age of ages.

⁴⁵ Because I have searched Your Commandments, my life has become much greater. ⁴⁶ I’ve spoken of Your ways before kings, and I was never ashamed.

⁴⁷ Upon Your Commandments I’ve meditated, and them I’ve come to love dearly. ⁴⁸ I’ve raised my hands to Your Commandments; I’ve loved and thought of Your rules.

⁴⁹ Remember Your words to Your servant, which have raised my hopes high. ⁵⁰ They brought me comfort during my humiliation, and Your omens brought back my life.

⁵¹ The proud have all been very unjust, but I’ve not turned from Your Laws. ⁵² Through the age I’ve remembered Your decisions, and O Jehovah; they have brought me much comfort.

⁵³ Because of the sinners I was depressed… those who’ve abandoned Your Laws. ⁵⁴ Your rules are like chords of music to me; for wherever I go [they are with me].

⁵⁵ During the night I think of Your Name; O Jehovah, I have followed Your Law. ⁵⁶ All the [good] things that happened to me, have come because I searched for Your ways.

⁵⁷ O Jehovah; You are the share I was given, and I’ve spoken of guarding Your Law. ⁵⁸ With my whole heart I’ve begged to Your face, so show mercy on me as You promised.

⁵⁹ Oh, I have argued Your ways, and I’ve turned my feet toward Your proofs. ⁶⁰ I prepared myself and was never disturbed, to keep all Your Commandments.

⁶¹ By the cords of sinners I’ve been twisted, but I’ve never forgotten Your Laws. ⁶² At midnight I awoke to make a confession, about Your decisions and justice.

⁶³ I’m a partner to all those who fear You… those who keep Your commandments. ⁶⁴ With Your mercy the whole earth is filled, and I’ve been taught by Your rules.

⁶⁵ You’ve used Your servant to do many good things, according to Your word, O Jehovah. ⁶⁶ Instruct me in the knowledge of good, for in Your Commandments I’ve trusted.

⁶⁷ Before I was humbled I’d committed sins, and because of this I’ve guarded Your omens. ⁶⁸ Benevolent You are O Jehovah, and in Your kindness teach me Your Laws.

⁶⁹ The injustice of the proud has burdened me down, but with my whole heart I’ll seek Your Commandments. ⁷⁰ Like [spoiled] milk their hearts have been curdled, but I have thought of Your Laws.

⁷¹ It’s a good thing that You’ve made me humble, so I would learn of Your rules. ⁷² For me the Laws that come from Your mouth, are more valued than coins of silver and gold.

⁷³ It was Your hands that made me and shaped me, so bring understanding to me, and I will learn Your Commandments.

⁷⁴ Those who fear You will see me and rejoice, for in Your words I have raised hope. ⁷⁵ O Jehovah; I’ve seen the justice of Your judgments, and with Your truth You’ve humbled me.

⁷⁶ Allow Your mercy to bring comfort to me, as in the omen [You gave] to Your servant. ⁷⁷ Show me all Your compassions and I’ll live, for Your Law is all that I think of.

⁷⁸ May the proud be ashamed of injustice against me, because they have acted without law; but on Your Commandments I’ll meditate.

⁷⁹ Turn toward me, all those fearing You… those who’ve seen all Your proofs. ⁸⁰ Make my heart [pure] in Your rules, so I will not be ashamed. ⁸¹ My soul longs for salvation, and in Your words I’ve raised hope.

⁸² My eyes have failed when it comes to Your signs, so when will You bring me some comfort? ⁸³ For I’ve become like a leather bag in the frost, yet Your rules I haven’t forgotten.

⁸⁴ How many are the days of Your servant? When will You bring judgment on those who pursue me? ⁸⁵ Lawbreakers have thought and plotted against me, but not by Your Law, O Jehovah.

⁸⁶ All Your Commandments are true, but unjustly they’ve chased me and I need Your help. ⁸⁷ Soon they’d have wiped me away from the ground, yet I’ve never left Your Commandments. ⁸⁸ In Your mercy strengthen my life, and I’ll guard the words that come from Your mouth.

⁸⁹ Through the ages, O Jehovah, Your word abides in the heavens. ⁹⁰ From generation to generation Your truth has always been there… You laid the foundation of the earth and it lasts. ⁹¹ It’s at Your choosing that each day comes to be… all things are under Your power.

⁹² Had I not thought of Your Law, I’d have been destroyed in humiliation. ⁹³ May I not forget Your rules through the age, for they have given me life.

⁹⁴ Because I am Yours, please save me! For, I’ve searched for all of Your rules. ⁹⁵ Yet sinners have stayed to destroy me, because I’ve paid attention to Your ways.

⁹⁶ When I thought that I saw the end, Your Commandments provided [more] room. ⁹⁷ How I have loved Your Law, O Jehovah, through the whole day it stays on my mind.

⁹⁸ Above my enemies You made me much wiser, and Your Commandments are mine through the age. ⁹⁹ I have see more than all those who taught me, for Your instructions are the things I considered. ¹⁰⁰ I see more than all of the elders, because I have searched Your Commandments.

¹⁰¹ I’ve restrained my feet from what’s evil, so I can guard all Your words. ¹⁰² From Your judgments I’ve not turned aside, for You have established my laws.

¹⁰³ How sweet to my throat are the things that You say; they’re like honey inside my mouth. ¹⁰⁴ From Your Commandments I’ve learned, and I’ve hated the ways of injustice.

¹⁰⁵ Your Law is a lamp to my feet, and it’s a light to all of my paths. ¹⁰⁶ I have stood and swore by an oath, to guard Your justice and judgments.

¹⁰⁷ O Jehovah, I’ve been humbled, so enliven me as You promised. ¹⁰⁸ Voluntary offerings that come from my mouth, bring me much pleasure, O Jehovah, so teach me all Your decisions.

¹⁰⁹ My life is always in Your hands, O Jehovah, and Your Law I have not forgotten. ¹¹⁰ Although sinners have set snares in my paths, from Your Commandments I’ve never strayed.

¹¹¹ I have inherited Your proofs through the age, and they make my heart leap for joy. ¹¹² I’ve inclined my heart to pay attention to Your rules, through the age in repayment [for Your goodness].

¹¹³ Those who break laws I’ve detested, for I have loved all Your Laws. ¹¹⁴ You are my helper and shield, and by Your words I’ve raised hopes.

¹¹⁵ Turn away from me, O you wicked, for I’ll search the Commandments of God. ¹¹⁶ Take hold of me [as You said] in Your omen; invigorate me… bring no shame to my hopes.

¹¹⁷ Help me and I will be saved, then I’ll always think of Your rules. ¹¹⁸ But those who turned from me in contempt, have broken Your rules with unrighteous thoughts. ¹¹⁹ The sinners in the land are breaking Your Laws, and because of this, I’ve loved all Your proofs.

¹²⁰ In fear of You they nailed up my flesh; because of Your judgments they feared me. ¹²¹ I brought justice and judgment, so do not save those who have wronged me.

¹²² Keep an eye on Your servant for good; don’t allow the proud extort me. ¹²³ My eyes are waiting upon Your salvation, and the sacred words of Your justice.

¹²⁴ In Your mercy deal with Your servant, and teach me Your righteous ways. ¹²⁵ Help me to know, for I am Your servant, and I will make known all Your proofs.

¹²⁶ It’s time to act O Jehovah, for they’ve wiped away all Your Laws. ¹²⁷ On account of this I’ve loved Your Commandments, more so than topaz or gold.

¹²⁸ For this, I’ve followed Your Commandments; I’ve detested the ways of the unrighteous. ¹²⁹ Wondrous are the proofs You’ve provided, and for them I’ll search with my whole life.

¹³⁰ Manifestations of Your words shed light, and bring understanding to the simple.

¹³¹ I have opened my mouth and I’ve sighed, because Your Commandments I’ve longed for. ¹³² Look upon me and show mercy; show mercy to those who love Your Name.

¹³³ Please straighten my steps toward ways I should walk; by Your promise may lawlessness not rule me. ¹³⁴ Ransom me from the extortion of men, and I will keep Your Commandments.

¹³⁵ Show Your face to Your servant, and teach me all of Your rules. ¹³⁶ For, streams of water flow from my eyes, whenever I’ve broken Your Laws.

¹³⁷ You are righteous Jehovah, and all Your decisions are straight. ¹³⁸ You’ve told us [that we must be] just, and the things that You say are all very true.

¹³⁹ For You I have wasted away in my zeal, but my enemies have forgotten Your words. ¹⁴⁰ The signs that You sent are like a great fire; Your servant loves them in truth.

¹⁴¹ Because I am younger I’m treated with contempt, but Your rules I haven’t forgotten. ¹⁴² Your justice is righteous through the ages, and true are all of Your Laws.

¹⁴³ Distress and afflictions have found me, but upon Your Commandments I still meditate. ¹⁴⁴ Your proofs are just through the ages… help me understand them so I can continue to live.

¹⁴⁵ I’ve cried out with my whole heart, ‘Hear me Jehovah and I’ll search for Your rules.’ ¹⁴⁶ To You I called out ‘Please save me; and Your righteous ways I will follow.’

¹⁴⁷ Sometime before midnight I called out [to You], and in Your words I put hope. ¹⁴⁸ Then as my eyes opened before dawn, I thought upon all of Your omens.

¹⁴⁹ Hear my voice in Your mercy Jehovah. In Your justice make me alive. ¹⁵⁰ Draw in the ones who lawlessly chase me, because they are far from Your Laws.

¹⁵¹ You are near O Jehovah, and all of Your ways are truthful. ¹⁵² From the beginning I’ve known of Your proofs, and that into age You made them.

¹⁵³ See my humiliation and save me, for I’ve not forgotten Your Law. ¹⁵⁴ Judge my case and [give justice]; for the sake of Your Word, make me alive.

¹⁵⁵ O take me away, far from the sinners, for they haven’t searched for Your rules. ¹⁵⁶ You are filled with compassion O Jehovah, so enliven me with Your righteous decisions.

¹⁵⁷ Many are those who are driving me out… many are those who oppress me; yet I haven’t turned aside from Your proofs. ¹⁵⁸ I’ve seen others who are lacking good sense… they’re wasting away for disobeying Your words.

¹⁵⁹ Look, O Jehovah, I’ve loved Your Commandments! So in Your mercy make me alive. ¹⁶⁰ Your words have been true since the beginning, and Your justice and judgments abide through the ages.

¹⁶¹ Rulers have pursued me without a [legal] charge, and my heart was in dread of Your words. ¹⁶² But I’ll shout in praise of the omens You sent, as one who has found great plunder.

¹⁶³ I’ve detested and abhorred all injustice, and Your Law I’ve always loved. ¹⁶⁴ Seven times each day I have praised Your decisions, as well as all of Your justice.

¹⁶⁵ Peace comes to those who love Your Law, and nothing can stand in their way. ¹⁶⁶ O Jehovah; Your salvation I have expected, for Your Commandments I always have loved.

¹⁶⁷ My soul has always guarded Your proofs; It has shown how much I truly love them. ¹⁶⁸ I have kept Your words and Commandments… all my ways are before You, Jehovah.

¹⁶⁹ O Jehovah; Please hear the things that I beg, and give me understanding as You showed in Your sign. ¹⁷⁰ If I am worthy O Jehovah, please allow me now to approach You… please rescue me as You showed in Your signs.

¹⁷¹ From my lips I sang out a hymn, whenever You taught me Your rules. ¹⁷² With my tongue may I sing of Your signs, for all Your Commandments are righteous.

¹⁷³ Send Your hand down to save me, for all Your Commandments I’ve adopted. ¹⁷⁴ Your salvation is what I have longed for Jehovah, and Your Law is all that I think of.

¹⁷⁵ If You’ll allow me to live, I will [continue to] praise You, and then Your decisions will aid me. ¹⁷⁶ As a sheep that would perish I’ve wandered alone, so please come and search for Your servant, because Your Commandments I’ve never forgotten.

Psalm 120

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ In my despair I called to Jehovah, and He listened to [my prayer]. ² [I said]: ‘From the lips of the unrighteous please save me Jehovah, and from those with deceitful tongues.

