# verses

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Then let the young woman who pleases the king rule in place of Vashti." This advice <n>{The Heb. lacks advice}</n> pleased the king, and he did this. 


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<n>{Esther's Background}</n> d In Susa the capital there was a Jewish man from the tribe of Benjamin, Jair's son Mordecai, who was a descendant of Kish's son Shimei the descendant of Benjamin. 


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He had been taken into captivity from Jerusalem along with the exiles who had been deported with Jeconiah, king of Judah, whom Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon had taken into exile. <n>{This deportation took place in 597 B.C.}</n> 


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Mordecai <n>{Lit. He}</n> had raised his cousin <n>{Lit. his uncle's daughter}</n> Hadassah, or Esther, <n>{The Heb. name Hadassah means Myrtle ; The Persian name Esther means Star}</n> because she had no father or mother. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was very attractive. When her mother and father died Mordecai had taken her as his daughter. 


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The king's order and edict was proclaimed, and many young women were brought to Susa the capital under the care of Hegai. Esther was taken to the palace into the care of Hegai, who was in charge of the women. 


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The young woman pleased him and gained his favor. He quickly provided her beauty treatments and gave her portions of food to her. He also assigned her seven suitable young women from the palace and transferred her and her young women to the best place in the harem. 


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Esther did not make known her people or heritage <n>{Or her ancestry}</n> because Mordecai had instructed her not to make it known. 


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Every day Mordecai would walk back and forth in front of the court of the harem to find out about Esther's well-being and what was happening to her. 


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<n>{Esther Becomes Queen}</n> d Each young woman's turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus at the end of the twelve month period, at which time she was treated according to the regulations for women. This process <n>{The Heb. lacks process}</n> completed the period of her beauty treatments six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and cosmetics for women. 


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After that the young woman would go in to the king, and whatever she asked for would be given to her to take with her from the harem to the palace. 


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In the evening she would go into the palace <n>{The Heb. lacks the palace}</n> and in the morning she would return to the second harem, into the care of Shaashgaz, the king's eunuch who was in charge of the mistresses. <n>{Or concubines ; i.e. secondary wives}</n> She would not go again to the king unless the king wanted her and she was called for by name. 


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Now Esther was the daughter of Abihail, who had been Mordecai's uncle. Mordecai had taken Esther in as his own <n>{The Heb. lacks own}</n> daughter. When her turn came to go in to the king, she did not want anything except what Hegai, the king's eunuch in charge of the harem, advised. Esther found favor with everyone who saw her. 


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Esther was taken to King Ahasuerus to his royal palace in the tenth month, which is the month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign. 


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The king loved Esther more than any of the other women, so he favored her and was kinder to her than he was to any of the other virgins. He put the royal crown on her head and made her queen in place of Vashti. 


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The king put on a great banquet for all his officials and ministers <n>{Or servants}</n> to honor Esther. He declared a holiday for the provinces and gave generous gifts. <n>{Lit. gave gifts according to the hand of the king}</n> 


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<n>{Mordecai Thwarts a Plot to Kill Ahasuerus}</n> d When the virgins were gathered a second time, Mordecai was sitting in the king's gate. 


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Now Esther had not declared her heritage <n>{Or her ancestry}</n> or her people, just as Mordecai had instructed her, for Esther did what Mordecai told her just as she had done when she was raised by him. 


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At that time when Mordecai was sitting in the king's gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king's eunuchs among those who guarded the threshold, <n>{I.e. the entrance to the restricted areas of the palace}</n> became angry and conspired to assassinate <n>{Lit. to send a hand against}</n> King Ahasuerus. 


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When Mordecai learned about the plot, he told Queen Esther, and she told the king in Mordecai's name. 


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After the matter had been fully investigated, Bigthan and Teresh <n>{Lit. investigated, the two of them}</n> were hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> on a pole, and this was recorded in the Book of the Chronicles in the presence of the king. 


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<n>{Haman is Promoted by Ahasuerus}</n> d Sometime later King Ahasuerus promoted Hammedatha the Agagite's son Haman, elevating him to a position above <n>{Lit. setting his seat above}</n> all the other officials who were with him. 


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All the king's ministers <n>{Or servants}</n> who were in the king's gate would kneel and bow down to Haman, because the king had commanded that Haman <n>{Lit. commanded concerning him that he}</n> be honored in this way. Mordecai, however, would not kneel and would not bow down. 


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The king's ministers <n>{Or servants}</n> who were in the king's gate asked Mordecai, "Why are you disobeying the king's command?" 


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They asked him this day after day, and he would not listen to them, so they told Haman to see whether or not Mordecai would get away with his disobedience, <n>{Lit. would stand}</n> since he also had told them that he was Jewish. 


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When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel and bow down to him, he <n>{Lit. Haman}</n> flew into a rage. 


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Because they had told him who the people of Mordecai were, Haman <n>{Lit. he}</n> found it unacceptable <n>{Lit. contemptible}</n> to kill <n>{Lit. sending a hand against}</n> only Mordecai. So Haman sought to destroy all of Mordecai's people, the Jewish people, who were in all the kingdom of Ahasuerus. 


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<n>{Haman's Plot against the Jewish People}</n> d In the twelfth year of the reign of <n>{The Heb. lacks the reign of}</n> King Ahasuerus, in the first month (the month Nisan), the pur (that is, the lot) was cast in Haman's presence to determine the best day and month to carry out his plot. <n>{Lit. before Haman from day to day and month to month}</n> The lot indicated the twelfth month, the month Adar. <n>{Lit. day and month, the twelfth, the month Adar}</n> 


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Then Haman told King Ahasuerus, "There is a certain people scattered and divided among the people throughout the provinces of your kingdom. Their laws are different than all the other people, they don't obey the king's laws, and it's not in the king's best interest <n>{Lit. there is no advantage for the king}</n> to leave them alone. 


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If the king approves, let it be decreed <n>{Lit. written}</n> that they're to be destroyed, and I'll measure out 10,000 silver talents <n>{I.e. about 750,000 pounds; a talent weighed about 75 pounds, or about 34 kilograms}</n> and bring it to the king's treasury for those who will do the work." 


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The king removed his signet ring from his hand and gave it to Hammedatha the Agagite's son Haman, the enemy of the Jewish people. 


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The king told Haman, "The silver is given to you, along with the people, to do with them as you see fit." 


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The king's scribes were summoned on the thirteenth day of the first month, and all that Haman commanded was written to the regional authorities <n>{Lit. satraps ; Persian government officials similar in authority to a governor}</n> of the king, to the governors who were over each province, and to the officials of each people. This order <n>{The Heb. lacks order}</n> was translated in the name of King Ahasuerus into the language of each province <n>{Lit. Ahasuerus to the people, the script}</n> and bore the seal of the king's signet ring. 


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Letters were sent by couriers to all of the king's provinces to annihilate, to kill, and to destroy all the Jewish people, both young and old, women and children, and to confiscate their goods <n>{Lit. spoil}</n> on a single day the thirteenth day of the twelfth month of Adar. 


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A copy of the letter was to be issued as an edict in every province and published to all the people, telling them <n>{The Heb. lacks telling them}</n> to be ready for that day. 


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The couriers went out, urged on by the king's command, and the edict was issued in Susa the capital. The king and Haman sat down to drink, while the city of Susa was thrown into confusion. 


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<n>{Mordecai Seeks Esther's Help}</n> d When Mordecai learned all that had been done, he tore his garments and clothed himself in sackcloth and ashes. He went into the middle of the city and cried out with a loud and bitter cry. 


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He came as far as <n>{Lit. came to}</n> the front of the king's gate, because no one was allowed to enter the king's gate clothed in sackcloth. 


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In every province where the order of the king and his edict reached, among the Jewish people there was great mourning, fasting, weeping, and lamenting, and many lay down on sackcloth and ashes. 


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When Esther's young women and her eunuchs came and told her, the queen was greatly distressed. She sent clothes for Mordecai to put on so he could take off the sackcloth that he had on, but he would not take them. 


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Then Esther summoned Hathach, one of the king's eunuchs, whom he had assigned to her, and she ordered him to go to Mordecai to find out what was happening and why it was happening. 


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Mordecai told him everything that had happened and the exact amount of money that Haman had said he would pay into the king's treasury in order to destroy the Jewish people. 


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Mordecai <n>{Lit. He}</n> gave Hathach <n>{Lit. him}</n> a copy of the written decree ordering the Jews'destruction that had been issued in Susa. Mordecai <n>{Lit. He}</n> wanted him to show it to Esther, to explain it to her, and then to instruct her to go in to the king to seek his favor and plead with him for her people. 


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Then Esther spoke to Hathach, instructing him <n>{Lit. and she instructed him}</n> to go back <n>{The Heb. lacks to go back}</n> to Mordecai with this message: <n>{The Heb. lacks with this message:}</n> 


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"Every servant of the king and every person in the king's provinces knows that for any man or woman who goes to the king in the inner court without being summoned there is only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> one law that he be put to death unless the king holds out the golden scepter to him. Only <n>{The Heb. lacks Only}</n> then he will live. For these last <n>{The Heb. lacks last}</n> 30 days I've not been summoned to come to the king." 


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Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, "Don't suppose that because you are in the palace, you will escape any more than the other Jewish people. <n>{Lit. than all the Jews}</n> 


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Indeed, if you are silent at this time, relief and deliverance will come to the Jewish people from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. Who knows but that you were brought to the kingdom for a time like this?" 


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"Go and gather all the Jewish people who are in Susa and fast for me. Don't eat or drink for three days, night or day. Both I and my young women will also fast in the same way, and then I'll go in to the king, even though it's against the law. And if I perish, I perish." 


