1 To the chief music-maker. A Psalm. Of David.

2 \140:1\O Lord, take me out of the power of the evil man; keep me safe from the violent man:

3 \140:2\For their hearts are full of evil designs; and they are ever making ready causes of war.

4 \140:3\Their tongues are sharp like the tongue of a snake; the poison of snakes is under their lips. (Selah.)

5 \140:4\O Lord, take me out of the hands of sinners; keep me safe from the violent man: for they are designing my downfall.

6 \140:5\The men of pride have put secret cords for my feet; stretching nets in my way, so that they may take me with their tricks. (Selah.)

7 \140:6\I have said to the Lord, You are my God: give ear, O Lord, to the voice of my prayer.

8 \140:7\O Lord God, the strength of my salvation, you have been a cover over my head in the day of the fight.

9 \140:8\O Lord, give not the wrongdoer his desire; give him no help in his evil designs, or he may be uplifted in pride. (Selah.)

10 \140:9\As for those who come round me, let their heads be covered by the evil of their lips.

11 \140:10\Let burning flames come down on them: let them be put into the fire, and into deep waters, so that they may not get up again.

12 \140:11\Let not a man of evil tongue be safe on earth: let destruction overtake the violent man with blow on blow.

13 \140:12\I am certain that the Lord will take care of the cause of the poor, and of the rights of those who are troubled.

14 \140:13\Truly, the upright will give praise to your name: the holy will have a place in your house.