³ ‘What can I give and what can I add, to those with tongues that are lying? ⁴ For all the arrows of the mighty, are now being sharpened with coals.

⁵ ‘Oh, I have traveled so far, and I’ve camped in [the Valley of] Cedars. ⁶ My soul has traveled to get far away, from all those who hate peace. ⁷ Though I spoke to them in a peaceable way, they waged war with me for no reason.’

Psalm 121

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ I’ve lifted my eyes toward the Mountain, from which comes all my help. ² For, my help comes from Jehovah… He who made the heavens and earth. ³ In Him your feet will not stumble, for He who guards you doesn’t slumber; ⁴ He does not slumber or sleep… He who is Israel’s guard.

⁵ Jehovah’s your guard and He’s your protection; He’s always at your right hand. ⁶ So by day the sun will not strike you, nor will the moon during the night. ⁷ For; Jehovah will guard you from evil… the Lord watches over your soul. ⁸ Jehovah will guard your comings and goings, from now and into the ages.

Psalm 122

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ I’m overjoyed whenever they tell me, ‘To the house of Jehovah we’ll go, ² where we’ll stand within Jerusalem’s gates.’

³ Jerusalem was built as a city, which we can all share together. ⁴ The tribes of Jehovah go up there, as is required by Israel’s Law. ⁵ For there sit the thrones from which come judgments… the thrones of the house of [King] David. ⁶ And there you can [pray] for Jerusalem’s peace, and prosperity for those loving you.

⁷ [Pray}: Let there be peace for your army, and prosperity for your fortified towers. ⁸ Because of my brothers and neighbors, I have asked for peace upon you… ⁹ I’ve come to the [House] of Jehovah our God, in order to ask good things for you.

Psalm 123

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ I have raised my eyes to He who lives in the heavens. ² {Look!} As the eyes of a slave look to the hands of his master, and as the eyes of a handmaid look to the hands of her lady, our eyes look to Jehovah our God, until He takes pity on us.

³ Show mercy on us O Jehovah; show mercy on us, for we’ve been treated with contempt… ⁴ our lives have been filled with the scorn of the rich, and the contempt of those who are proud.

Psalm 124

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ Unless Jehovah was with us… ² Say it Israel!

³ Unless Jehovah was with us, the men who attacked would have swallowed us down. ⁴ In their rage we’d be sunk in the water, and the wadis would have taken our lives… ⁵ their raging waters would have taken our lives.

⁶ Praise Jehovah for He has provided… He didn’t give us as game for their teeth. ⁷ Our lives have been rescued like sparrows, from the traps of a man who is hunting. For now their snares have been broken, and from them we have been rescued. ⁸ In the Name Jehovah we looked for our aid… He who made the heavens and earth.

Psalm 125

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ Those who put their trust in Jehovah, are like those [who live on] Mount Zion. For those who dwell in Jerusalem, will not be shaken through the age. ² As she is surrounded by mountains, Jehovah has surrounded His people, both now and into the age.

³ Jehovah won’t allow the rod of the sinners, to [fall on the backs] of the righteous. They won’t be stretched out before them, to be mistreated by their hands.

⁴ O Jehovah, do good to the good, and for those who are having straight hearts. ⁵ But to those who are turning toward badness, with the lawless remove them, O Lord.

Peace to Israel!

Psalm 126

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ When Jehovah returns the captives of Zion, it will bring us much comfort. ² With joyful [cries] our mouths will be filled, and with our tongues we’ll shout cheers. Then those of the nations will say, ‘Jehovah has made Himself great, in the way that He’s dealing with them.’ ³ Yes, He has made Himself great, in the way that He’s dealing with us, for He has made us all joyful.

⁴ Jehovah, return all our captives, as You [return water] to the streams in the south. ⁵ Then those who are planting with tears, will harvest with cries that are joyful. ⁶ For the ones who were taken are gone, and those scattering their seeds do so with tears. But when they return we’ll be shouting in joy, as we carry our sheaves.

Psalm 127

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ If the house isn’t built by Jehovah, its builders have [worked hard] in vain. And if Jehovah’s not guarding the city, it’s in vain to stay awake and keep guard… ² yes, though you rise early and go to bed late, it will all be in vain. O you who are eating the bread of grief; when will He bring sleep to those whom He loves?

³ {Look!} The inheritance of Jehovah is sons; they are the wage and the fruit of the womb. ⁴ The sons born to you are like arrows, in the hands of the mighty. ⁵ So, blest are those who’ve fill their [quivers] with [sons], for they will not be disgraced, when they speak to their enemies who’ve arrived at their gates.

Psalm 128

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ Blest are those fearing Jehovah… those who walk in His ways. ² For; from the works of your hands you will eat… you’ll be blest and things will go well. ³ Your wife will prosper like the grapevine, which grows on the walls of your house, and your sons will be like new-planted olives, as they sit at your table.

⁴ {Look!} The man who fears Jehovah is blest… ⁵ may He bless you from Zion. The good things of Jerusalem may you see, all the days of your life, ⁶ and may You behold the sons of your sons… may there be peace upon Israel!

Psalm 129

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ Many times they’ve waged war against me, since the time of my youth… Say it Israel!

² Many times they’ve waged war against me, since the time of my youth, yet they were unable to beat me.

³ Against my back the sinners have conspired, and continued in their lawless ways. ⁴ But [Jehovah our God] is righteous, for He has chopped off the necks of the sinners.

⁵ Let them be shamed and forced to retreat… all those detesting Mount Zion. ⁶ Let them become like the grass on the roofs, after it’s pulled up and dried.

⁷ Why hasn’t the harvester filled up his hands, or collected the sheaves to his bosom? ⁸ Because those who passed didn’t offer this blessing: ‘We bless you in the Name of the Lord.’

Psalm 130

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ To You I cried from the depths, O Jehovah: ² ‘O Jehovah, please hear my voice! May Your ears hear the words of my prayers. ³ O Lord; If You look upon all our lawless deeds, who will then stand [before You] Jehovah? ⁴ But although You should be feared, You have covered our sins.

Because of Your Name I’ve waited for You… ⁵ O Jehovah my soul has awaited Your word. ⁶ My life has put hope in Jehovah, from the watch in the morning until late at night.

⁷ Let Israel put hope in Jehovah, for He provides mercy and [He pays our] ransom… ⁸ He’ll ransom Israel from their lawless ways.

Psalm 131

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ O Jehovah; my heart is not exalted, nor are my eyes raised too high. I haven’t traveled among great ones, or in the wonders above me.

² I will have sinned if I were not humble, but now my life has been raised, as one who is weaned by his mother. So please will You ransom my soul?

³ In Jehovah let Israel hope, both now and into the age.

Psalm 132

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ O Jehovah; Remember [King] David and all his gentle ways. ² For, he swore an oath to Jehovah… to the God of Jacob he made a vow. (He said), ³ ‘Will I go into the tent of my house? Will I ascend to make a casket my bed? ⁴ Will I let my eyes fall asleep, and my eyelids slumber and rest in my house? ⁵ When will I find a place for Jehovah… a Temple for Jacob’s God?’

⁶ Look! We’ve heard that it was in EphRatha, and we found it in the plains among the groves. ⁷ So, we’ll go to His Tent and we’ll bow, in the place that’s His footstool.

⁸ From Your rest arise O Jehovah, and [come to] the Chest in Your Holy Place. ⁹ Then Your Priests will make themselves righteous, and Your sacred ones will cry out in joy.

¹⁰ Because of David Your servant, from Your anointed don’t turn away. ¹¹ For, the Lord swore this oath to David in truth, and He will never annul it: ‘The fruit of your belly I’ll establish on your throne. ¹² And if your sons guard My Sacred Agreement, and obey all the rules that I’ll teach them, their sons will sit on your throne through the ages.’

¹³ For Jehovah has chosen [Mount] Zion; He chose it as His place to dwell. (He said): ¹⁴ ‘This is [where I’ll] rest for ages of ages; it’s what I’ve selected and where I will dwell.

¹⁵ ‘Her blest wild animals I’ll bless, and her poor I’ll fill up with bread. ¹⁶ Her Priests I’ll clothe with salvation, and I’ll cheer her holy ones with cheers.

¹⁷ ‘There David’s trumpet I’ll cause to be raised; a lamp for My anointed I have prepared. ¹⁸ I will clothe his enemies in shame, but upon him I’ll make holiness blossom.’

Psalm 133

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ {Look!} How good and delightful it is, when brothers all live together. ² It’s like perfumed oil that runs down the beard… upon Aaron’s beard then runs down his clothes. ³ It’s like the dew on [Mount] Hermon, that runs down to the mountains of Zion. For it’s there that Jehovah gave [meaning], to the blessing of life in the age.

Psalm 134

A song [to be sung] while ascending [to the Temple on Mount MoriAh].

¹ Praise Jehovah all you His servants, those standing in the House of Jehovah… those who stand in the courtyards, of the House of our God through the night. ² Raise your hands to His Holy Place, and then give praise to Jehovah. ³ May Jehovah bless you from Zion, He who made heaven and earth.

Psalm 135

Praise Jah.

¹ Praise the Name of the Lord; Praise Him you servants of Jehovah… ² you who stand in the House of Jehovah, and in the courtyards of the House of our God. ³ Praise Jehovah because He is good. Play music to His good Name. ⁴ For He chose Jacob as His own… as a prized possession of Israel’s Lord

⁵ I know that Jehovah is great, and our Lord is above all other gods. ⁶ All that He wants He has done in the heavens, as well as here on earth, and in the seas and their depths. ⁷ He leads the clouds from the ends of the earth. It’s He who made the lightning and rain, and He brings the wind from His storehouse.

⁸ He struck the firstborn of Egypt; all those from animals to man. ⁹ Signs and wonders He sent throughout Egypt… upon Pharaoh and all his servants.

¹⁰ He’s the One who struck many nations, and killed many strong kings. ¹¹ There was Seon the Amorite king, as well as Og, king of BaShan, and all the kingdoms of CanaAn. ¹² Their land He gave for us to inherit… for His people Israel to own.

¹³ O Jehovah; Your Name [lasts] through the age; from generation to generation it’s how You are known. ¹⁴ Jehovah will judge all His people, and then His people will bring Him great comfort.

¹⁵ The idols of the nations are silver and gold… they are the works of men’s hands. ¹⁶ A mouth they have but they cannot speak; eyes they have but they cannot see; ¹⁷ ears they have but they cannot hear, nor have they breath in their mouths. ¹⁸ May those who made them become just like them, as well as all those who serve them.

¹⁹ O house of Israel, praise Jehovah! O house of Aaron praise Jehovah! ²⁰ O house of Levi praise Jehovah! All those fearing the Lord praise Jehovah! ²¹ May Jehovah be praised in Zion… He who dwells in Jerusalem.

Psalm 136

Praise Jah.

¹ Let’s confess to Jehovah because He is good, and His mercy is into the ages. ² Let’s confess to the God of all gods, for His mercy is into the ages. ³ Let’s confess to the Lord of all lords, for His mercy is into the ages. ⁴ He alone does things wondrous and great, and His mercy is into the ages.

⁵ It’s He who skillfully crafted the sky, and His mercy is into the ages. ⁶ Above the waters He made the ground solid, and His mercy is into the ages. ⁷ He alone made great lights [in the sky], and His mercy is into the ages. ⁸ He made the sun the ruler of day, and His mercy is into the ages. ⁹ The moon and the stars He made rulers of night, and His mercy is into the ages.

¹⁰ It was He who struck the firstborn of Egypt, and His mercy is into the ages; ¹¹ then from their midst He led Israel out, for His mercy is into the ages; ¹² with His strong hand and His arms raised high, for His mercy is into the ages. ¹³ Then He divided the Red Sea in half, for His mercy is into the ages; ¹⁴ and He led Israel [down] through its midst, for His mercy is into the ages. ¹⁵ He shook Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea, for His mercy is into the ages.