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<n>{Esther Goes before the King}</n> d On the third day, Esther put on her royal attire and stood in the inner courtyard of the palace in front of the king's quarters. <n>{Or house}</n> The king was sitting on his royal throne in the throne room, opposite the entrance to the building. 


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When the king saw Queen Esther standing in the courtyard, she won his favor, and the king extended to Esther the gold scepter that he was holding. Esther approached and touched the top of the scepter. 


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The king asked her, "What do you want, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even if it's half of the kingdom, it will be given to you." 


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Esther replied, "If it pleases the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet I've prepared for him." 


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The king responded, "Bring Haman quickly so we may do what Esther has requested." So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared. 


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While they were drinking wine, <n>{Lit. at the banquet of wine}</n> the king asked Esther, "What's your petition? It will be given to you. What's your request? Up to half of the kingdom, and it will be done." 


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If I've found favor with the king and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and to honor my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I'll prepare for them tomorrow, and then I'll do what the king has said." 


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<n>{Haman's Plan to Kill Mordecai}</n> d Haman went out that day pleased and happy, but when Haman saw Mordecai in the king's gate, and that he did not stand up and tremble in his presence, Haman was furious with Mordecai. 


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Haman restrained himself, went to his house, and sent for <n>{Lit. sent and brought}</n> his friends and his wife Zeresh. 


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Then Haman told them about his splendid wealth, the number <n>{Lit. multitude}</n> of his sons, all the ways the king had honored <n>{Or promoted}</n> him, and that he had promoted him above all the other officials and ministers <n>{Or servants}</n> of the king. 


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Then Haman said, "Even Queen Esther brought no one except me with the king to the banquet that she held. Furthermore, I (along with the king) have also been invited by her tomorrow. 


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Then Zeresh his wife and all his friends said, "Have a pole made 75 feet <n>{Lit. 50 cubits ; or about 23 meters}</n> high, and then in the morning speak to the king and have Mordecai hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> on it. Then go with the king to the banquet happy." This advice pleased Haman, and he had the pole made. 


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<n>{Haman's Plan Begins to Unravel}</n> d That night the king could not sleep, so he gave instructions to bring the book of records, the chronicles, and they were read to the king. 


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It was found recorded there that Mordecai had reported about Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's eunuchs who guarded the entrance to the restricted areas of the palace, <n>{Lit. guarded the threshold}</n> and that they had conspired to assassinate <n>{Lit. to send a hand against}</n> King Ahasuerus. 


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So the king asked, "What honor and distinction was bestowed on Mordecai for this?" The young men who served the king answered, "Nothing was done for him." 


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The king said, "Who is in the courtyard?" Now Haman had just entered the outer courtyard of the palace to speak to the king about having Mordecai hanged on the pole he had set up. 


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The king's young men told him, "Look, Haman is standing in the courtyard." The king said, "Let him come in." 


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After Haman came in, the king asked him, "What should be done for the man whom the king desires to honor?" Haman told himself, "Whom would the king desire to honor more than me?" 


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let them bring royal robes that the king has worn and a horse on which the king has ridden, with a royal crown placed on its head. 


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Then give the robes and the horse to one of the king's most noble officials. Let them put the robes on the man whom the king desires to honor, and let them put him on the horse in the main <n>{The Heb. lacks main}</n> square of the city. Then let them announce in front of him, «This is what is done for the man whom the king desires to honor.»" 


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Then the king told Haman, "Quick! Take the clothes and the horse just as you have suggested and do this for Mordecai the Jew who sits in the king's gate. And don't let anything you've suggested fall through the cracks." <n>{The Heb. lacks through the cracks}</n> 


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So Haman took the clothes and the horse, dressed Mordecai, and put him on the horse in the main <n>{The Heb. lacks main}</n> square of the city. He cried out in front of him, "This is what is done for the man whom the king desires to honor." 


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Then Mordecai returned to the king's gate, while Haman hurried to his house, mourning and hiding his face. <n>{Lit. and covering his head}</n> 


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Haman told his wife Zeresh and all his friends everything that had happened to him. His wise friends and his wife Zeresh told him, "If Mordecai, before whom you have begun to fall, is one of the Jewish people, <n>{Lit. of the seed of the Jews}</n> you won't prevail against him. Instead, you will surely fall before him." 


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While they were still talking to him, the king's eunuchs arrived, and they quickly took him to the banquet that Esther had prepared. 


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On the second day the king again told Esther as they drank wine, "What's your petition, Queen Esther? It will be given to you. What's your request? Up to half of the kingdom, and it will be done." 


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Queen Esther answered: "If I've found favor with you, your majesty, and if it seems good to the king, let my life be given to me as my petition and my people as my request. 


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Indeed, I and my people have been sold to be annihilated, killed, and destroyed. If we had just been sold as male and female slaves, I would have kept quiet, because the trouble wouldn't have been sufficient to bother the king." <n>{Or no enemy could compensate for this damage to the king}</n> 


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Then King Ahasuerus asked Queen Esther, "Who is this, and where is the person who would dare <n>{Lit. whose heart has filled him}</n> do this?" 


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Esther replied, "An adversary and an enemy it's this wicked Haman!" So Haman was terrified before the king and the queen. 


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The king got up from the banquet in anger and went out to the palace garden, while Haman stood there begging Queen Esther to spare his life, <n>{Lit. the queen for his life}</n> because he realized that the king intended to harm him. <n>{Lit. to bring evil on him}</n> 


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When the king returned to the banquet hall from the palace garden, Haman was prostrate on the couch where Esther was. The king asked, "Will this man <n>{Lit. he}</n> even assault the queen with me in the house?" The king had no sooner spoken than they covered Haman's face. 


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Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs attending the king, observed, "Look there! A pole is standing 75 feet high <n>{Lit. 50 cubits ; or about 23 meters}</n> at Haman's house that he prepared for Mordecai, whose report benefitted <n>{Lit. who spoke good for}</n> the king!" The king said, "Hang <n>{Or Impale}</n> him on it." 


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So they hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> Haman on the pole he had set up for Mordecai, and then the king's anger subsided. 


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<n>{The Promotion of Mordecai}</n> d That day King Ahasuerus gave Queen Esther the property <n>{Lit. house}</n> of Haman, the enemy of the Jewish people, and Mordecai came into the king's presence because Esther had told him how Mordecai <n>{Lit. he}</n> was related to her. 


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The king took off his signet ring that he had taken from Haman and gave it to Mordecai. Esther then put Mordecai in charge of Haman's property. <n>{Lit. house}</n> 


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<n>{Esther Asks that the Jewish People be Spared}</n> d Then Esther spoke to the king again and fell at his feet. She wept and pleaded with him for mercy to overturn the evil plan devised <n>{The Heb. lacks devised}</n> by Haman the Agagite and his plot against the Jewish people. 


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She said, "If it pleases the king, and if I've found favor with him, and if the matter is proper in the king's opinion, and if I'm pleasing to the king, let an order be issued <n>{Lit. let it be written}</n> revoking the letters devised by Hammedatha the Agagite's son Haman, which ordered <n>{Lit. were written}</n> the destruction of the Jewish people throughout the king's provinces. 


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Indeed, how can I bear to see this disaster happen to my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my kinsmen?" 


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King Ahasuerus told Queen Esther and Mordecai the Jew, "Look, I've given Haman's property <n>{Lit. house}</n> to Esther, and they have hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> him on the pole because he tried to harm <n>{Lit. sent his hand against}</n> the Jewish people. 


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Now, in the name of the king, you write what seems good to you concerning the Jewish people, and seal it with the king's signet ring, for a document written in the king's name and sealed with the king's signet ring cannot be revoked." 


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The king's scribes were summoned at that time, on the twenty-third day of the third month, which is the month Sivan, and everything that Mordecai commanded the Jewish people, the regional authorities, <n>{Lit. satraps ; Persian government officials similar in authority to a governor}</n> the governors, and the provincial officials of the 127 provinces from India to Cush <n>{I.e. the upper Nile region}</n> was written down for each province according to its script, for each people according to their language, and for the Jewish people according to their script and language. 


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He wrote in the name of King Ahasuerus and sealed it with the king's signet ring. He sent the letters by couriers on horseback, riding steeds especially bred for the king. <n>{Or sired by the royal stud ; i.e. the horses were strong and fast and specially bred for the task}</n> 


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What the king granted the Jewish people in every town was the right <n>{The Heb. lacks the right}</n> to assemble and defend themselves, <n>{Lit. and stand; or their lives}</n> to annihilate, kill, and destroy every armed force of a people or a province that was hostile to them, including children and women, and to plunder their property. <n>{Lit. spoil}</n> 


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Throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, the one day for the Jewish people to do this was the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar. 


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A copy of the document was to be issued as law in each and every province and published for all people, indicating that the Jewish people were to be ready to take vengeance on their enemies on that day. 


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The couriers, mounted on the royal steeds, left quickly, urged on by the king's command. The edict was also issued in Susa the capital. 


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<n>{The Jewish People Celebrate the King's Edict}</n> d Mordecai left the king's presence in royal robes of blue and white, wearing a large golden crown and a purple robe made of fine linen; and the city of Susa shouted with joy. 


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In each and every province, and in each and every city, in the places where the king's order and edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jewish people, along with a festival and a holiday. Many of the people of the land became <n>{Or professed to be}</n> Jews, because they had come to fear the Jewish people. 


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<n>{The Jewish People Defeat Their Enemies}</n> d On the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, when the king's order and edict was about to be carried out, on the day when the enemies of the Jewish people expected to prevail over them, things were turned around so that the Jewish people themselves prevailed over those who hated them. 


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The Jewish people assembled in their towns throughout the provinces of King Ahasuerus to strike out against those who intended to harm them, and no one could oppose them because all the people had come to fear the Jews. <n>{Lit. them}</n> 


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All the provincial officials, the regional authorities, <n>{Lit. satraps ; Persian government officials similar in authority to a governor}</n> the governors, and those doing the king's work supported the Jewish people because the fear of Mordecai had come over <n>{Lit. fallen on}</n> them. 


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Indeed, Mordecai was a powerful <n>{Or great}</n> official in the palace and his fame spread throughout the provinces. Indeed, the man Mordecai grew more and more powerful. <n>{Or greater and greater}</n> 


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The Jewish people struck down all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them, and they did with their enemies as they pleased. 


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the ten sons of Hammedatha's son Haman, the enemy of the Jewish people, but they did not lay their hands on the spoils. 


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The king told Queen Esther, "In Susa the capital the Jewish people have killed and destroyed 500 people, including Haman's ten sons. What have they done in the rest of the king's provinces? Now what's your petition? It will be given to you. What's your further request? It will be done." 


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Then Esther said, "If it pleases the king, let it also be granted to the Jewish people in Susa to do tomorrow what the edict allowed them to do today, <n>{Lit. according to today's edict}</n> and let Haman's ten sons be hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> on poles." 


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The king said, "Let this be done." So an edict was issued in Susa, and Haman's ten sons were hanged <n>{Or impaled}</n> on poles. 


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The Jewish people in Susa assembled again on that day, the fourteenth of Adar, and they killed 300 people in Susa, but they did not lay their hands on the spoils. 


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<n>{The Festival of Purim is Celebrated}</n> d The rest of the Jewish people in the king's provinces assembled to defend <n>{Lit. stand; or their lives}</n> themselves, and they gained relief from their enemies, killing 75,000 of those who hated them. But they did not lay their hands on the spoils. 


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They did this on the thirteenth day of Adar and rested on the fourteenth day, making it a day of feasting and joy. 


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The Jewish people in Susa assembled on the thirteenth day and again on the fourteenth, and then rested on the fifteenth day and made it a day of feasting and joy. 


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Therefore the Jewish people in the rural areas who live in unwalled towns make the fourteenth day of the month Adar a holiday for joy and feasting, and people send presents <n>{Or portions of food}</n> to one another. 


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<n>{Official Instructions for Celebrating Purim}</n> d Mordecai wrote these instructions and sent letters to all the Jewish people in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, both near and far, 


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establishing that they should celebrate the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month Adar every year, 


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as the days on which the Jewish people enjoyed relief <n>{Or the Jews rested}</n> from their enemies. It was a month when things turned around for them, from sorrow to joy and from mourning to a holiday. They were to celebrate these days as days of feasting and joy, and they were to send presents <n>{Or portions of food}</n> to one another and gifts to the poor. 


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So the Jewish people made a tradition <n>{Lit. the Jews accepted}</n> out of what they had begun to do and of what Mordecai had written to them, 


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since Hammedatha's son Haman, the enemy of the Jewish people, had plotted against the Jewish people to destroy them, and he had cast the pur (that is, the lot) to determine when <n>{The Heb. lacks to determine when}</n> to confuse and destroy them. 


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But when Esther came before the king, he ordered through a letter that the evil plot that Haman <n>{Lit. he}</n> had devised against the Jewish people be rescinded, <n>{Lit. be turned back on his own head}</n> and that he and his sons be hanged on poles. 


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Therefore these days were called Purim , from the word pur . Because of all that was written in this letter, because of what they experienced in this matter, and because of what happened to them, 


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the Jewish people established this celebration, making it a tradition <n>{Lit. people accepted it}</n> for themselves, for their descendants, and for all who joined with them <n>{I.e. those who became Jews}</n> that they should not fail to observe these two days each year, based on the written instructions, and at the prescribed time. 


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These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by each family in every province and town. These days of Purim should not be neglected by <n>{Lit. should not pass by}</n> the Jewish people, and that they should not be forgotten by their descendants. 


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<n>{Queen Esther Confirms the Instructions for Purim}</n> d Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew wrote with full authority confirming this second letter about Purim. 


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Letters containing wishes for peace and stability were sent to all the Jewish people, to the 127 provinces of Ahasuerus'kingdom, 


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establishing these days of Purim at the prescribed time, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established, and just as the Jewish people <n>{Lit. they}</n> had established for themselves and for their descendants. The letter included instructions for their fasting <n>{Lit. descendants, instructions for their fasting}</n> and lamentations. 


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The order of Esther established these instructions for Purim, and it was officially recorded. <n>{Lit. recorded in a record}</n> 


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<n>{Other Things King Ahasuerus Did}</n> d King Ahasuerus imposed tribute <n>{I.e. a kind of tax}</n> on the land and on the islands of the sea. 


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Now as to all the powerful and great deeds of Ahasuerus, along with an exact statement about the high position <n>{Lit. greatness}</n> of Mordecai to which the king promoted him, these things are written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Media and Persia, are they not? 


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Indeed, Mordecai the Jew was second in authority only <n>{Lit. second to King}</n> to King Ahasuerus and was a powerful official <n>{Or great}</n> among the Jewish people. Mordecai <n>{Lit. He}</n> was accepted favorably by his many kinsmen, and he sought the good of his countrymen and spoke out for the welfare of all his people. <n>{Lit. his see}</n> 


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<n>{ The Book of}</n> <n>{ Job}</n> d <n>{Job's Faithfulness}</n> d There once was a man in the land of Uz <n>{I.e. a city east of Israel in Arabia; the name means Wooded}</n> named Job. The man was blameless as well as upright. He feared God and kept away from evil. 


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His livestock included 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 teams <n>{Or pairs}</n> of oxen, 500 female donkeys, and many servants. Indeed, the man's stature greatly exceeded that of many people who lived in the East. 


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His sons used to travel to each other's houses in turn on a regular schedule and hold festivals, inviting their three sisters to celebrate <n>{Lit. to eat and drink}</n> with them. 


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When their time of feasting had concluded, Job would rise early in the morning to send for them <n>{The Heb. lacks for them}</n> and consecrate them to God. <n>{The Heb. lacks to God}</n> He would offer a burnt offering for each one, <n>{Lit. offering according to their number}</n> because Job thought, "Perhaps my children sinned by cursing God in their hearts." Job did this time and again. <n>{Lit. all the days}</n> 


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<n>{Satan's First Attack on Job}</n> d One day, divine beings <n>{Lit. day, sons of God}</n> presented themselves to the Lord , and Satan <n>{The Heb. name Satan means The Opponent or The Accuser ; and so throughout the book}</n> accompanied them. 


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The Lord asked Satan, "Where have you come from?" In response, Satan answered the Lord , "From wandering all over the earth and walking back and forth throughout it." 


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Then the Lord asked Satan, "Have you considered <n>{Lit. you set your heart over}</n> my servant Job? There is no one like him on earth. The man is blameless as well as upright. He fears God and keeps away from evil." 


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Haven't you surrounded him with a fence on all sides, around his house, and around all that he owns? You have blessed everything he puts his hands on and you have increased his livestock in the land. 


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Then the Lord told Satan, "Very well then, everything he owns is under your control, <n>{Lit. hand}</n> only you may not extend your hand against him." So Satan left the Lord's presence. 


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Some time later, when his children <n>{Lit. his sons and daughters}</n> were celebrating <n>{Lit. were eating and drinking wine}</n> in their oldest <n>{Lit. their firstborn}</n> brother's house, 


text:
a messenger approached Job and said, "The oxen were plowing and the female donkeys were grazing nearby 


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when the Sabeans attacked, captured the servants, and killed them with swords. I alone escaped to tell you!" 


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While this messenger <n>{The Heb. lacks messenger}</n> was still speaking, another <n>{Lit. this}</n> came and announced, "A lightning storm struck <n>{Lit. Fire of God fell from heaven}</n> and incinerated the flock and the servants while they were eating. I alone escaped to tell you!" 


text:
While this messenger <n>{The Heb. lacks messenger}</n> was still speaking, another <n>{Lit. this}</n> came and announced, "The Chaldeans formed three companies, raided the camels, captured the servants, and killed them with swords. Only I alone escaped to tell you." 


text:
While this messenger <n>{The Heb. lacks messenger}</n> was still speaking, another <n>{Lit. this}</n> came and announced, "Your children were celebrating <n>{Lit. eating and drinking wine}</n> in their oldest <n>{Lit. their firstborn}</n> brother's house 


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when a strong wind came straight out of the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on the young people, and they died. I alone escaped to tell you!" 


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<n>{Job Blesses God Despite the Catastrophe}</n> d Then Job stood up, tore his robe, shaved his head, fell to the ground, bowed very low, 


text:
and exclaimed: "I left my mother's womb naked, and I will return to God naked. The Lord has given, and the Lord has taken. May the name of the Lord be blessed." 


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<n>{Satan's Second Attack on Job}</n> d Some time later, divine beings again <n>{Lit. later, the sons of God}</n> presented themselves to the Lord, and Satan accompanied them to present himself to the Lord . 


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The Lord asked Satan, "Where have you come from?" In response, Satan told the Lord , "From wandering all over the earth and walking back and forth throughout it." 


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The Lord asked Satan, "Have you considered <n>{Lit. you set your heart over}</n> my servant Job? There is no one like him on earth. The man is blameless as well as upright. He fears God and keeps away from evil. He remains firm in his integrity, even though you have been urging me to overwhelm him without cause." 