¹⁶ It is He who led His people in the desert, for His mercy is into the ages. ¹⁷ There many great kings He struck down, for His mercy is into the ages… ¹⁸ yes many strong kings He then killed, for His mercy is into the ages, ¹⁹ such as Seon the Amorite king, for His mercy is into the ages, ²⁰ as well as Og, king of Bashan, for His mercy is into the ages. ²¹ Then as our inheritance He gave us their land, for His mercy is into the ages… ²² an inheritance to Israel His servant, for His mercy is into the ages.

²³ In our humiliation He didn’t forget us, for His mercy is into the ages; ²⁴ and from the hands of our enemies [paid our] ransom, for His mercy is into the ages. ²⁵ Then nourishment for our flesh He provided, for His mercy is into the ages. ²⁶ So, confess to God O you heavens, for His mercy is into the ages.

Psalm 137

A Psalm of David through Jeremiah.

¹ At the rivers of Babylon we sat, and wept remembering Zion… ² yes, we hung our instruments on the willows in its midst. ³ For it was there that our captors had asked us, to sing them the words of our songs… yes those who took us away had asked: ‘From the odes of Zion sing us a song.’

⁴ How can we sing the songs of Jehovah, within an alien land? ⁵ O Jerusalem, should I ere forget you, may I also forget my right hand. ⁶ May my tongue stick to my throat, if I should fail to remember, and Jerusalem fail to prefer, as I did in my joy long ago.

⁷ Remember the sons of Edom, O Jehovah, when it’s Jerusalem’s day… those who said ‘Make it empty… empty it to its very foundations!’

⁸ O daughters of miserable Babylon; blest is the One who repays you, with the same sort of payment that you brought upon us… ⁹ yes, blest is the one who will grab hold of you, and dash your infants on the rocks!

Psalm 138

A Psalm for David, by HagGai and ZachariJah.

¹ With my whole heart I thank You Jehovah, and before the messengers I will sing songs, for You have heard all the words from my mouth. ² Toward Your Holy House I will bow, and I’ll give thanks to Your Name, because of Your mercy and truth… yes Your Holy Name that You’ve raised above all.

³ In whatever day that I call upon You, please quickly answer my prayer, and give my soul the strength to endure. ⁴ Let all the kings of the earth give You thanks, for they’ve heard all the words that come from Your mouth. ⁵ Then let them sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of Jehovah is great. ⁶ Although Jehovah is high, He still cares for the lowly, and those who are haughty He sees from afar.

⁷ Though I should walk through the midst of hard times, You will invigorate me. Against the rage of my enemies, You have stretched out Your hands, and with Your right hand You saved me.

⁸ O Lord; On my behalf please repay them, for Your mercy Jehovah lasts through the age. Please don’t overlook the works of Your hands!

Psalm 139

To the director; A Psalm.

¹ O Jehovah, You’ve tried me and known me. ² You know when I rise and when I sit down, and from afar You’ve known all my thoughts. ³ You’ve traced out my path through bent grass, and looked out ahead of the way that I’ll go, ⁴ so You know that there’s no deceit in my tongue.

Look O Jehovah… there’s nothing that You do not know… ⁵ the things that have past and the things that will be. It’s You who shaped me, and then laid me in Your hand. ⁶ The knowledge of You brings wonder and strength… but there’s no way that I will ever attain it.

⁷ Where could I go [to hide] from Your Breath, and where could I flee from Your presence? ⁸ You’d be there if I [flew] to the sky, and You’d be at hand if I went to the grave. ⁹ If I could take wings [and fly to] the dawn, or should I camp at the ends of the seas, ¹⁰ Your hand would be there to guide me, and You’d hold me in Your right hand.

¹¹ I said: ‘I’ll surely be trampled by darkness, and the night will shine upon my despotic ways. ¹² For darkness isn’t darkness to You; night is as day and darkness as light. ¹³ Why, You [have examined] my kidneys… it was You who took me from the womb of my mother! ¹⁴ So, I will offer You praise; for, of the wonders of Your works I’ve wondered in fear… and the man that I am knows how true that is.

¹⁵ Even my bones weren’t hidden from You, when You made me in secret… when I was conceived on the earth. ¹⁶ Your eyes saw me before I was finished, for the days of all men are written in Your scroll… on the day they are formed and no one’s among them.

¹⁷ How precious are Your thoughts, O my God, for from the beginning they’re exceedingly strong. ¹⁸ And if I could count them there’d be more than sand; yet when I awake You’re still with me.

¹⁹ Please kill the sinners O God… turn away all those men of blood! ²⁰ For, concerning their thoughts You have said, that they act like fools in Your cities.

²¹ O Jehovah; Do I not detest those who hate You, and against Your enemies show zeal? ²² In perfect hatred I’ve learned to detest them, and they have become my enemies too.

²³ So, try me O God and examine my heart… examine me and know all my paths. ²⁴ See if lawlessness ways are within me, then guide me in the ways of the ages.

Psalm 140

To the director; A Psalm of David.

¹ Take me away O Jehovah, from all those wicked men… save me from unrighteous men; ² those whose hearts are unrighteous all day, and who are ready for war! ³ For like snakes they have sharpened their tongues, and the poison of asps is under their lips.

⁴ From the hands of sinners please guard me Jehovah… from unrighteous men take me away… those who lay plans to trip up my feet. ⁵ For against me the proud have hidden their snares; lines they’ve extended to trip up my feet; and obstacles they’ve placed near the road.

⁶ I said to Jehovah ‘You are my God; O Lord give ear to the voice of my prayers! ⁷ O my Lord and power of salvation; in the day of the battle, You’ve overshadowed my head.’

⁸ O Jehovah; Don’t grant [the wicked] what they desire, for the sinners who are railing against me. And do not leave me, lest at any time, they should gain the upper hand. ⁹ Bring trouble to the heads of those who surround me, and cover over their lips. ¹⁰ Into coals of fire may they fall… throw them into great misery, and may they not stand up again! ¹¹ May those who slander not prosper; may the unrighteous hunt them like prey, and search for [good] ways to harm them.

¹² I know that Jehovah keeps watch on the poor, and defends the cause of the needy. ¹³ So, may the righteous sing praise to Your Name; may the upright will dwell in [the light] of Your face.

Psalm 141

A Psalm of David.

¹ O Jehovah. I’ve cried out to You. Hear and pay attention to my prayers as I call. ² May my prayers rise before You like incense, and the raising my hands as an offering in the evening.

³ O Jehovah, set a watch for my mouth, and a citadel door for my lips. ⁴ Don’t allow wicked words to enter my heart, or to make excuses for the deeds of the lawless. I’ll have nothing to do with the things they have taken, ⁵ so may the righteous correct me in mercy. May the oil of sinners not anoint my head, for my prayers are against the things that would please them.

⁶ It was near the Rock that their mighty were swallowed, so they’d like to hear the sweet words I’ve spoken. ⁷ Yes the thick ground ripped open, and their bones spewed into their graves.

⁸ In You O Jehovah my Lord, my eyes have trusted in hope, that my life You won’t take away. ⁹ Keep me from the snares they’ve concocted… from the obstacles of those who are lawless.

¹⁰ May the sinners be caught inside their own nets, and I remain alone 'til I’ve passed them by.

Psalm 142

A Psalm of contemplation by David about the time when he was in the cave praying.

¹ With my voice I cried to Jehovah, and to Him I was begging. ² I’ll pour out before Him the things that I need, and tell Him of how I’m oppressed.

³ You know that my breath has failed me, and they’ve hidden a snare on this road that I travel. ⁴ I looked to the right and observed, but I found no one who knew me… there was nowhere to run, and about my life no one inquired.

⁵ So, I cried out to You O Jehovah; I called out to You for You are my hope; You’re my share in the land of the living. ⁶ So, please hear the things that I beg, for I’ve been made very humble. Rescue me from those who pursue me, for they’ve become stronger than me. ⁷ Lead my soul from this prison, so I may keep praising Your Name. For the righteous will still be there waiting, until the time You repay me.

Psalm 143

A Psalm of David about when his son was pursuing him.

¹ Please hear my prayer O Jehovah. In Your truth hear the things that I beg for. Listen to me in Your justice, ² and do not pass judgment on Your servant, for none of the living are righteous before You.

³ My enemy has chased me and humbled my soul; my life has been cut to the ground. Through the rest of the age he has placed me, in the darkness reserved for the dead.

⁴ The spirit within me was bothered, and my heart was disturbed. ⁵ Then days of old I remembered; I thought of the things You have done, and I meditated on the works of Your hands.

⁶ I opened my [arms] and spread them before You, for my life is now like a waterless land. ⁷ But quickly You heard me Jehovah, [before] I gave up my breath.

From me do not turn Your face, so I won’t be as those going into the pit. ⁸ May I be heard again in the morning, for I have hoped in Your mercy.

O Jehovah; Please show me the way I should go, for to You I have lifted my soul. ⁹ From my enemies please save me O Lord, for I’ve taken refuge in You.

¹⁰ You are my God, so teach me to do as You wish. Your Breath is good and will guide me, in the paths that are straight.

¹¹ Because of Your Name O Jehovah, You will allow me to live, and Your justice will lead me, away from this pain in my life.

¹² Destroy my enemies in your mercy upon me, and wipe out those who are trying to kill me, because I am Your servant.

Psalm 144

A Psalm of David to GoliAth.

¹ Praise Jehovah my God, the One teaching my hands to fight battles, and the arts of war to my fingers. ² He’s my mercy, my refuge, and shield. He’s my Savior and Defender, so in Him I have put all my hope, for He made my people obey me.

³ Jehovah; Just who is man that You’ve made Yourself known, or the son of man that him You’d consider? ⁴ For man is as something without value, and his days pass by like a shadow.

⁵ O Jehovah; Lean from Your heaven and come down. Touch the mountains and they’ll smoke. ⁶ Send out Your arrows and You will disturb them. Flash lightning and You’ll drive them away.

⁷ Send down Your hand from the heights. Take me and save me from many waters… from the hands of the sons of strangers. ⁸ For, with their mouths they say foolish things, and their right hand’s a hand that’s unrighteous.

⁹ O God; To You I will sing a new song, and on a ten-stringed harp I will play. ¹⁰ For, You bring salvation to kings… from the sword You ransomed Your servant David.

¹¹ From the hands of sons of strangers please save me. For, with their mouths they say foolish things, and their right hand’s a hand that’s unrighteous.

¹² Whose sons are these; they’re like new-planted seeds, which feel secure in their youth. Their daughters are well dressed and brightly adorned… as sumptuously as you’d see in the Temple. ¹³ Their storerooms are filled to overflowing; their sheep are prolific and multiply in the streets, ¹⁴ and their oxen are both thick [and strong]. There are no ruined fences [in their land]; none of their streams are [befouled]; and no crying is heard in their city squares.

¹⁵ Declare them blest of whom such things are true, but blest are the people whose God is Jehovah.

Psalm 145

A praise of David.

¹ I’ll raise You high, my God and my King. I’ll praise Your Name through the age, and into the age of the ages. ² I’ll praise Your Name every day. I’ll praise Your Name through the age, and into the age of the ages.

³ Jehovah is great and very praiseworthy… there is no end to His greatness. ⁴ From generation to generation I’ll praise Your works, and I’ll report of Your power. ⁵ I’ll speak of Your majesty, holiness, and glory, and I will describe all Your wonders. ⁶ They’ll speak of the power of Your fearful acts, and they will describe all Your greatness.

⁷ The memory of the multitude of Your kindnesses will flow, and of Your justice they will shout. ⁸ Jehovah is lenient… full of kindness and mercy. ⁹ Jehovah is benevolent; He shows compassion in all that He does.

¹⁰ May all Your works praise You Jehovah, and may all Your holy ones praise You. ¹¹ They’ll tell of the glory of Your Kingdom, and speak of the realm of Your rule.

¹² To the sons of men may Your rule be made known, and the glory of the majesty of Your Kingdom. ¹³ Your Kingdom is a kingdom of the ages, and your authority is from generation to generation.

Trustworthy is Jehovah in all that He says, and all of His works are holy. ¹⁴ Jehovah supports all those who have fallen, and He re-erects all those who’ve been broken.