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Satan answered the Lord , "Skin for skin! The man will give up everything that he owns in exchange for his health. <n>{Lit. his soul}</n> 


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However, stretch out your hand <n>{Or send judgment}</n> and strike his bones and flesh, and he'll curse you to your face, won't he?" 


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Then the Lord told Satan, "Very well then, he is under your control. <n>{Lit. hand}</n> Just preserve his life." <n>{Lit. his soul}</n> 


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So Satan left the Lord's presence and struck Job with terrible boils from the sole of his feet to the top of his head. 


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Job <n>{Lit. He}</n> took a broken piece of pottery to scrape himself while sitting among the ashes. 


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<n>{Job Refuses to Curse God}</n> d Then his wife told him, "Do you remain firm in your integrity? Curse God and die!" 


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But he replied to her, "You're talking like foolish women do. Are we to accept <n>{Or receive}</n> what is good from God but not tragedy?" Throughout all of this, Job did not sin by what he said. <n>{Lit. by his lips}</n> 


text:
<n>{Job's Friends Visit}</n> d When Job's three friends heard all these tragedies that happened to him, they each traveled from their home towns <n>{Lit. from his place}</n> to visit him. Eliphaz came from Teman, <n>{Lit. Eliphaz the Temanite ; i.e. from Teman in Edom, and so throughout the book}</n> Bildad came from Shuah, <n>{Lit. Bildad the Shuhite ; i.e. from Shuah, and so throughout the book}</n> and Zophar came from Naamath. <n>{Lit. Zophar the Naamathite ; i.e. from Naamath in Arabia, and so throughout the book}</n> They met together and went to console and comfort him. 


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Observing him from a distance, at first they didn't even recognize him, so they raised their voices and burst into tears. They each ripped their robes, threw ashes into the air on their heads, 


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and sat with Job <n>{Lit. him}</n> on the ground for a full week <n>{Lit. for seven days and seven nights}</n> without saying a word, since they could see the great extent of his anguish. 


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<n>{Job Laments the Day He was Born}</n> d After this, Job spoke up solemnly, cursing <n>{Or Job opened his mouth and cursed}</n> the day he was born. <n>{The Heb. lacks he was born}</n> 


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"Let the day when I was born be annihilated, along with the night when it was announced, «It's a boy!'<n>{Lit. A man has been conceived.}</n> 


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Let darkness and deep gloom reclaim it; let clouds settle down on it; let blackness in mid-day terrify it. 


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Let darkness carry that night away; let it not take its place joyfully among the days of the year; let it not be entered into the calendar. <n>{Lit. entered among the numbering of months}</n> 


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Let whoever curses days curse it those who are ready to awaken monsters. <n>{Lit. Leviathan ; i.e. an ancient sea creature}</n> 


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Let the stars of its evening twilight be dark; let it hope for light but let there be none; let it not see the breaking rays <n>{Lit. the eyelashes}</n> of the dawn. 


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"For that night <n>{Lit. It}</n> refused to shut the doors of my mother's <n>{The Heb. lacks mother's}</n> womb; it failed to keep me from seeing this trouble. 


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Why was there a lap <n>{Lit. Why were there knees}</n> to hold me, and why were there breasts to nurse me? 


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along with kings and counselors of the earth, who used to build for themselves what are now only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> ruins, 


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or princes who amassed <n>{The Heb. lacks who amassed}</n> gold for themselves, and who kept filling their houses with silver. 


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"Or why was I not buried <n>{Lit. hidden}</n> like a stillborn child, <n>{Or miscarriage}</n> like babies <n>{Lit. children}</n> who never saw the light? 


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In that place, the wicked stop causing trouble, and there, those whose strength is exhausted are at rest. 


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In that place, those who once were prisoners will be at ease together; they won't hear the voice of oppressors. 


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To those who are longing for death even though it does not come? To those who search for it more than for hidden treasure? 


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To those who are happy beyond measure <n>{Lit. happy with great rejoicing}</n> when they reach their graves? 


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To the formerly successful <n>{Lit. the valiant}</n> man who has lost his way in life because <n>{Lit. and}</n> God has fenced him in? 


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"As far as I'm concerned, my food comes to me in the form of sighs, and my cries of anguish pour out like water. 


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For the dreaded thing that I feared has happened to me, what caused me to worry has engulfed <n>{Lit. come}</n> me. 


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"Will you get offended if somebody tries to talk to you? Who can keep from speaking at a time like this? <n>{The Heb. lacks at a time like this}</n> 


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Look! You've admonished many people, <n>{The Heb. lacks people}</n> and you've strengthened feeble hands. 


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"But now it's your turn, and you're the one who is worn out! <n>{Or impatient}</n> Now it's striking you, and you're dismayed! 


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"Your fear of God has been your confidence, hasn't it? The integrity of your life has been your hope, hasn't it? 


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Now please think: Who has ever perished when they're innocent? Where have the upright been destroyed? 


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It's been my experience that those who plow the soil of <n>{The Heb. lacks the soil of}</n> iniquity and those who sow the seed of <n>{The Heb. lacks the seed of}</n> trouble will reap their harvest! <n>{The Heb. lacks their harvest}</n> 


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They perish by the breath of God; they are consumed by the storm that is <n>{Or the breath of}</n> his anger. <n>{Or anger}</n> 


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"The lioness may roar, and the lion cub may growl; but even the ivory teeth of the full grown lion are broken. 


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A fear fell upon me, along with trembling that caused all my bones to shake in terror. <n>{Or dread}</n> 


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It remained standing, but I couldn't recognize its appearance. A form appeared before my eyes; At first there was <n>{The Heb. lacks At first there was}</n> silence, and then this voice: 


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«Can a mortal person <n>{Lit. a man}</n> be more righteous than God? Or can the purity of the valiant exceed that of his maker? '<n>{The quotation possibly continues through v 21.}</n> 


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"Indeed, since he doesn't trust his servants, <n>{Cf. Job 15:15}</n> since he charges <n>{Or lay upon}</n> his angels with error, 


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how much less confidence <n>{The Heb. lacks confidence}</n> does he have in those who dwell in houses of clay; who were formed from a foundation in dust and can perish <n>{Lit. can crush them}</n> like a moth? 


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Their wealth <n>{Or remnants , left over}</n> perishes with them, doesn't it? They die, and do so without having wisdom, don't they?" 


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<n>{Eliphaz: God Blesses those who Seek Him}</n> d "Cry out, won't you! Is there anyone who will answer you? To whom will you turn among the holy ones? 


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"I myself saw a fool becoming established, but I suddenly cursed where he lived. <n>{Or dwelling place}</n> 


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His children are far from deliverance; they'll be maltreated before they leave home, <n>{Lit. be crushed in the gate}</n> with no one to rescue them. 


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Then the hungry will devour his harvest, snatching it even from the midst of thorns, while the thirsty covet their wealth. 


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<n>{God Can be Trusted in Adversity}</n> d "Now as for me, I would seek God if I were you; <n>{The Heb. lacks if I were you}</n> I would commit my case to God. 


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So he delivers from the sword of their mouth the poor from the power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of the mighty. 


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"Indeed, how blessed is the person whom God reproves! So never disrespect the discipline of the Almighty, 


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You'll be protected from the accusing <n>{Lit. lash of the}</n> tongue; you need not fear destruction when it heads your way. 


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For you'll have a pact <n>{Or be in league}</n> with the stones in the field; and the beasts of the field will be at peace with you. 


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You'll know that your home <n>{Lit. tent}</n> is secure; when you search your possessions, and nothing will be missing. 


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You'll know that you'll have many children; and that your offspring will be like the grass of the earth. 


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You'll go to your grave at a ripe old age; like a stack of grain that's harvested at just the right time. 


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"Look! We have thought all this through, and what we've said is true; <n>{Lit. and thus it is so}</n> So please listen and learn for your own good!" 


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It would weigh more than the sand on the seashore! <n>{Lit. sea}</n> Here's why I've talked so rashly: 


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"The arrows of the Almighty have pierced me; my spirit absorbs <n>{Lit. drinks}</n> their poison; <n>{Lit. heat}</n> God's terrors have been arranged just for me! 


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"Will the wild donkey bray from hunger <n>{The Heb. lacks from hunger}</n> if fresh grass is beside him? Will the ox low from distress <n>{The Heb. lacks from distress}</n> if it is near its feed? 


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<n>{Job Desires Death}</n> d "Who will grant my wish? <n>{Or Oh, that I might have my request;}</n> I wish God would grant what I'm hoping for: 


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that God would just be willing <n>{Lit. pleased}</n> to crush me; that he would let loose <n>{Lit. loose his hand}</n> and eliminate me! 


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At least I could still take comfort and rejoice in unceasing anguish, for I didn't conceal what the Holy One has to say. 


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<n>{Job Accuses His Friends of Treachery}</n> d The friend shows gracious love for his friend, even if he has forsaken the fear of the Almighty. 


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But my brothers have acted treacherously like a cascading river, like torrential rivers that overflow. 


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But then the snow melts, and they disappear; when warmed, they evaporate from their stream beds. <n>{Lit. their place}</n> 


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For all their expectations, they are doomed to disappointment; even though they have come and searched this far. 


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"And now you're all just like them, aren't you? <n>{Lit. it}</n> You see my terror and are terrified. 


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or say «Deliver me from my enemy's control,'<n>{Lit. hand}</n> or «Redeem me from the domination <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of ruthless people'?" 


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<n>{Job Requests Mercy from His Friends}</n> d "Instruct me, and I'll remain silent. Help me understand where I've gone astray. 


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Repent! Let there be no injustice; Change your ways! <n>{The Heb. lacks your ways}</n> My vindication <n>{Or righteousness}</n> is at stake. 


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<n>{Job Acknowledges the Brevity of Life}</n> d "Men have harsh servitude on earth, do they not? His days are like those of a hired laborer, are they not? <n>{Or hireling}</n> 


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"When I lie down I ask, «When will I wake up? 'But the night continues and I keep tossing and turning until dawn. <n>{Or twilight}</n> 


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My skin <n>{Or flesh}</n> is covered with worms and clods of dirt; my skin becomes rough and then breaks out afresh. 


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Remember that my life is a breath; my eyes won't go back to seeing good things. <n>{The Heb. lacks things}</n> 


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The eyes of the one who sees me won't see me anymore; your eyes will look <n>{The Heb. lacks will look}</n> for me but I won't be around! <n>{The Heb. lacks around}</n> 


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As a cloud fades away and vanishes, the one who descends to the afterlife <n>{Lit. Sheol ; i.e. the dwelling place of the dead}</n> doesn't return. <n>{Lit. doesn't come back up}</n> 


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<n>{Job Intends to Complain}</n> d "In addition, I won't keep my opinion <n>{Lit. mouth}</n> to myself; I'll speak from my distressed spirit; I'll complain with my bitter soul. 


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For I've said, «My bed will comfort me; my couch will ease my burdens <n>{Or carry}</n> while I complain.'


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<n>{Job Acknowledges Humankind's Insignificance}</n> d "What is a human being, that you make so much of him; that you set your affections on him, 


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So what if I sin? What have I done against you, you observer of humankind? Why have you made me your target? Why burden yourself with me? 


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Why haven't you pardoned my transgression and taken away my iniquity? Now I'm about to lie down in the dust. You will seek me diligently, but I won't be around!" <n>{The Heb. lacks around}</n> 


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"If your children sin against him, he'll make them a prisoner <n>{Lit. he'll place them into the hand}</n> of their sins. 


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if you are clean and upright, surely then, he'll act on your behalf and restore your rightful <n>{Lit. and bring peace to your righteous}</n> place. 


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"Inquire of the previous generation, won't you please? Consider what their forefathers searched out. 


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If he is uprooted <n>{Lit. is swallowed up}</n> from his place, then it will deny him: «I never saw you.'


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"Indeed, this is the benefit of God's <n>{Lit. his}</n> way: from the soil other plants <n>{The Heb. lacks plants}</n> will sprout. 


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If one were to seek to argue with him, he won't be able to answer him even once in a thousand times. 


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Indeed, if he snatches someone <n>{The Heb. lacks someone}</n> away, who could restrain him? Who can say to him, «What are you doing? '


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"Were I to be summoned, and he were to answer me, I wouldn't even believe that he was listening to what I have to say. <n>{Lit. to my voice}</n> 


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"Is this a contest of strength? He is obviously stronger! Is this a matter of justice? Who can sue him? 


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Though I'm in the right, my own mouth will condemn me; though I'm blameless, he'll pronounce me as guilty. 


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A land is given into the hands of a wicked person; <n>{Lit. man}</n> he covers the faces of its judges. If it is not God, <n>{Lit. he}</n> then who is it?" 


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<n>{Job Argues that God Won't Acquit Him}</n> d "My days pass faster than a runner; but they pass quickly without seeing anything good. 


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If I were to say, «Let me forget my complaint,'change <n>{Lit. forsake}</n> the expression on <n>{The Heb. lacks the expression on}</n> my face, and look cheerful, 


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you'll still drop me into the Pit, <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> and my own clothes will despise me. 


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He's not a man like me, so that I can answer him, or that we can enter into litigation <n>{Lit. controversy}</n> with one another. 


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<n>{Job Asks God to Acquit Him}</n> d "I am disgusted with living, so I'm going to talk about my complaint freely. I'll speak out from the bitterness of my soul. 


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Does it delight you to oppress or despise what you have made, while you smile at the plans of the wicked? <n>{Lit. you cause the plans of the wicked to shine}</n> 


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Although you know that I'm not guilty, there's no one to deliver me from you! <n>{Lit. from your hand}</n> 


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«Woe to me if I'm guilty! If I'm innocent, I cannot lift my head, because I am filled with disgrace. Look at my affliction! 


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But if I do lift up my head, you will hunt me like a lion! You will perform miracles in order to fight against me. 


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«You have brought new witnesses against me, you're even more angry with me you've brought fresh troops to attack me! 


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It's a gloomy land, like deepest darkness; where there's no order, and where even <n>{The Heb. lacks even}</n> the brightness is like darkness.»" 


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"Shouldn't a multitude of words be answered, or a person who talks too much <n>{Or a talker}</n> be vindicated? 


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Will your irrational babble silence people, and when you mock them, will you escape without being shamed? <n>{MT has without being humiliated}</n> 


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You've said, «My teaching is flawless; I'm clean <n>{Or pure}</n> in God's <n>{Lit. your}</n> sight.'


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"But what if God were to speak? What if he were <n>{The Heb. lacks What if he were}</n> to talk <n>{Lit. open his lips against}</n> with you, 


text:
and disclose his wise secrets? After all, there's so much more <n>{Lit. double}</n> to understanding. So be aware that God will exact from you less than your sin deserves." 


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<n>{God's Wisdom is Unfathomable}</n> d "Can you search through God's complex things? Can you uncover the limits of the Almighty? 


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These things are higher than the heavens, so what can you do? They are deeper than Sheol, so what can you know? 


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"If he bypasses, or imprisons, or convenes a court, <n>{The Heb. lacks a court}</n> who can stop <n>{Or repel}</n> him? 


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For he knows mankind's <n>{Lit. men}</n> deceitfulness; when he sees iniquity, won't he himself consider it? 


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<n>{Zophar Counsels Job to Repent}</n> d "Now for you, if you will prepare your heart, spread out your hands to him. 


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If you have any iniquity, throw it far away. Don't let evil <n>{Or wrong}</n> live in your residence. <n>{Lit. tents}</n> 


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You'll forget your suffering; you'll remember it like water that has evaporated. <n>{Or has flowed past}</n> 


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But what the wicked look for will fail; their way of escape will be taken away <n>{Lit. destroyed}</n> from them; their only hope is to take their final breath." <n>{Lit. is to breathe out their soul}</n> 


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Like you, I also have understanding. <n>{Lit. my heart is like yours}</n> I'm not inferior to you; who doesn't know things <n>{The Heb. lacks things}</n> like this?" 


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<n>{Job Has Become a Laughingstock}</n> d "I'm a laughingstock to my friends, someone <n>{The Heb. lacks someone}</n> who called on God. But then he answered this upright and blameless man, and I have become <n>{The Heb. lacks have become}</n> a laughingstock. 


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The carefree are thinking, «I have contempt for misfortune,'Those who are about to stumble deserve it. 


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The tents of robbers are at rest, and those who provoke God are secure, that is, those who carry their god in their pocket. <n>{Lit. hand}</n> 


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<n>{Wisdom Can Be Found in God's Creation}</n> d "Ask the wild animals, and they'll teach you; the birds of the sky will tell you. 


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and that the life of every living thing <n>{Lit. all the living}</n> rests in his control, along with the breath of every living human being? 


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<n>{God is the All-Wise and All-Powerful Creator}</n> d "Wisdom may be found in the company of the aged. Understanding comes <n>{The Heb. lacks comes}</n> with longevity. 


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When he withholds water, rivers <n>{Lit. they}</n> dry up; when he lets them loose, they'll flood <n>{Lit. overthrow}</n> the land. 


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"With God <n>{Lit. him}</n> are strength and sound wisdom; both the deceived and those who deceive are responsible to him. <n>{Or are his}</n> 


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He keeps reliable advisors from speaking, <n>{Lit. deprives the lips of advisors}</n> and removes discernment from elders. 


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He makes nations great, and then destroys them; he enlarges nations, but then sends them away to captivity. <n>{The Heb. lacks to captivity}</n> 


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He withdraws understanding <n>{Lit. heart}</n> from national leaders of the world, <n>{Or land}</n> causing them to wander through uncharted <n>{Or trackless}</n> wilderness. 


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<n>{Job Begins to Argues His Case}</n> d "Look, I've seen everything; I've listened carefully and I understand. 


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But I want to talk to the Almighty; and I'm determined to argue my case <n>{The Heb. lacks my case}</n> before God." 


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<n>{Job Accuses His Friends}</n> d "But as for you, you whitewash with lies; all of you are worthless quacks. <n>{Lit. physicians}</n> 


text:
Will things go well for you under his cross-examination? Can you lie to him, as you would to a human being? <n>{Lit. mankind}</n> 


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"He will be sure to rebuke you, if you show partiality <n>{Lit. you lift up the face}</n> in secret. 


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<n>{Job Resolves to Present His Case}</n> d "Don't talk to me! It's my turn to speak; then whatever happens, happens. 


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Even though he kills me, I'll continue to hope in him. At least I'll be able to argue my case <n>{Or way}</n> to his face! 


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Pay attention <n>{Lit. listen , to listen}</n> to what I have to say and listen to my testimony with your own ears." 


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<n>{Job Presents His Conditions}</n> d "Look, now! I've prepared my case for court. <n>{Or judgment}</n> I know that I'm going to win. <n>{Lit. I'm in the right}</n> 


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Grant me only two things as you deal with me; then I won't hide from you. <n>{Lit. from your face}</n> 


text:
<n>{Job Presents Himself for Cross-Examination}</n> d "How many of my iniquities and sins have you counted? Show me my transgression and sin. 