¹⁵ To You the eyes of all look in hope, and You give them nourishment at the right time… ¹⁶ You just open Your hand, and all living things are then filled.

¹⁷ Jehovah is righteous in all of His ways, and all of His works are holy. ¹⁸ Jehovah is near to all those who call Him… all those calling on Him in truth.

¹⁹ He’ll do the will of those fearing Him; He’ll hear their prayers and then He will save them. ²⁰ Jehovah is the guard of all those who love Him, but all the sinners He’ll destroy.

²¹ So my mouth will speak in praise of Jehovah, and may all flesh speak of His Holy Name. Praise Him throughout this age, and into the age of the ages!

Psalm 146

Praise Jah. A Psalm of Haggai and ZachariJah.

¹ O my soul, praise Jehovah. ² With my whole life I’ll praise the Lord… I’ll strum to my God for as long as I live.

³ Do not rely upon rulers… sons of men who have no salvation. ⁴ For His breath goes out and he’s gone from his land, and in that day his thoughts pass away.

⁵ He who has the God of Jacob as his helper is blest… he who puts his hope in Jehovah his God… ⁶ the One who made the heavens and the earth, as well as the sea and everything in it. It is He who guards truth through the age, ⁷ bringing justice to those who’ve been wronged, and nourishing those who are hungry.

The Lord unties all those who are shackled, ⁸ and it’s He who gives wisdom to the blind. Jehovah restores all those broken down, and He loves all the righteous.

⁹ The Lord guards foreigners, orphans, and widows, but the ways of sinners He destroys. ¹⁰ Jehovah will reign through the age. O Zion; For generations and generations He is your God.

Psalm 147

Praise Jah. A Psalm of Haggai and ZechariJah.

¹ Praise Jehovah, for our God is good. May His praise be delightful! ² Jehovah is rebuilding Jerusalem, and His scattered people He’ll reassemble.

³ It is He who heals broken hearts, and binds up those who are shattered. ⁴ He has counted all of the stars, and calls each by their names.

⁵ Great is our Lord and great is His strength; there’s no way to count the things that He knows. ⁶ Jehovah takes care of those who are meek, but He humbles the sinners to the ground.

⁷ Take the lead in praising Jehovah! Strum to our God on the harp! ⁸ For it’s He who covered the sky with clouds, and it’s He who made the earth’s rain, to cause the grass to grow on the mountains, and shoots to sprout for men’s needs. ⁹ He provides cattle with the nourishment they need, as well as the young of the crows… to all that are calling upon Him.

¹⁰ He needs not the strength of a horse, nor has He use for the legs of a man. ¹¹ Jehovah thinks well of those fearing Him, and those who put hope in His mercy.

¹² Praise Jehovah, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! ¹³ For it’s He who strengthened the bars of your gates, and it’s He who allowed you to bless all your sons. ¹⁴ It’s He who brings peace to your borders, and to fill you up, the fatness of wheat. ¹⁵ He sends His omens to the earth, and the things that He says happen quickly. ¹⁶ He sends His snow as though it was wool, and He strews the fog as though it were ashes. ¹⁷ He scatters His ice as though it was breadcrumbs, and who will stand in the presence of His chill? ¹⁸ But He’ll send His word and He’ll melt them; He’ll blow with His breath and water will flow.

¹⁹ It is He who gives omens to Jacob… His rules and decisions to Israel. ²⁰ He’s done this for no other nation, nor has He shown them the things He’s decided.

Praise Him!

Psalm 148

Praise Jah. A Psalm of Haggai and ZechariJah.

¹ From the heavens praise Jehovah… praise Him in highest places. ² All His messengers should praise Him; yes praise Him all you His armies! ³ Praise Him O sun and the moon. Praise Him all the stars and the lights. ⁴ Praise Him O heavens of heavens, and the water that’s over the sky.

⁵ Praise the Name Jehovah, because He just spoke and they came to be. He gave the instructions and they were created… ⁶ He established them into the ages, and into the age of the ages. And since He gave the order, they will not pass away.

⁷ Praise Jehovah from earth O you dragons, and all [those in] the abysses. ⁸ Fire, hail, and snow… ice and wind blast; these things go by His word.

⁹ The mountains and hills, the trees bearing fruit, as well as all of the cedars; ¹⁰ all the wild animals and things that just slither, as well as winged creatures with feathers; ¹¹ the kings of the earth and all of their people, the rulers and all of the judges; ¹² young men and virgins, old men and kids; ¹³ let them praise the Name of the Lord! His Name alone is the highest, so hold Him higher than heaven and earth. ¹⁴ For He will raise the trumpets of His people, and this will serve as a hymn to His holy ones… to Israel’s sons, a people who are dear.

Psalm 149

Praise Jah.

¹ Sing a new song to Jehovah; in the gathering of the holy sing His praises. ² Of Him who made them let Israel rejoice, as well as all sons of Zion. Let them shout in joy for their King! ³ And praise His Name you [sacred] dancers… those who [dance] with tambourines, and strum to Him on their lutes.

⁴ Jehovah finds pleasure in His people, and the meek He’ll lift up and save. ⁵ Then the holy will boast in their glory, and shout in joy in their beds.

⁶ There is praising of God in their throats, and double-edged swords in their hands, ⁷ for they’re coming to punish the nations, and to scold people for the bad things they’ve done.

⁸ They’ll tie up their kings and put them in shackles, and put manacles of iron on their nobles. ⁹ They’re coming to execute His written judgments, and to give glory to His holy ones.

Psalm 150

Praise Jah.

¹ In His Holy Place praise our God… throughout space praise His power. ² In all His dominions shout His praises; praise the expanse of His greatness. ³ Praise Him with the sounds of trumpets; praise Him with the lute and the harp. ⁴ Praise Him also with tambourines, [played] by the company of dancers. Praise Him with the strings of the lyre, and with the sounds of woodwinds. ⁵ Praise Him with the clashing of cymbals, and along with the cymbals add shouts. ⁶ May all that breathe praise Jehovah!

Notes

Soul

The Greek word psyche (as in psychology) has been translated many ways, including soul, life, etc. However, psyche actually means something that breathes. It is used in the Bible to describe both breathing animals and breathing humans. So by definition, a soul cannot leave the body, because a soul is what the living body (whether human or animal) is (see Genesis 2:7).

In ancient Greece, philosophers eventually added another meaning to psyche: The inner person (as opposed to the person that others see and come to know). And with time, the pagan religion of Greece started to teach that this inner person is its own entity and can never die (is immortal). Over the centuries, this pagan Greek doctrine thereafter crept into the Christian religions. Please see the link Soul for more history of the word.

However, such Greek philosophical thought never influenced Jesus and his Apostles. So, they consistently used psyche to indicate a living person or animal. Therefore, the later teaching that the soul is immortal stands in direct conflict with Jesus’ promise of a resurrection, because, if a person is immortal (can never die) he/she can never be resurrected (brought back to life).

In addition, the teaching of the immortality of the human soul is totally without support from the Bible. For the word immortal(ity) (Gr: athanasia or undying) is only mentioned in the Bible in two places, and it isn’t used with or applied to the word soul in either case. Both of these scriptures show that immortality is only given by God as a reward for righteousness. And as Ezekiel 18:4 says, ‘The person (gr. psyche or ‘soul’) that is sinning will die (gr. apothaneitai).’

Of course, there are places in the Bible where the word soul means more than just a living, fleshly body. For example, God is recorded to have spoken of ‘My Soul’ in several places. Obviously, God is much more than just a ‘soul’ as most people think of that term, and He surely wasn’t talking about His having a human body. So we must conclude that what He was referring to is His life.

Then there are Jesus’ words found at Matthew 10:28, which read, ‘Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body but can’t kill the person (psyche or soul). Rather, be afraid of him who can destroy both the person (soul) and the body in the garbage dump.’ Here, Jesus is using the word psyche (soul) to refer to the value of life that remains with God until the resurrection. And he obviously isn’t referring the soul as immortal in this instance, because he says God will destroy (gr. apolesai) the [unrighteous] soul or person.

Unfortunately, no single word can be used to translate psyche in every possible Bible application, so various terms are used herein, depending on the circumstances, but always in an attempt to harmonize with the meaning.

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Satan, Slanderer, Lucifer, Beelzebub

It is appropriate that the heavenly name of the great Opposer and Slanderer of God is never given in the Bible. However, several terms (and one mistakenly) have been used to describe him. Here is a list of those descriptions:

· Satan: This is a Hebrew word meaning, opposer, resistor, and a smart person who does things to serve his own interests. It was applied to the Evil One, because of his opposition to God. And so, to keep from misleading people into thinking of it as a name, it is translated as ‘the Opposer’ (not Satan), herein.

· Devil: This is the only Greek word (Diabolos) used in the Bible to describe the evil one. The first part of the word, dia, means through, and bolos means throw (it’s where we get the English words ball and bowl). So, Devil means one who throws through, which amounts to slanderer in Greek, so that’s the way it’s translated herein.

· Lucifer: The name Lucifer is commonly tied to the Biblical Opposer; however, the name doesn’t appear in most versions of the Bible. It does appear once in the King James Version, at Isaiah 14:12, in which the King of Babylon is referred to as Lucifer, Son of the Morning. However, the original Hebrew words were: Helel ben Shahar – Day Star, Son of the Dawn. So, there is no direct link in the Bible between the entity known in Hebrew as Satan and the person who was referred to as Lucifer. This mistranslation was created by Augustine, when he was translating the text in Isaiah from the original Hebrew into Latin.

· BeelZebub: There are eight references in the Bible to this Hebrew noun, and it does refer to the Slanderer. However, once again, this is not a proper name. It appears to be a title. Beel (like Baal) means Lord, and Zebub appears to refer to flies (the insects). So, BeelZebub likely means Lord of Flies.

Is the Opposer (Slanderer or BeelZebub) a real person? All one has to do is look at the titles he was given above to realize that he is. To deny his existence negates the rest of the Bible. For example, when dealing with Adam’s sin, why did God adhere so closely to a law, when other options were available to Him? Why didn’t he just destroy rebellious Adam and create another man?

The fact is, He created men and His messengers with the ability to choose whether to serve Him or not, so none are automatons. And as a man failed in the Paradise of Pleasure, we can assume (and as the Scriptures support) that there were failures (and rebels) in the heavens also. This is the reason why it became necessary to have a law that clearly outlined what rebellion against God constituted, and what the consequences for violating that law would be. It was obviously for the sake of the millions of millions of heavenly spirit (breath) creatures that the issue of rebellion here on the earth had to be resolved by legal means, and in a way that demonstrated the love and loyalty of God’s first-born son, which resulted in the painful need for a ‘ransom’ (Jesus’ death).

And the idea, which some have promoted, that the Slanderer isn’t real, raises other questions. For example; While Jesus was being tempted in the desert, was he simply struggling with the bad within himself rather than against a real, evil personality? If so, we would have to conclude that there was bad in Jesus.

Also, was the battle in heaven (as spoken of at Revelation the Twelfth Chapter) just figurative and not a real war against the Opposer and his messengers? And if so, then there must be ‘evil thoughts’ in heaven, prior to that battle. And, in what sense would ‘the Opposer’ and his ‘messengers’ lose the battle and be confined to the earth? Also, why would internal evil be ‘angry’ in knowing that he just has ‘a short period of time left?’

And lastly, when the Opposer entered God’s presence and spoke to Him (Job the First Chapter), could we assume that this inherent evil was found in God? That isn’t likely.

However, there is some question as to the use of the Greek word Diabolos found at 1 Chronicles 21:1 (in the Greek Septuagint). First, since Diabolos is a Greek word and First Chronicles was written in Hebrew, we would assume that Diabolos (Slanderer) was substituted for the Hebrew word Satan (Opposer). But the text seems to imply that a slanderer (or resistor), not the Slanderer, had come to David. So, we don’t really know if the text implies that the Evil One came to him personally; if it was just an evil spirit that came over him; or if someone bad had urged David to defy God and take a census of Israel.