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You've accused me of bitter things; you've caused me to reap <n>{Lit. inherit}</n> the sins of my youth. 


text:
You've locked my feet in stocks; you watch all my steps; You've limited where I can walk. <n>{Lit. limited the soles of my feet}</n> 


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<n>{Human Beings Live and Die}</n> d Human beings born by women are short-lived <n>{Lit. is of short days}</n> and full of trouble. 


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He springs up <n>{Lit. goes out}</n> like a flower and then withers. <n>{Lit. is cut off}</n> Like a shadow, he disappears <n>{Lit. flees}</n> and doesn't last. 


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Since his days have been determined, the number of his months is known to you. You've set his limit and he cannot exceed it. 


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<n>{Death is Certain}</n> d "There is hope for the tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots won't stop growing. 


text:
Even if its roots have grown ancient in the earth, and its stump begins to rot <n>{Lit. die}</n> in the ground, 


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the presence <n>{Lit. scent}</n> of water will make it to bud so that it sprouts new branches like a young plant. 


text:
"But when a person <n>{Lit. man}</n> dies and wastes away, when a person <n>{Lit. the valiant man}</n> breathes his last, where will he be? 


text:
so also a person <n>{Lit. man}</n> lies down and does not get up; they won't awaken until the heavens are no more, nor will they arise from their sleep." 


text:
<n>{There is Life after Death}</n> d "Won't you keep me safe in the afterlife? <n>{Lit. in Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> Conceal me until your anger subsides. Set an appointment for me, then remember me. 


text:
If a human being <n>{Lit. strong man}</n> dies, will he live again? I will endure the entire time of my assigned service, until I am changed. <n>{Lit. until my change comes ; i.e. change in bodily state at the resurrection; cf. 1 Cor 15:51}</n> 


text:
You'll call and I'll answer you; you'll long for your creatures that your hands have made. <n>{Lit. for the work of your hands}</n> 


text:
Water wears away stones; floods wash away topsoil from the land but you destroy the hope of human beings just like that! 


text:
You overpower him once and for all, and then he departs; you change his appearance and then send him away. 


text:
"If his children are honored, he doesn't know it; if they become insignificant, he never perceives it. 


text:
"Should a wise person respond with knowledge based on wind? Should he fill his stomach with a wind storm from the east? 


text:
Because your sin dictates your speech, <n>{Lit. mouth}</n> you have chosen the language <n>{Lit. tongue}</n> of the crafty. 


text:
<n>{Eliphaz Claims that Job is Guilty}</n> d "Were you the first person <n>{Lit. man}</n> to be born? Were you brought forth before the hills were made? 


text:
"We have both the gray-haired and the aged with us, and they are far older <n>{Lit. are older by many days}</n> than your father. 


text:
Are God's encouragements inconsequential to you, even a word that has been spoken <n>{The Heb. lacks spoken}</n> gently to you? 


text:
"What is mankind, that he can be blameless? Or does being born of a woman mean he'll be in the right? 


text:
Look, if God <n>{Lit. he}</n> doesn't trust his holy ones, <n>{Cf. Job 4:18}</n> if even the heavens aren't pure as he looks at them, 


text:
then how much less is one who is abhorred and corrupted, such as a man who drinks injustice like water?" 


text:
<n>{Eliphaz Describes the Plight of the Wicked}</n> d "I'll tell you what, listen to me! Let me relate what I've seen, 


text:
To them alone was the land given, when no invader <n>{Or foreigner}</n> passed through their midst. 


text:
"The wicked person writhes in pain throughout his life, a number of years has been reserved for the ruthless. 


text:
Terrifying sounds ring <n>{The Heb. lacks ring}</n> in his ears; when times are prosperous, the Destroyer will attack <n>{Or come upon him}</n> him. 


text:
He wanders around for food where is it? He knows that a time of darkness is near. <n>{Lit. is at hand}</n> 


text:
He won't escape darkness; a flame will wither his shoots; and he'll depart by the breath of God's <n>{Lit. his}</n> mouth. 


text:
Let him not trust in a worthless speech. He leads only himself astray, for emptiness will be his reward. 


text:
For the company of the godless is desolation, and fire consumes the tents of those who <n>{The Heb. lacks those who}</n> bribe. 


text:
For they conceive mischief and give birth to iniquity; their womb is pregnant <n>{Lit. womb fashions ; i.e., as a womb fashions a child}</n> with deception." 


text:
"I could also talk like you if only you were in my place! Then I would put together an argument <n>{Lit. together words}</n> against you. I would shake my head at you 


text:
and encourage you with what I have to say; <n>{Lit. with my mouth}</n> my words of comfort would lessen your pain. 


text:
<n>{Job Claims of God's Mistreatment}</n> d "God <n>{Lit. He}</n> has certainly worn me out; you devastated my entire world. <n>{Lit. community}</n> 


text:
You've arrested me, making me testify against myself! My leanness rises up to attack me, accusing <n>{Lit. testifying}</n> me to my face. 


text:
His anger tears me in his persistent resentment against me; he gnashes his teeth at me. My adversary glares <n>{Lit. sharpens his eyes}</n> at me. 


text:
People gaped at me with mouths wide open; they slap me in their scorn and gather together against me. 


text:
"He tore me apart when I was at ease; grabbing me by my neck, he shook me to pieces then he really made me his target. 


text:
His archers surround me, slashing open my kidneys without pity; he pours out my gall on the ground. 


text:
"I've even sewn sackcloth directly to my skin; I've buried my strength <n>{Lit. horn}</n> in the dust. 


text:
<n>{Job Appeals to Witnesses}</n> d "Listen, earth! Don't cover my blood, for my outcry has no place to rest. 


text:
crying for him to arbitrate between this <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> man and God; as a human being does with his fellow neighbor. 


text:
<n>{Job Laments and Prepares for Death}</n> d "My spirit is crushed, my days are over; <n>{Lit. extinguished}</n> it's the grave for me! 


text:
"Because you're the one who closed their hearts to compassion; <n>{Lit. understanding}</n> therefore, you won't let them triumph. 


text:
Now as for the one who testifies against his friends to take their property, <n>{Or inheritance}</n> even the eyes of his children will fail. 


text:
But the righteous person will hold to his way, and those with clean hands will grow stronger and stronger." 


text:
<n>{Job Prepares for Death}</n> d "Come here now, all of you, and I won't find a wise person among you. 


text:
"If my hope were that my house is the afterlife <n>{Lit. Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the afterlife}</n> itself, if I were to make my bed in darkness, 


text:
if I call out to the Pit, <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> «You're my father!'or say to the worm, <n>{I.e. an agent of punishment in the afterlife}</n> «My mother!'or «My sister!'


text:
Will it go down to the bars that lock the doors <n>{The Heb. lacks that lock the doors}</n> of the afterlife? <n>{Lit. Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> Will we descend together into the dust?" 


text:
You're tearing yourself to pieces in your anger. Will the land be abandoned because of you, or the rock be moved from its place?" 


text:
<n>{The Wicked are Trapped}</n> d "Indeed, the light of the wicked is extinguished; the flame from his fire doesn't shine. 


text:
A rope lies hidden in the dirt; a trap lies <n>{The Heb. lacks lies}</n> waiting for him where he is walking." 


text:
<n>{The Wicked Perish without Descendants}</n> d "He is petrified by terror that surrounds him on all sides; they chase at his heels. 


text:
Something gnaws on his skin; a deadly disease <n>{Lit. a firstborn of death}</n> consumes his limbs. 


text:
People <n>{The Heb. lacks people}</n> who live west of him are appalled at his fate; <n>{Lit. at his day}</n> those who live east of him are seized with terror. 


text:
Indeed, the residences of the wicked are like this; and so are the homes of those who don't know God." 


text:
If you really intend to vaunt yourselves over me, and make my problems the basis of your case against me, 


text:
<n>{Job Accuses God of Being Angry}</n> d "Although I cried out «Violence!'I received no answer; I cried for help, but there was no justice. 


text:
He is breaking me down on every side, and now it's too late for me; <n>{Lit. and I'm gone}</n> he has uprooted my hopes like a tree. 


text:
His troops march <n>{Or proceed}</n> in a column <n>{Or together}</n> against me, erecting their siege ramps against me; they surround my tent." 


text:
<n>{Job's Family and Friends Abandoned Him}</n> d "My brothers are alienated from me; my acquaintances are estranged; 


text:
Those who live in my house and my maidservants, too! treat me like a stranger; they think I'm a foreigner. 


text:
"I call to my servant, but he doesn't respond, even though I beg to him earnestly. <n>{Lit. him with my mouth}</n> 


text:
My closest friends <n>{Or circle of familiar friends}</n> detest me; even the ones I love have turned against me. 


text:
<n>{Job Pleads with His Friends}</n> d "Be gracious to me, be gracious to me, my friends, because God's hand has struck me. 


text:
Why are you chasing me, as God has been doing? Aren't you satisfied that I'm sick? <n>{Lit. satisfied with my flesh}</n> 


text:
"As for me, I know that my Vindicator <n>{Or Redeemer}</n> is alive; And he, the Last One, <n>{Lit. And the Last}</n> will take his stand on the soil. <n>{Or dust}</n> 


text:
whom I will see for myself. My own eyes will look at him there won't be anyone else for me! He is the culmination of my innermost desire." 


text:
<n>{Job Reminds His Friends of Judgment}</n> d "When you're thinking about asking yourselves, «How will we pursue him, since the root of the problem is with him? '<n>{Lit me}</n> 


text:
Make sure that you remain wary of God's sword, for God's wrath brings with it the sword of punishment, by which you'll know there's a judgment." 


text:
<n>{Destruction Awaits the Wicked}</n> d "Haven't you known this from ancient times, since mankind was placed on the earth? 


text:
He'll vanish <n>{Lit. He'll fly away}</n> like a dream, and no one will find him; he will be chased away like a night vision." 


text:
though he savors it and delays swallowing it so he can taste it again and again in his mouth, <n>{Lit. can hold it in the middle of his palate}</n> 


text:
"He will restore what he has attained from his work and won't consume it; he won't enjoy the profits from his business transactions, 


text:
"Since his appetite won't quit; <n>{Lit. his belly knew no contentment}</n> he won't let anything escape his lust. <n>{Lit. delight}</n> 


text:
Even though he is satiated and self-sufficient, he suffers everyone in any sort of trouble will attack him. 


text:
"It will come about that, when he has filled himself to the full, God <n>{Lit. he}</n> will vent his burning anger on him; he will pour it out on him and on his body. 


text:
It will impale him and come out through his back; the point will glisten as it protrudes through his gall bladder, and he will be terrified. 


text:
"Total darkness has been reserved for his treasures; a fire that has no need to be kindled will devour him and consume whatever remains in his possession. <n>{Lit. tent}</n> 


text:
This is what the wicked person inherits from God; it is the inheritance that God appoints for him." 


text:
When I think about this, <n>{The Heb. lacks of this}</n> I'm petrified with terror and my body shudders uncontrollably." 


text:
<n>{The Wicked Prospers}</n> d "Why do the wicked live to reach old age and increase in power and wealth, too? 


text:
singing <n>{Lit. they take up}</n> with tambourines and lyres as they rejoice to the sound of flutes. 


text:
They grow old <n>{Lit. wear out their days}</n> in prosperity, as they descend peacefully into the afterlife. <n>{Lit. Sheol ; i.e. the abode of the dead}</n> 


text:
Behold! Their prosperity isn't in their control! The counsel of the wicked will remain far from me." 


text:
<n>{God will Punish the Wicked}</n> d "How often do the wicked have their lights put out? Does calamity ever fall on them? Will God <n>{Lit. he}</n> in his anger ever apportion their destruction? 


text:
May they become like a straw, blown away before the wind; like a chaff that's swept off by a storm. 


text:
God stores up their iniquity to repay their children; making them <n>{Lit. him}</n> repay so that they may be aware. 


text:
What will they care for their household after them, when the number of his months comes to an end?" 


text:
<n>{Death Levels Everyone}</n> d "Can God learn anything? After all, he will judge even the exalted ones. 


text:
<n>{Job Suspects His Friends of Treachery}</n> d "Look! I know your thoughts, your plans <n>{Or purposes}</n> are going to harm me. 


text:
The runoff from the streams will seem sweet to him; everyone will follow after him; countless crows march ahead of him. 


text:
Will it please the Almighty if you are innocent, or does he profit if your life is <n>{Lit. your ways are}</n> blameless? 


text:
"After all, you've taken collateral from your relatives for no reason; you stripped the naked of their clothing. <n>{I.e. in exchange for a short-term loan}</n> 


text:
You've neglected to give water to the weary, <n>{MT has cause the weary to drink}</n> and you've withheld food from the hungry. 


text:
The land belongs to the powerful, and the privileged <n>{Lit. who lifts the face}</n> thrive in it. 


text:
you see nothing but darkness, and a flood of troubles <n>{The Heb. lacks of troubles}</n> drowns you." 


text:
<n>{Eliphaz Acknowledges God but Issues an Imprecatory Prayer}</n> d "Isn't God in heaven above? Consider how far away the stars are, and how lofty they are! 


text:
You've asked, «What does God know? Can he sort through pitch black darkness? '<n>{Or deep darkness}</n> 


text:
"Will you keep walking on the traditional path that sinners <n>{MT has men of iniquity}</n> have tread, 


text:
"Though God <n>{Lit. he}</n> fills their houses with good things, the counsel of the wicked will remain far from me. 


text:
The righteous will see this and rejoice; the innocent will insult him, saying, <n>{The Heb. lacks saying}</n> 


text:
<n>{Eliphaz Challenges Job to Repent}</n> d "Get to know God, and you'll be at peace with him, and then prosperity will come to you. 


text:
"If you return to the Almighty you'll be restored, as you remove iniquity from your household. <n>{Lit. tent}</n> 


text:
Bury your gold nuggets in the dust, and your source of gold <n>{Lit. Ophir ; i.e., an ancient source fine gold; cf. 1Chr 29:4}</n> among the stones in a streambed, 


text:
When you make a decision on something, it will be established for you, and light will brighten <n>{Or enlighten}</n> your way. 


text:
"For when they're humbled, you may respond; <n>{Lit. say back}</n> «It's their pride!'but he delivers the humble. 


text:
He'll even deliver the guilty, who will be delivered through your innocence." <n>{Lit. through the cleanness of your hands}</n> 


text:
In that place, the upright can reason with him; and I'll be acquitted once and for all by my judge." 


text:
<n>{Job Justifies His Innocence}</n> d "Look! If I go east, <n>{Or forward}</n> he isn't there! If I go to the west, <n>{Or back}</n> I don't perceive him. 


text:
If he's working in the north, <n>{Or left}</n> I can't observe him; <n>{The Heb. lacks him}</n> If he turns south, <n>{Or right}</n> I can't see him. <n>{The Heb. lacks him}</n> 


text:
I haven't wandered away from the commands that he has spoken; <n>{Lit. commands of his lips}</n> I've treasured what he has said <n>{Lit. treasured the words of his mouth}</n> more than my own meals." 


text:
<n>{Job Stands Petrified Before God}</n> d "But he is One who can change him? He does whatever he wants to do. 


text:
Nevertheless, I haven't been silenced because of the darkness, even when thick darkness obscures my vision." <n>{Lit. face}</n> 


text:
<n>{Job Describes Social Injustice}</n> d Why doesn't the Almighty reserve time for judgment? and why don't those who know him perceive his days? 


text:
They move boundary stones, <n>{Or borders}</n> steal flocks, and pasture them. <n>{The Heb. lacks them}</n> 


text:
They drive away the orphan's donkey; they take the ox of the widow as security for a loan; <n>{The Heb. lacks for a loan}</n> 


text:
"Look! Like wild donkeys in the wilderness, they work diligently as they seek wild game in the desert, food for them and their young ones. 


text:
"The fatherless are torn from the breast; the poor are taken away as security for a loan. <n>{The Heb. lacks for a loan}</n> 


text:
They wander around naked, without clothes; hungry, though they carry sheaves of grain. <n>{The Heb. lacks grain}</n> 


text:
They press oil between the olive groves owned by the wicked; they suffer from thirst, even while treading the winepress. 


text:
From the city, dying men groan aloud, and the wounded cries out for help, but God charges no one with wrong. 


text:
"Then there are those who rebel against the light; they are not acquainted with its ways; and they don't stay on its course. <n>{Or path}</n> 


text:
The adulterer watches for twilight, <n>{Lit. twilight}</n> saying, «No eye is watching me'while he veils his face. 


text:
They break into houses in the dark; during the day they remained sealed in. They don't know daylight. 


text:
<n>{Social Injustice will Be Punished}</n> d "They remain only a short time on the water's surface; their inheritance will be cursed in the land; no one will work in their vineyards. 


text:
As drought and heat evaporate melting snow, that's what Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the afterlife}</n> does with sinners. 


text:
The womb will forget them. Maggots will find them to be a delicacy! They won't be remembered anymore, their iniquity will be cut to pieces like firewood. <n>{Lit. like a tree}</n> 


text:
God <n>{Lit. He}</n> prolongs the life of the strong by his power, but they get up in the morning <n>{The Heb. lacks in the morning}</n> without purpose in life. 


text:
They're exalted momentarily, but then they are gone; they are humbled, <n>{Or brought low}</n> just like all the others. They are cut down like heads of corn. 


text:
If this weren't so, who can prove that I'm a liar by showing that there's nothing to what I'm saying?" 


text:
How can a human being <n>{Lit. man}</n> become right with God? How can a human being <n>{Lit. can one born of a woman}</n> be pure? 


text:
<n>{Job Acknowledges God's Power}</n> d "The ghosts of the dead <n>{Lit. Rephaim ; i.e., souls of the dead}</n> writhe under the waters along with those who live there with them. 


text:
Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the afterlife}</n> is naked before God <n>{Lit. him}</n> and Abaddon <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> has no clothes. 


text:
He has delimited a boundary <n>{Lit. statute}</n> over the surface of the oceans as a limit between light and darkness. 


text:
By his power he disturbs the sea; and with his skill he shatters the sea monster. <n>{Lit. shattered Rahab}</n> 


text:
Indeed, these are the fringes of his ways, and how faint is the whisper we've heard of it! But who can comprehend the thunder of his might?" 


text:
"The living God has withheld justice from me; the Almighty has made my life <n>{Or soul}</n> bitter. 


text:
Far be it from me to admit that you're right! I intend to maintain my integrity <n>{Cf. Job 2:9}</n> even if it kills me! 


text:
<n>{On the Demise of the Wicked}</n> d "I'll teach you about the power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of God, that which is with the Almighty I won't conceal. 


text:
"This is what a wicked person <n>{Lit. man}</n> inherits from God, and what the ruthless will receive from the Almighty: 


text:
If he has many children, their destiny is to die by the sword, and his descendants won't have enough food. 