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Bless or Praise?

This is a tough one, and we won’t say that our position on the translation of this word can’t be changed. The Greek word that we are struggling with is eulogetos. The first part of the word eu, is Greek for good. The last part of the word, logetos, means words (or expressions). So, a literal translation of eulogetos is good words. And our question is: Is this all that a blessing amounts to?

Yes, we know that this word has been translated as bless, blest, and blessing in other Bibles. So why rock the boat? Because these translators have simply found too many errors in many commonly-accepted renderings. And here, for example, if eulogetos is properly translated as blessing each time (which carries the English nuance, ‘causing good things to happen’), then, how can humans ‘bless God?’ We do know that we can praise God, however.

Eulogetos is the word that we derive the English word eulogy from… that is, the kind words that are said of the deceased at a funeral. Such words are never said as a blessing, (it’s a bit late for that); they are said in praise of the deceased individual. However, there are definitely places where eulogetos can’t be translated as praise or praising.

So, perhaps the real meaning is (or is at least is similar to) praise. And when praises come from God, this means blessings to humans.

This isn’t the same word that we have rendered as blest in other portions of this translation (for an example, see Matthew 5:5). The word in question there is makarios, which is rendered as happy in certain other Bibles. However, we believe that blest is the proper way to translate that Greek word.

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The Heavens or Sky, the Earth or the Land?

In both the Ancient Scriptures of Israel (OT) and the Christian Era Scriptures (NT), we find all the realm of creation divided into three entities; the heavens (or sky), the earth (the land or ground), and the seas (the waters). Now, in contemporary English, we understand that there is a difference between the heavens and the sky, the earth and the land (or ground), and the seas and waters. However, in both Hebrew and Greek, these fine distinctions that we accept because of our modern technology, can’t be found. So, Genesis 1:1 could literally be translated as, ‘In the beginning, God created the sky and the ground.’

This is accurate, because it was the view of man from the earth. There was the land that he stood on, the sky above him, and the waters or seas over there. There was no technical understanding of the earth as a planet, because men didn’t view the earth as we do today, as a ball in space… it just wasn’t necessary at the time! However, because of these distinctions that we understand so well today, translators must choose the proper words to provide the right nuances in English, in order for readers to grasp the proper meaning of each text.

This is why you’ll find the Greek word ourano translated as both heaven(s) and sky herein, depending on the context. You’ll also find the Greek words ge and ges translated as earth, ground, or land, depending on the context. So, the symbolic words at 2 Peter 3:5, 6, for example, are translated herein as, ‘The thing that they don’t want to understand is this: That the ancient earth and sky were out of the water, but (in obedience to God’s instructions) they stood together between the waters.’ (For an example of the problems created by the wrong use of the words ge and ges, see the linked document Isaiah 24 - Is It Speaking of Armageddon?).

Notice that the ‘earth and sky’ were located ‘between the water.’ So, although other Bibles translated this verse as speaking of the ‘heavens and earth,’ the reference is to the portion of the heavens that are close to the earth… to the sky. Likewise, at Matthew 5:5, where Jesus spoke of the ‘meek’ as inheriting ‘the earth; since he was talking about people receiving an ‘allotment’ on the earth,’ we have chosen to translate ges as earth, not land or ground. However, the words land and ground are equally correct.

And finally, when it comes to the seas (gr. thalassa), there are already distinctions as to different types of waters in the Greek text. For instance, seas are called thalassa and rivers are called potamos (or ‘flowing’). However, notice (in Revelation 20: 13) how the resurrection of the dead is divided between those who died on land and those who were lost in the water, ‘The sea gave up its dead, death and the grave gave up those dead in them, and they were all judged by the things that they did.’

We again find all three of these realms of creation brought together symbolically at Revelation 21:1, where it says, ‘Then I saw a new earth and sky, because the previous earth and sky had disappeared, as did the sea.’

Also, in the case of where EliJah was taken in a celestial chariot, most people think he was taken to (as their Bibles put it) ‘heaven,’ where he went to live with God. This isn’t true, because King JehoRam later received a letter from Elijah (see 2 Chronicles 21:12). So, God had apparently used the celestial chariot to take him into the sky (the proper translation here), where he was then taken to another place here on the earth. For more information on this, see the linked document, The Hereafter.

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Hades: Hell or the Grave?

The Greek word Hades (they pronounced it hah-des) has been translated both as Hell (which is thought of as a place of torture) and as the Grave in other Bible versions (such as the King James). Since one word can’t mean two very different things, which translation is correct?

Hades (like the English word Hell) actually means the place of the dead. However, as pagan Greek philosophy started to develop and creep into Christianity, the later-day Greek view of Hades (a place of torture) was applied to it. Was this a correct application?

An insight into how the ancient Hebrews and the early Christians understood the word can be gained by looking at how it was applied in the Greek Septuagint translation of the Ancient Scriptures of Israel (the ‘Old Testament’ Bible of Jesus’ day). There, the Hebrew word Sheol is translated into Greek as Hades in every instance; yet in each case, these are obvious references to the grave (the place of the dead), not to a place of conscious torture (see Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10).

Another revealing application of the word Hades is found at Revelation the 20:13. It says there, ‘The sea (gr. he thalassa) gave up its dead, death and the grave (gr. thanatos kai ho hades) gave up those dead in them, and they were all judged by the things that they did.’

So, notice that those who die at sea are differentiated from those who are buried in graves (Hades) and in other places (thanatos). Therefore, Hades is better translated as grave.

In the book of Job, another word that is used once in the Christian-era Scriptures and often translated as Hell, is found in two places. That Greek word is Tartarus, which refers to the place where evil gods or angels are sent. For more information, see the linked document, Is There a Burning Hell?

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Blest or Happy?

There is quite a debate as to whether the Greek word makarios found in many places throughout the Bible should be translated blessed or happy.

Notice that we have chosen to translate it as blest, which is an older spelling of the word blessed, to get rid the affected pronunciation that was likely introduced by early preachers (bless-ed).

According to Zodhiates’ Complete Word Study Dictionary, the word should never translated as happy, because happy is derived from the words happen, happening, or happenstance (luck). His reasoning (which we agree with) is that, when someone suffers for the sake of righteous principles, his/her reward isn’t just happiness (which can come from any source of good luck or fortune), but rather, it is a joy that comes from gaining a better relationship with God.

In other words, there is no exact word in English to use here, but blest seems to be a closer alternative than happy.

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Judgment Day

Throughout the Bible, we read of a Judgment Day. Does this refer to some random time in the future when individuals will meet their own judgment, or to a specific ‘day’ (or period) when all will be judged?

At Matthew 10:15, for example, Jesus spoke of the ‘hemera chriseos’ (Day of Judgment or Crisis) and each of the succeeding references seems to be talking about this same ‘day’ or time. When will that period start? Well, it must be sometime after the ‘great time of difficulty’ (see Matthew 24:21), and following ‘the war of the great day of the Almighty God’ (see Revelation 16:14), because Jesus spoke of people being resurrected when he talked about the Judgment Day.

However, although Psalm 1:1 tells us that the irreverent, impious, or ungodly (gr. asebe) won’t be raised in the Judgment, Paul said (at Acts 24:15) that both the righteous and the unrighteous will be resurrected. So, how can we resolve this discrepancy?

Remember that the word unrighteous doesn’t necessarily refer to those who are deliberately bad, but to those who simply weren’t righteous. On the other hand, the irreverent are those who know of God and simply choose to disobey Him, and apparently, this is the reason why they are found unworthy of a resurrection. For more information, see the linked document What is Righteousness?

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How David Pictured Jesus

You can see proof of the Bible’s inspiration by God it and of some of its prophetic significances in the songs of King David, as found in the book of Psalms. For, there are numerous verses in the Psalms that exactly mirror the words and actions of Jesus, as well as of many of the things that happened to him. Take for example, what David wrote at Psalm 22:16-18, ‘Many dogs now have me surrounded, and the wicked now gather around me. They’re cutting into my hands and my feet; they count all my bones, as they watch me and contemplate. They’ve divided my garments among themselves, and thrown dice for the clothes that I wore.’

Also, notice David’s words at Psalm 22:20, where he said, ‘O rescue my life from the broadsword; and from the hands of dogs, save the one son that You fathered.’

The words found here are exactly the same as those found at Luke 7:12, 8:42, 9:38, John 1:14, 18, 3:16, 18, Hebrews 11:17, and 1 John 4:9. In Greek, the word we have translated as ‘the one son you fathered’ (to maintain the poetic style) is monogenea, or only fathered; and in the Bible it is only used to describe Jesus, who was in fact God’s only fathered (or only generated) son. For more information on the meaning of this word, see the linked Note in John, Only-Generated God, Only-Generated Son.

As you can see, many of the words of this Psalm tell exactly what would happen at the time of Jesus’ death. So, look for the many parallels and prophecies as you read the book of Psalms.

One Psalm in particular appears to have been written by David under inspiration with Jesus in mind… Psalm 110. Jesus applied this scripture to himself at Matthew 22:43-45, as did Peter at Acts 2:35, and as did Paul at 1 Corinthians 15:25 and several times more in Hebrews. So, there is no question that this Psalm specifically referred to the coming of Jesus.

And did you notice that David referred to himself several times as the Christ? You may not have, for we translated the Greek word Christon (Christ) as Anointed in each place where it was found. Yet, David could truly refer to himself as the Christ, because, he (like Jesus) had been anointed to be the king of all Israel by God.

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Space, Expanse, or Firmament?

The Greek word that we have translated as space several times in the First Chapter of Genesis and in the Psalms is stereoma. We are sure that many readers will recognize this as the root word for stereophonic and for stereo (3-D) photography. It means something that has depth, and is often used to describe something solid. This is why stereoma has often been translated as firmament in other Bibles. Firmament is an English word that was likely made up by early people to describe something they didn’t understand, the depth of space. However, the earliest Bible writers used the right word to describe the sky and all that is above it.

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The Meaning of Psalm 45

The wording of this Psalm is particularly difficult and our choice of words could be proven wrong. However, the superscription indicates that this is a psalm about ‘the loved one,’ whom we would assume to be the hoped-for Messiah. And for that reason, we have adapted certain words to meet this understanding. The Psalm obviously isn’t speaking of King David, but of some future great king and his queen.

Notice in verse five, that this person starts out by conquering his enemies, for we read: ‘Sharpen your arrows, O mighty one. For the peoples beneath you must fall; all enemies in the heart of the king.’

Then in verse 6 we read, ‘Your throne, O great one, lasts through ages of ages. And your Kingdom is led with your scepter so straight.’

You will notice that the words we inserted (great one) were translated from the Greek word theos, or god. So the natural assumption is that this king is God. Yet, notice the verse that follows (7), ‘For, you’ve loved righteousness and hated law breaking. And for this, God anointed you with oil, and praised you above all your fellow partakers.’

So, we must assume that theos in this case didn’t refer to The God, but to a great or mighty one who God chooses or anoint; for the word theos in Greek can also refer to one lesser than The God (for more information, see the Note from John 1:1, Is Jesus God?).

Also, notice that this one was chosen over his ‘fellow partakers,’ because he ‘loved righteousness and hated law breaking.’ And this may give us some insight as to why he was chosen by God to be born on earth as a human.

Further insights may be gained by looking at verses 14-16, where we read, ‘Then all the virgins who follow in her train, those nearest to her will be carried to you. They will be carried in gladness and praising, and led to the king’s Holy Abode. Instead of your fathers sons will be born, and on the whole earth you’ll appoint them as rulers.’

This mention of virgins being carried to the king exactly reflects the words of Revelation 14:1-4, where we read of 144,000 ‘virgins’ who will be ‘bought from the earth’ and then taken to heaven as ‘the bride of the Lamb.’

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Zeal

At Psalm 37:8 we read, ‘Stop being angry and abandon your rage. Don’t allow zeal to make you act wicked’ (yes, we know, the word should be wickedly, but this is poetic license). However, those words could also be translated as, ‘Do not allow jealously to cause you to act wickedly,’ because the Greek word zelos can either be translated as zealous or as jealous, depending on the circumstances, for both words mean the same thing. Yet, the two words imply different things in English.

Zeal is usually thought of as something good… something that all Christians should have, as in zeal for God and righteousness. And jealously is thought of as something bad… as wanting something that belongs to someone else. Yet, God may be spoken of as being jealous over His Name and His position as God, so jealously isn’t always a bad thing. And we can have zeal for things that are ours and we are proud of (which is not bad), and be jealous of things that belong to others (which is bad). So, the same Greek word (zelos) may be correctly translated as zeal in one place, and as jealously in another, depending on the context.

Then, is it proper for a man to be jealous of his wife, or for a wife to be jealous of her husband? No, we should never be jealous of each other, but for each other. We shouldn’t want what the other has, but we should have a burning zeal for each other. So, if one has good reason to worry about losing the love of the other, that is zeal. However, if such concern is baseless, that is wicked suspicion, not jealously.

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Dragon

That the Bible speaks about what is translated as dragons several times, raises some interesting questions. The dragon (although supposedly a mythical animal) is one of the world’s most widely recognized creatures. It is highly regarded in the Buddhist religion and is seen in ancient religious carvings from around the world. This testifies that people have believed in the existence of dragons for as far back as human records go. Why?

Note that dragons are thought of as animals with the bodies of snakes (gr. orphis), but they also have feet and legs. However, other Bible references seem to imply that the ancient use of the term dragon (gr. drakonta) and its apparent Hebrew counterparts, leviathan or behemoth, were used to describe any sort of fearsome wild beasts.

What was the dragon? Revelation 12:9 tells us, when it says, ‘So, the huge dragon was thrown out. He is the first snake, the one who is called the Slanderer and Opposer, who is misleading the whole earth.’

So from the above, we see that this vision in Revelation identifies the dragon as ‘the Opposer’ and ‘the Slanderer,’ and it says that he was the first snake, the one who seduced Eve in the ‘Paradise of Delights’ (see Genesis 3:2).

The fact that the dragon is viewed as a snake with legs in religious legends throughout the world, testifies to the fact that people everywhere once believed in the Bible account in Genesis, and they also believed that when God cursed the snake to ‘travel on its chest and belly,’ it lost its legs.

It is interesting that dragons are also part of the folklore of Europe, for who hasn’t heard the story of St. George and the dragon. Yet, if you read that story, you’ll see that it is actually an allegory about man’s fight against sin and the Slanderer. So in that case, it refers to the original dragon, or the first creature of terror.

Notice that faithful Job asked God (at Job 7:12), ‘Am I the sea or the dragon that guards it?’ This view that a dragon guarded the edges of the seas was common throughout Europe until after the Sixteenth Century, for dragons were usually drawn at the edges of maps of seas during that time. Yet, the actual original reference may have been to animals and fish that men feared and didn’t understand (fearsome beasts), not snakes with legs.

However, notice how vividly Job described the Slanderer as the dragon at Job 26:12, 13, where we read, ‘By His strength He has settled the sea in its bed, and in His wisdom He’s filled it with whales. The bolts from the skies stand in awe of Him, and He’s ordered the death of the dragon that rebelled.’

We find a whole Chapter in Job (Chapter 41) that is obviously a description of the evil one, but has gone mistranslated for centuries, simply because its meaning has been misunderstood. Other Bibles speak of a leviathan or a behemoth here, and some of a crocodile. However, in the Septuagint, we find no name at all or any explanation, leaving us to guess what is being described.

It is unusual that some translators have thought that this creature was a crocodile, for crocodile is a Greek word that is easily recognized, since it is spelled almost the same as in English. There is one place where that word is found in the Law of Moses, at Leviticus 11:25, when listing animals that shouldn’t be eaten, and in that place, most Bibles also translate the word crocodile wrong.

Yet, if you read the text of Job 41, you’ll see an obvious reference to a fire-breathing dragon. For notice how verses 18-21 describe it: ‘His sneezing brings about brightness, and his eyes are like the morning star. From out of his mouth comes burning lamps, like the scattered grates of a fire. From out of his nostrils comes the smoke of a furnace, burning with the fire from coals. His life is much like live coals, and flames shoot from his mouth.’

At this point, critics could say the Bible was talking about a mythical dragon, and others would say that God is describing a wild ox. Yet, notice the further description in verses 31, 32: ‘He breaks from the abyss as though a brass cauldron; he thinks of the sea as his own ointment jar, and the abyss of Tartarus as his captive. For, to him the abyss just a promenade.’

If you examine these verses, you’ll see that God is using cryptic text to explain to Job just who is to blame for his problems. Yet, the word Tartarus (the place where evil gods are sent) isn’t found again in the Bible until the reference at 2 Peter 2:4, and the only mention of his coming out of his prison (pit or abyss) is found at Revelation 20:7.

Clearly, this second-to-the-last Chapter in Job, as in any good writing, brings back into play all the characters that the book started with.

Then, why did Jewish scribes and translators have so much trouble understanding this Chapter, that there are obvious deletions? There are four likely reasons:

· They didn’t believe in fire-breathing dragons

· They didn’t know that the Slanderer was the dragon

· They didn’t know of the Slanderer’s position in Tartarus or the pit

· A correct understanding would have linked the Book of Job to the Scriptures of the Christian era.

It is interesting that we again find mention of a dragon at Isaiah 27:1, where we read: ‘In that day, God will bring His great, holy, and strong sword against the dragon – the crooked and fleeing snake – and He will do away with the dragon, the one in the sea.’ This is an obvious reference to the destruction of the same dragon mentioned at Revelation 12:9 above, but it goes unnoticed in Hebrew texts, where the word leviathan is once more misunderstood. Of course, the word dragon is of Greek origin, so its use came after the Hebrew text was written; and regardless of popular (mis)conceptions, leviathan is probably its Hebrew equivalent.

What is particularly interesting about this scripture, is that it speaks of the dragon from the sea in the same words as found at Ezekiel 32:2, where the reference is obviously to the land of Egypt and to its destruction. And you will also find references to the land of Egypt in the song of Isaiah 26, 27. However, this song seems to speak of some future time when God’s people (Israel) are released from a symbolic Egypt at Armageddon, for notice the words of the prophecy found at Isaiah 26:19-21, which say:

‘We will not fall, though others will fall,
But the dead will be raised from their tombs.
Then all on the earth will be joyful,
For, as dew You’ll send them a cure,
While the lands of the godless will fall.

‘Proceed, O my people, to enter your bedrooms…
Go inside and lock your doors,
Then hide in there for a while!
Because this will happen, then that;
And the rage of Jehovah will pass.

‘{Look!} From His Holy Place Jehovah sends rage,
Upon those who live in the land.
Then the ground won’t cover all of the blood,
Nor [the bodies] of those He destroys.’

So, Egypt seems to be used here as a symbol of the godless nations that are destroyed in the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16) and the dragon that represents them, appears to be the Opposer.

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Scroll or Book of Life

The first mention in the Bible of the Scroll of Life can be found in one of the songs of King David (Psalm 69:28), where he wrote, ‘From the Scroll of the Living may their names be erased, and among the righteous may their names not be written.’

So, we must assume that as early as the Eleventh Century B.C.E., God’s faithful worshipers had some concept of a record that God keeps of people who He counts among ‘the living.’ And as David pointed out, their names can be erased from God’s record once they are put there (so much for the concept of once-saved, always-saved).

What is this Scroll, how does a person get his or her name written in it, and what does this mean for them?

Although God surely needs no actual written book to remember His faithful, the phrase ‘the Scroll (or Book) of Life’ is mentioned enough times in the Bible to assume that God does remember or record the names of those righteous who He counts among ‘the living,’ as opposed to those He numbers among ‘the dead.’

Who are ‘the living?’ They are likely the same as the ones who Jesus spoke of at John 5:24, when he said, ‘I tell you the truth; He who hears what I say and believes in the One that sent me, will have life in this age… he won’t have to be judged, for he has crossed over from death to life!’

So, we must assume that some conscious act of faith by each individual causes him or her to cross over ‘from death to life,’ and that is likely the time when a person’s name is written in the Scroll of Life. Then, as Jesus said, ‘He won’t have to be judged’ thereafter.

What is this act of faith? Today, it would surely be the conscious act of choosing to be baptized. However, since baptism wasn’t practiced during the time of David, it appears as though all Israel had their names written in that Scroll when they were born into that nation which was chosen by God; and their names remained there for as long as they were faithful. For, notice how this concept fits into David’s words about their names just being erased, but not recorded.

Then in the Revelation, we read of several ‘scrolls’ being opened and of the ‘dead’ being judged by the things that are written in those scrolls. Who are these ‘dead?’ Well, remember that those whose names are written in the Scroll of Life will not be judged. And that; by following the order of the series of events in the later part of the Revelation, all the resurrections will already have taken place (see Revelation 20:4-6); so these individuals aren’t physically dead any longer, for they are seen to be standing. As the result, this must mean that; although they are no longer literally dead, they are still counted as dead (or dying) and needing to be judged, for their names have yet to be written in the Scroll of Life.

So with this understanding, notice again the exact words of Revelation 20:12: ‘Then I saw the dead – the great and the small – standing before the throne, and several scrolls were opened. Then another scroll was opened, which was the Scroll of Life. And the dead were then judged by the things that were written in the scrolls, according to the things that they did.’

Therefore, we must assume that those who remain faithful worshipers of God have their names permanently sealed in God’s Scroll of Life upon their deaths, and are considered ‘the living’ by Him. Then, when they are resurrected, there is no need for them to be judged thereafter.

As for ‘the dead’ who the Revelation says are ‘judged by the things written in the scrolls,’ this likely means that they too will be resurrected, but they will be judged by the things they do after the resurrection and during the thousand-year period that the Slanderer is bound and in the pit (See Revelation 20:2-6).

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Gods

At Psalm 82:1 we read, ‘Our God has stood in the gathering of gods, and in the midst of the gods He judges.’

This verse – in fact, this entire Chapter – is usually not (or is only vaguely) understood. Who are the ‘gods’ that God meets with and judges? Psalm 82:6 tells us, ‘I said You are gods; of the Most High you’re sons.’ So, these words seem to apply to individuals who were created directly by God, His messengers (angels), and what became known as the demons (those who receive God’s adverse judgment).

The usual explanation of Psalm 82:6 is that God was speaking to humans, for Jesus quoted this scripture at John 10:34-36, when he said, ‘Isn’t it written in your Law, I say that you are gods? If He called those who were spoken against in God’s Word gods (and you can’t void the Scriptures), how can you tell me (one who was made holy and sent into the world by the Father) that I blaspheme because I say I’m God’s Son?’

However, notice that Jesus wasn’t saying that his listeners were gods; he was saying that those with whom God met and judged (as mentioned in the Psalms) were called gods. And these were not only God’s sons (direct creations of God), but they lived in ‘dark places’ or Tartarus (see Psalm 82:5).

God has not come and met with gatherings of men, but He has met with all His spirit creation, as Job 1:6 tells us. So from the context, we must assume that God was calling His wicked spirit sons gods, and He was warning them that when the old ‘earth and sky’ pass away (see 2 Peter 3), they too will be destroyed.

Notice that; at Exodus 7:1 God told Moses, ‘Look! I’ve made you a god to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron is your Prophet.’ So, was Moses literally turned into a god? Yes he was, if you understand what that really means.

Now, we recognize that this concept may be a bit difficult to grasp for people who were raised in a monotheistic society where the word god refers to just one individual. However, remember that the Greeks (whose language we are translating) were a polytheistic society (they worshiped many gods), and to them the word theos (god) referred to a large group of individuals who were more powerful than men. So in Greek, theos just means powerful one, not Creator (which is what the Hebrew name Jehovah implies – He who causes to be).

Also, notice how God again used the word gods at Exodus 22:28 to refer to men. In Greek this verse reads, ‘theous ou logeseis,’ or, ‘You aren’t to speak badly of the gods.’ But if you read the context, you will see that God was telling the Israelites not to speak badly of powerful humans here, not to demon ‘gods.’

Thus, the terms god and gods just refer to the powerful. And even men can be gods… that is, in the truest sense of the word’s meaning (powerful ones). So a word-for-word literal translation of John 1:1 can read, ‘In the beginning was the Word; and the Word was toward the Powerful One; and powerful was the Word.’

Then, why did we use the term God, rather than Powerful One at John 1:1 to describe The God? We’ve left the first term (God) in place, because that’s what people call the Divine One today.

So, is the Logos the God or just god (powerful)? From the context of John 1:1, it appears as though Jesus (the Logos) is theos – powerful – but not The God (gr. ton Theon). For, notice that Jesus described himself as simply God’s son (gr. Uios tou Theou eimi) at John 10:36.

Also, notice that at John 1:1, the words Logos (λογος) and Theon (θεον) are both preceded by the definite article the (ο λογος and τον θεον), except in the case where the Logos is referred to simply as theos (θεος). By employing such wording, John was obviously differentiating Jesus from The God. You can clearly see the differences in the words when you read John 1:1, 2, which says in Greek: ‘Eν αρχη ην ο λογος, και ο λογος ην προς τον θεον, και θεος ην ο λογος. Oυτος ην εν αρχη προς τον θεον.’

That the early Christians didn’t view Jesus as The God is supported by the fact that Christians still worshiped at the Temple of Jehovah in Jerusalem until shortly before it was destroyed in 70-C.E. (see Acts 3:1-3). This is because Christian Jews didn’t consider Christianity to be a new religion with a new god, but rather, that it was the natural outgrowth of the old, and Jesus was the promised ‘Messiah’ or ‘Anointed One of God’ who was to assume ‘the throne of David his father.’

As you can see, Jesus (who is referred to as ‘the Word’ here) was called ‘powerful’ (or godlike), but the following verses show that he wasn’t ‘The powerful one’ (The God). Rather, he was just powerful like (but greater than) Moses. It is the same as in the case of God’s words to Moses at Exodus 7:1, where He said that Moses was to be Pharaoh’s god. Moses was given a position of power over Pharaoh.

For more information, see the document, Who Was Jesus?

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Anointing

At Exodus 29:29 we find that Aaron and his sons were to be ‘anointed’ as Priests to Jehovah, and that this action would make them ‘holy’ or clean. It also signified that they had been chosen to this office by God. And in Leviticus, when we read of the ‘anointed’ Priest, the reference seems to be to one of the Priests who has been chosen for the special office of what later became known as the High Priest.

The Greek word that we have translated as anointed here, is chriseis, which can also be translated as Christ (it’s just a conjugation of Christos), since christ and anointed both come from the same root, which is Greek for olive oil (it may also mean Judged, since the words are similar). So, Jesus wasn’t the first or the only one to be correctly referred to as a christ.

Why olive oil? Because, that substance was traditionally poured over the heads of those whom God chose to be Priests and kings over Israel. However, at least in the case of Aaron and his sons, fragrant herbs were added to the oil to give it a pleasing odor. This is implied at Exodus 25:7, where the Israelites were asked to donate ‘fragrances for anointing oil.’ And we find the exact formula for the anointing oil at Exodus 30:34, where we read that it was to be made from ‘sixteen pounds of choice myrrh flowers, eight pounds of sweet-smelling cinnamon, eight pounds of sweet-smelling calamus, sixteen pounds of cassia (for the Holy Place), and a gallon of olive oil.’

The physical anointing with oil also appears to have pictured their receiving of God’s Holy Breath, making them ‘holy,’ which was an appropriate description for Jesus years later. And remember that both the ‘anointed’ priests and the kings pictured Jesus. So, the term christ is apropos.

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The Day of the Lord

Throughout the Bible, we find references to ‘the Day of Jehovah,’ and ‘the Day of the Lord.’ Are both of these references to the same time, and if so, how do we know?

There is no conflict between the two Days; in fact, they appear to be the same. Notice what we are told in the Revelation, when it is speaking of the beginning of that Day (at Revelation 12:10), ‘This is the moment when the salvation, the power, the Kingdom of our God, and the authorization of his Anointed One began.’

As you can see, the purposes of that Day are tied together. For, the establishment of God’s Kingdom (with the battle in heaven and the ouster of the Opposer and his messengers) and the authorization for Jesus (the Lord) to rule appear to begin at the same time.

So, does the Lord’s Day begin when the things spoken of in the Revelation start to happen? It appears to be so, because it starts out with John’s words (at Revelation 1:10), ‘Through the Breath [of God] I found myself in the Lord’s Day.’

What are some of the features of that Day? Well, they appear to start with the ouster of the Opposer and his messengers from heaven (See Revelation 12), which is followed by the destruction of ‘The Great Babylon’ (See Revelation 17, 18). Then in rapid succession there comes the ‘marriage of the Lamb’ (acceptance of the rest of the Anointed ones to heaven?), the Battle of Armageddon, the abyssing of the Opposer and his messengers, and the resurrection (see Revelation 19, 20). And finally, the Opposer is released for a short time, which precipitates the battle against Gog of Magog , and which is thereafter followed by the descent of ‘New Jerusalem’ to the earth, and the making of the ‘new earth and sky’ (see Revelation 21).

Also, in the prophecy found at Joel 2:1-12, ‘the Day of the Lord’ appears to start with the destruction of Jerusalem by worldly armies (the destruction of The Great Babylon?), and this is followed by the destruction of the worldly armies (see Joel Chapter Three). And in between these two events, we read of the marvelous outpouring of God’s Breath upon His faithful servants (Joel 2:28-32).

Peter wrote in length about this period, and at 2 Peter 3:7 he wrote: ‘What’s [now] in store for the earth and skies is fire, which [will come] during the Judgment Day, when godless men will be destroyed.’ And although many misinterpret these words as describing just the destruction of the wicked at Armageddon, the context shows that he was looking at a much longer period of time, the total ‘Lord’s Day’ or ‘Judgment Day’… the ‘thousand-year’ period spoken of at Revelation Chapter Twenty. For, what he said about the burning of the earth and sky and of the ‘new earth and sky’ corresponds exactly with the end of the thousand years and the promises found at Revelation 21:1.

So, from the periods described in the Revelation; near the end of Jesus’ thousand-year reign, there will be a judgment of the wicked (those who join with Gog of Magog) and they will be destroyed. Then there will be a ‘new earth and a new sky.’ What does that really mean? Perhaps we’ll all have to live to see it to be sure.

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Age, Eternal, Perpetual, Everlasting, Immortal, or Forever?

Two words imply infinite states in the Bible; one is the Greek word athanasia (undying), which is only found in two places, 1 Corinthians 15:53, where it mentions resurrected ones as clothing themselves with immortality, and at 1 Timothy 6:16, where Paul speaks of Jesus as having received it. The other Greek word is aidios, which is used at Romans 1:20 to describe God’s Power and Might as eternal, and at Jude 6 when speaking of the perpetual state of gloomy darkness that rebellious angels have been confined to.

However, the Greek word aionos (pronounced ai-on-oss), which is used throughout the Bible and is often translated as forever and everlasting, is what the English word eon is derived from. It means an indefinite period, and there is no exact English word to translate it. The best equivalents are age(s) or era(s).

Where the plural form of the word (aionion) is used, it refers to a long time… at least multiple generations. However, where the singular form is used (aionos), this appears to mean a much shorter period, such as a lifetime, generation, or era. And where the term ages of the ages is used (such as at Ephesians 3:21), which is usually said in reference to The God, we would assume that this truly means forever.

It is noteworthy that aionos is the word that is used in the Greek Septuagint in place of the Hebrew word ohlam, which is also translated as forever and time indefinite in popular versions of the Ancient Scriptures of Israel. So, this one word (aionos) is translated as forever, everlasting, eternal, system of things, time indefinite, [end of] the world, long ago, from of old, etc. Obviously, something is very wrong here, because the word can’t mean a period having a definite end in one place and infinity in another.

Take for example, the unique way that aionos is used in the question that Jesus’ Apostles asked him, which is found at Matthew 24:3: ‘Tell us; When will these things happen… what will be the signs when you are to arrive and this age will come to its conclusion?’ You can see that the word aionos obviously doesn’t mean forever, everlasting, or eternal in this case, nor did it mean world or system of things. It simply meant the age or, the time before the end would come. And for them, that meant the age when God’s Temple at Jerusalem would be destroyed, because that’s what Jesus had just told them.

The word aionos (which we have translated as age here) is also translated as world (KJ) and as system of things (NW) in other Bibles. However, if the Apostles had meant any of those words, they would have used the Greek word cosmos (world or system of things), not aionos.

The ancient Hebrews viewed everything (and rightly so) as having a beginning and an end. For that reason, you will only find three places in the Bible where words are used that imply no end, and none that imply no beginning. An interesting possible insight on the reason for this can be found at Hebrews 1:10-12, which says: ‘Long ago, O Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth and your hands made the heavens. They will destroy themselves, but you will remain. They will grow old just like clothes do. Then, as [you would do to] a robe, you will wrap them up and repair them like clothes. Yes, you are the one, and your years will never expire.’

So, notice; The Bible shows that even our universe will eventually end and need to be ‘wrapped up and repaired,’ which agrees with the conclusions of modern science.

The problem with most Bible translations is that; when they encounter the word aionos in all its different tenses, they interpret it according to accepted doctrine, not according to the way that Jesus and his disciples used it. So, the common renderings forever, eternal, and everlasting are used even when the word is in its singular forms (aioni, aiona, aionos, aionion, aionian, aionios, aioniou), and this totally distorts the meaning of the text.

Take for example, the scripture at John 5:24, where Jesus said, ‘I tell you the truth; He who hears what I say and believes in the One that sent me, will have life in this age… he won’t have to be judged, for he has crossed over from death to life!’

Most Bibles translate Jesus as saying that those who believe in the One who sent him will have everlasting life (or the equivalent). However, the words that Jesus used there were, zoe aionos (life age – singular), not zoe aionion (life ages – plural).

Notice how Jesus explained the meaning of these words with his next statement, ‘He won’t have to be judged, for has crossed over from death to life.’

So, what Jesus was saying here, wasn’t that they would have everlasting life, but that they in their current lifetime would be considered among the living, not among the dead (see Revelation 20:12).

This doesn’t necessarily mean that they won’t live forever… it’s just that Jesus wasn’t really saying that. What we find (from consideration of the evidence found in the bulk of Jesus’ words about life) is that he never taught the hope of ‘life eternal,’ ‘everlasting life,’ or ‘immortality,’ in those specific words. However, the concept is still there. What he taught was that righteous people will receive ‘life in the age,’ or be considered worthy of (possibly everlasting) life by God during their current lifetimes… that their names would be written in ‘the scroll of life,’ and that they would not have to be judged, but will have already ‘crossed over from death to life,’ as Jesus said at John 5:24.

Yes, we know that this is a difficult concept to understand, but it’s what Jesus actually said.

For more information, select the linked documents, The Hereafter and Does the Bible Promise Everlasting Life?

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Messengers

Most Bible translations render the Greek word aggelos (pronounced ahn-gel-ose – with a hard g) as angel wherever it is found. However, aggelos is just the Greek word for messenger. True, in most cases where the Bible speaks of angels, it is referring to spirit messengers from God. However, this may not be the meaning in every instance, and always translating it as angel may distort what was said in certain instances.

For example, consider the words at Acts 12:15, where Peter had just been released from prison and had appeared at the door of some faithful Christians. In Greek, the latter part of this verse reads, ‘oi de elegon Ho aggelos estin autou’ and is often translated as, ‘They began to say, It is his angel.’

This rendering doesn’t sound reasonable, for it would have been unusual for Christians to assume that an angel from God (who looked like Peter) was standing and knocking at their door. Rather, the rendering we have used herein makes more sense, ‘So they said, It’s his messenger.’

Another good example of why aggelos shouldn’t always be translated as angel can be found at Genesis 32:3, which reads in Greek, ‘Apasteile de Iakob aggelous emprosthen autou pros Hesau ton adelphon autou’ or, ‘Sent of Jacob angels ahead of him toward Esau the brother of him.’ Here Jacob was obviously sending human messengers to his brother, not heavenly ones (angels).

And consider the words at Numbers 20:14, where we read that Moses sent messengers (gr. aggelous – messengers, plural) from Cades to the king of Edom.’ Then in verse 16, it says that ‘Jehovah … heard our voice and sent His messenger (gr. aggelon – messenger, singular) who brought us out of Egypt.’

Obviously, although the same word (with only conjugated variations) is used to speak of two different types of messengers here… those who are human and those who were sent from heaven by God. As the result, most Bibles translate the first instance as messengers, but the second as angel. We have not chosen to make this distinction, and we have rendered the word as messenger or messengers in each instance, because this proper translation of the word provides readers a better look at what position these heavenly sons of God held. For, angel isn’t a heavenly rank, it’s a duty.

Also, consider the words of Haggai 1:13, where we read: ‘Then the Messenger (or angel) of Jehovah, Haggai, one of the messengers (or angels) of Jehovah, said to the people: Jehovah says, I am with you!’

Yet, Haggai was just a man, not a spirit.

Translating aggelos as messenger (when it truly means an ‘angel’) helps to provide readers a better, deeper understanding of the actual role that such spiritual sons of God play in His dealings with mankind. And it helps us to understand why the Bible never speaks of female or baby angels.

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Breath

The Greek word pneuma (as in pneumonia, a breathing disease) means breath or wind – the movement of air. In other Bible translations, this word is often translated as spirit or ghost, as in Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost. However, spirit is just a shortened form of the Latin word spiritu, which just means breath in Latin. And ghost conveys another meaning altogether.

The most common use of the word pneuma in the Bible is to imply an unseen force (such as breath or wind). And the problem with translating it as spirit or ghost is that many people have started believing that the unseen force that is called [God’s] Holy Breath herein, is another God-like person and part of a Divine ‘Trinity.’ This can’t be true, because the only scripture that can be used to support this theory (that is, where the Father, the Son, and the Holy Breath’ are spoken of together) is found at Matthew 28:19, which appears to be spurious (See the Note in Matthew). All other scriptures that are used to prove the Trinity theory fail to mention the Holy Breath as part of that group. And the King James wording of 1 John 5:7 (which was used for years to attempt to prove the Trinity) is also spurious (something that was added to the Bible). So, there are no actual Bible references that mention God’s Holy Breath along with the Father and the Son.

Therefore, to prevent confusion, the Greek word pneuma is frequently translated as breath herein. However, there are exceptions, as in instances where the Bible refers to demons as ‘spirits.’ Translating pneuma as breath in these cases, although correct, might just be confusing. There are also places where we have left pneuma translated as spirit, when the word implies a person's tendency (or spirit). And, since the nuance implied by the word spirit in the English language (an unseen power) is correct, we recently changed back to translating pneuma as spirit in several places, when referring to God’s Holy Spirit. However, recognize that pneuma is often best defined by calling it [God’s] Holy Breath. For an example, see the Note Worshiping God In Spirit and Truth.

Another important use of the word pneuma is in the phrase, ‘Breath of Life.’ This phrase appears to mean more than just breathing, for it seems to refer to the entire mechanics of life itself. It’s the unseen force of life for all creatures… it’s what makes each cell alive. However, nowhere does the Bible describe the ‘pneuma’ as immortal, nor is it the same as the soul (a breathing thing), so it can (figuratively) ‘return to God’ at death,’ because all hope of future life depends on God and His promise of a resurrection.

Note in particular how the term Breath is used at Job 27:3, where Job spoke of God’s Breath or Spirit. For there he asked, ‘Does the Breath of the Divine One remain in my nose?’ As you can see from his application of this word, pneuma obviously referred to God’s Breath, not to a person or to an unseen force. He was talking about that which comes from God and which caused him (Job) to breathe… the Breath of Life.

It is interesting that at Genesis 6:3 God says, ‘I won’t allow My Breath to stay with these men through the age, for they are fleshly.’ In Greek that reads, ‘Ou me katameine to pneuma mou en tois anthropois toutoiseis ton aiona, dia ai einai autous sarka,’ or, ‘Not not should stay the Breath Mine with these men the age through, their being flesh.’

While the words Breath Mine (pneuma mou) here can refer to God’s Holy Breath, it seems more likely that He is referring to the breath of life that He gave to Adam. So it appears as though; what God was saying here is that the breath of life (of the people of that age) would be removed prematurely. However, since God referred to it as ‘My Breath,’ there may be a link implied between God’s Holy Breath and the breath of life.
For more information, see the linked document, ‘The Powers of God’s Holy Spirit.’

However, when Jesus died (as the words recorded at John 19:30 say), ‘he hung his head and gave up the breath’ (gr. kai klinas ten kephalen paredoken to pneuma, or, and inclined his head giving/up the breath). In this case, the obvious reference is to ‘the breath of life,’ or that force which gave him life as a human.

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The Morning Star?

Admittedly, our rendering of Psalm 110:3, ‘For, since the time that you came from the womb, I made you to be the morning star,’ could be wrong, because it differs from the Hebrew text and other translations of the Septuagint. The Greek word in question here is eosphorou, which some translate as dawn. However, others argue that the word should be translated as morning star, and we find this logical, because Jesus referred to himself as the morning star at Revelation 2:28, and again at Revelation 22:16. So, this would explain what scripture he was quoting.

Notice that this rendering is also more in harmony with the principles of Hebrew poetry, for it better reflects the thought of the previous verse, ‘In that mighty day you’ll be the sovereign, and in the brightness of your holy ones you will shine.’ It also just makes more sense than the Hebrew words, ‘in the splendors of holiness from the womb of the dawn,’ which don’t appear to mean very much, and which don’t tie into other prophesies.

Revelation 2:28 says, ‘I’ll also give him the morning star.’ Notice the explanation the Bible itself provides at Revelation 22:16 of who this morning star is; ‘I (Jesus) sent my messenger to you [so you would] bring this testimony against the congregations. I’m the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.’

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Cosmos or World?

In Jesus’ discussion about the sheep and goats found at Matthew 25:34, he said, ‘Then the king will tell those on his right, Come, you who’ve been praised by my Father, inherit the Kingdom that’s been prepared for you from the founding of the world.’

In Greek, the words we have translated as founding of the world are katabole cosmou, or down-throw arrangement. You may recognize that the English word cosmos is a derivative of cosmou. And cosmos (which we pronounce as cas-mose, but the Greeks pronounces as caus-moss) is the word that modern peoples usually use when referring to the universe today (thank you Mr. Sagan). So, why have we translated it as world, and what is meant by the term, founding of the world?

Actually, cosmos is used many times in the Bible and in many different ways. For example, when Paul urged Christian women to dress modestly, he used the word cosmos to describe well-arranged clothing; and arrangement is probably the closest English equivalent of the word. So, it isn’t always translated as world in any Bible.

And although it has been said that the word world doesn’t appear at all in the Hebrew texts of the Ancient Scriptures of Israel (Old Testament), it really does appear there several times in the Greek Septuagint. And the reason why they say that world doesn’t appear there, is because the equivalent Hebrew word is translated (in different Bibles and in different places) as arrangement, ornamentation, honor, delight, universe, earth, army, etc.

Yet, in the Christian Era Scriptures (NT), where cosmos appears several times, it is usually translated as world… such as the world of Noah, the light of the world, the field is the world, etc. So, the term doesn’t seem to apply to the earth, but rather to the arrangement of human society on the earth.

Actually, two different Greek words are often translated as world in the Septuagint, cosmos and oichonomeo; and oichonomeo does appear to refer to the earth, because it means the habitation, or, the place where [man] dwells. So the Septuagint (OT) clearly delineates these two words (that are both commonly translated as world).

But notice how the word cosmos was used by Paul at Romans 5:12, ‘Sin entered the world (cosmos) through one man, and this sin resulted in death. So, death spread to all men and everyone has sinned.’

Thus, it seems likely that the arrangement we call ‘the world’ started around the time of Adam’s sin in Paradise, when man created for himself and all life on earth a new arrangement or set of circumstances (which was something other than what God had planned). We have come to this conclusion based on the many scriptures that refer to the world in a negative context, and the fact that it (the current set of negative circumstances) will soon be done away with.

Yet, the Scriptures also indicate that the present world (arrangement) began after the Downpour of Noah’s day, and Noah inherited the world prior to that time. For, notice what we are told at Hebrews 11:7 ‘Because of his faith, Noah (after being given a divine warning of things he hadn’t seen yet) trusted in God and built a large chest to save his family. And due to this righteous faith, he condemned the world and became its heir.’

Also notice what was said at 2 Peter 2:4, 5, ‘Why, God didn’t spare the messengers who sinned, but by threw them into the dark pits of Tartarus, where they are awaiting His justice. And He didn’t spare the first world. Yet, He guarded Noah (who was a preacher of righteousness) along with seven others, when He brought a downpour on a world of godless people.’

So, apparently there have been two different worlds or arrangements; the one that Noah inherited that started before the Downpour, and the second one that we are now living in, and which the righteous will inherit at its destruction. For, we read at 1 John 2:17, ‘And the world with all its desires is passing away, but the one who does what God wants remains through the age.’ And Romans 4:13 says, ‘Abraham and his seed weren’t given the promise of inheriting the world because of the Law, but because of his righteousness, which came from his faith!’

Thus (from the above), we have concluded that: What Jesus said about the Kingdom having been prepared for the sheep since the founding of the world, must mean that the Kingdom was God’s plan for the righteous since at least the time of the Downpour, and possibly since the time of Adam’s sin in Paradise.

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Captives and Gifts

At Ephesians 4:8, Paul (quoting the words of Psalm 68:18), wrote: ‘He stepped up into the highest place, and carried off captivity as a captive; then he gave gifts to the men.’

This has been a very difficult verse to translate in both places (Ephesians and Psalms), for neither the OT nor the NT texts agree with each other, and neither appears to make any sense in the original language. The Greek text of Ephesians 4:8 literally reads: ‘anabas eis hypsos echmaloteusen aichmalosian kai edokendomata tois anthropois,’ or, ‘through/which he/is/saying Having/stepped/up into height he/led/captive captivity and gave gifts to/the men.’

Whereas the Septuagint shows Psalm 68:18 as saying, ‘You/ascended into the/height you/captured captivity you/received gifts by (or in) men.’

And the Hebrew text at Psalm 68:19 reads literally, ‘you/ascended to/the/height you/led captive you/received gifts from/the man.’

So, you can see that the meanings differ widely, for the NT text says that Jesus GAVE the gifts, while both OT texts say that he RECEIVED the gifts. So it is obvious that there are errors in at least two of the texts, and perhaps in all three. Which is the correct rendering?

Since he had God’s Holy Breath, and because he was using older OT texts than we have today, we are going to trust that Paul came the closest to quoting what the Psalm originally said. And to be sure; when attempting to arrive at the proper translation of a scripture, it helps to take a look at what the preceding and following verses have to say, to see if the words being translated harmonize with the context.

Notice the context of Ephesians 4:8 from the preceding verse (7). There is says: ‘Now, the amount of caring that was shown to each of us depends on how much of the Gift the Anointed One measured out to us.’ So, the scripture Paul quotes in the following verse was used to show that the Gifts were being measured out to men in the congregation. Therefore, from the context, we must assume that the words of Paul are correct, and that Jesus gives Gifts (of the Spirit) to righteous men.

But, what about the words of verse eleven where Paul said, ‘kai autos edoken tous men apostolous tous de prophetas,’ or, ‘and to/them he/gave those indeed apostles, those but prophets,’ or as we rendered it, ‘Then he gave them those who are Apostles, those who are Prophets (etc.)?’ Whereas some Bible translators have assumed that men with special gifts were being given as gifts to the congregations, the rest of the context shows that all in the congregation were given (at least one) of these Gifts, and together they make up one body. Therefore, it appears as though the reference at Ephesians 4:8 is to the Gifts of the Spirit that Jesus gave to the men, which made them Apostles, Prophets, etc. So we have translated the verses as shown above.

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