text:
"He has built his house like a moth's cocoon, <n>{The Heb. lacks cocoon}</n> like a temporary <n>{The Heb. lacks temporary}</n> sunshade that a watchman makes. 


text:
He will go to bed wealthy, but won't be doing that anymore! When he opens his eyes, it will be gone! 


text:
Terror will overtake him like a flood, <n>{Lit. water}</n> at night, a tornado will sweep him away. 


text:
He'll be swept up by a storm <n>{Lit. east}</n> wind and carried away; he'll be whirled away from his place. 


text:
It will toss him around without pity. He'll try to break free <n>{Lit. grip to flee , he will flee}</n> from its grip, <n>{Lit. hand}</n> 


text:
but it will clap its hands over him, hissing at him as it lunges toward him." <n>{Lit. him from its place}</n> 


text:
<n>{Priceless Wisdom is Sourced in God}</n> d "Surely there are mines for silver and places where gold is refined. 


text:
Mankind limits the darkness as they search the deepest depths for ore <n>{Lit. for darkest stone}</n> in unfathomable darkness. 


text:
He sinks his shaft far from human habitations, in a place <n>{The Heb. lacks in a place}</n> forgotten by explorers; they hang on harnesses as they swing back and forth. 


text:
"While the ground produces food, underneath it is torn up and burning hot, <n>{Lit. is turned up as by fire}</n> 


text:
<n>{Wisdom is of Greater Value than Precious Stones}</n> d "Where can wisdom be found? Where is understanding's home? 


text:
Mankind doesn't appreciate their value; and you won't find it anywhere on earth. <n>{Lit. it in the land of the living}</n> 


text:
It cannot be compared to gold from Ophir, <n>{I.e. an ancient source of fine gold; cf. 1Chr 29:4}</n> with precious onyx, or with sapphire. 


text:
It cannot be compared to gold and fine glass <n>{The Heb. lacks fine glass}</n> crystal, nor can it be exchanged for gold-plated weaponry. <n>{Or for refined implements made of gold}</n> 


text:
Don't even bother to mention coral and crystal wisdom is more valuable than a bag of rubies. <n>{Or pearls}</n> 


text:
<n>{Wisdom is from God}</n> d "From where, then, does wisdom originate? Where does understanding live? <n>{Lit. Where is its place?}</n> 


text:
It has been concealed from the sight of every living creature and hidden even from the birds in the skies. 


text:
Abaddon <n>{I.e. the realm of eternal judgment in the afterlife}</n> and death said, «We did hear a rumor about it.'


text:
For he looks as far as the ends of the earth and sees everything under the sky. <n>{Or under heaven}</n> 


text:
He set in place ordinances for the rain; and determined the pathway for thunder that accompanies lightning. <n>{ The sound of a thunderbolt}</n> 


text:
He has commanded mankind: «To fear the Lord that is wisdom; to move away from evil that is understanding.»" 


text:
like when I was in my prime and God trusted me with his secrets! <n>{Lit. God's counsel was over my tent}</n> 


text:
I was successful wherever I went, <n>{Lit. When my feet were bathed in cream;}</n> and even the rocks poured out streams of olive oil for me." 


text:
<n>{Job Remembers His Respected Position}</n> d "Whenever I went out to the city gate, a seat had been reserved for me in the plaza. <n>{Lit. square ; i.e. he served as a ruling elder in his home city}</n> 


text:
The voices of the commanders-in-chief <n>{Lit. Nagidim ; i.e. senior officers entrusted with dual roles of operational oversight and administrative authority}</n> were hushed, and their tongues would cling to the roofs of their mouths." 


text:
<n>{Job Remembers His Acts of Kindness}</n> d "When people heard me speak, they blessed me; when people saw me, they approved me, 


text:
because I delivered the poor who were crying for help, along with orphans who had no one to help them. 


text:
<n>{Job Remembers His Previous Condition}</n> d "I used to say: «I will die in my home. <n>{Lit. nest}</n> I'm going to live as many days as there are grains of sand on the shore. <n>{The Heb. lacks on the shore}</n> 


text:
I set an example of the way to live, <n>{Lit. I chose their way}</n> as a leader would; I lived like a king among his army; like one who comforts mourners." 


text:
<n>{Job Describes His Current Status in Life}</n> d "But now they mock me; men who are far younger than I, whose fathers I would have hated to entrust with my own sheep dogs. 


text:
Unproductive due to poverty <n>{Or want}</n> and hunger, they could only scratch in parched soil, devastated and desolated. 


text:
"They would pluck off herbs from salt marshes to eat; and roots of the broom shrub <n>{I.e. a desert bush native to Israel whose bitter roots could be harvested by the destitute and eaten when food was scarce}</n> for food. 


text:
They bray like donkeys <n>{The Heb. lacks like donkeys}</n> among the bushes and huddle together under the desert weeds. 


text:
Sons of fools and of uncertain reputation, <n>{The Or and without a name}</n> they have been driven from the land by scourging." 


text:
<n>{Job Presents the Actions of the Mockers}</n> d "Now, I've become the object of their mocking melodies; <n>{Lit. their neginnoth}</n> I'm nothing but a fool's proverb to them! 


text:
They abhor me they keep their distance from me; but they don't refrain from spitting at the sight of me. 


text:
But God <n>{Lit. he}</n> has loosened his cord and afflicted me; so they've cast off all restraints in my presence. 


text:
"A wretched crowd ambushes me to my right; they trip my feet; they build up their path of calamity for me. 


text:
They come like those who breach through a wall; as everything crashes around me they'll roll on and on! 


text:
My greatest fears have overcome me; my honor is assaulted as though by a wind storm; my prosperity evaporates like a morning cloud." 


text:
<n>{Job Accuses God of Mistreating Him}</n> d "Now, my soul pours itself out; the time of my affliction has taken control of me. 


text:
My clothes are disheveled by his forceful treatment of me; <n>{The Heb. lacks of me}</n> he restricts my movement like the collar of my cloak. 


text:
you carried me off in a wind storm, making me ride on it while you toss me about as the storm roars around me. 


text:
I know that you're about to kill me, so I'm about to go to the house that's appointed for all the living." 


text:
<n>{Job Lists His Hopes Despite His Diplorable Condition}</n> d "Surely he won't stretch his hand against the needy, will he, especially if they cry to him in their calamity? 


text:
I'm boiling mad inside, and I won't remain silent; the time for my affliction to confront me has arrived. 


text:
<n>{Job Asserts His Moral Innocence}</n> d "I made a covenant with my eyes; how, then, can I focus my attention on a virgin? 


text:
What would I have <n>{The Heb. lacks would one have}</n> from God above, what heritage from the Almighty on high, 


text:
<n>{No Lies and Deception}</n> d "If I've lived my life in the company of vanity, or run quickly to embrace deception, 


text:
If I have stepped away from the way, or if my heart covets whatever my eyes see, or if some other blemish clings to my hands, 


text:
<n>{No Adultery}</n> d "If my heart has been seduced by a woman and I've laid in wait at my friend's door, 


text:
The fires of Abaddon <n>{Or Destruction ; i.e. the realm of eternal punishment in the afterlife}</n> will burn, <n>{Lit. consume}</n> disrupting every part of my eternal reward." <n>{Lit. my harvest}</n> 


text:
<n>{No Abuse of Servants}</n> d "If I've refused to help my male and female servants when they complain against me, 


text:
The one who made me in the womb made them, <n>{Lit. him}</n> too, didn't he? Didn't the same one prepare each of us in the womb?" 


text:
<n>{No Injustice on the Poor}</n> d "If I refused to grant the desire of the poor or exhausted the eyes of the widow, 


text:
(even a poor man had grown up with me as if I were his father, and even though I had guided the widow <n>{Lit. her}</n> from the time I was born), 


text:
"if I've observed someone who is about to die for lack of clothes or if I have no clothing to give to the poor, 


text:
if he hadn't thanked me from the bottom of his heart, <n>{Lit. hadn't blessed me from his loins}</n> if he had not been warmed by wool from my sheep, 


text:
if I've raised my hand against an orphan when I thought I would against him in court, <n>{Lit. when I saw help for me at the gate,}</n> 


text:
then let my arm <n>{Lit. side}</n> fall from its socket; and may my arm be torn off at the shoulder. 


text:
For I'm terrified of what calamity God may have in store for me; and I cannot endure his grandeur." 


text:
<n>{No Trust in Wealth and Heavenly Bodies}</n> d "If I've put my confidence in gold, if I've told gold, «You're my security,'


text:
if I look at the sun <n>{Lit. light}</n> when it shines or the moon as it rises in steady splendor, 


text:
this is also a sin that deserves to be judged, since I would have tried to deceive <n>{Or have denied}</n> God above." 


text:
<n>{No Rejoicing over the Plight of Adversary}</n> d "Have I rejoiced in the destruction of those who hate me, or have I been happy that evil caught up with him? 


text:
People in my household have said, «We cannot find anyone who has not been satisfied with his meat,'haven't they? 


text:
<n>{No Secret Sins}</n> d "Have I covered my transgression like other people, to conceal iniquity within myself? <n>{Or bosom}</n> 


text:
Have I feared large crowds? Has my family's contempt ever terrified me so that I remained silent and wouldn't go outside?" 


text:
<n>{Request for A Hearing}</n> d "Who will grant me a hearing? Here's my signature <n>{Lit. seal}</n> let the Almighty answer! Since my adversary indicted me, 


text:
I'll give an account for every step I've taken; I'll approach him confidently like a Commander-in-Chief." <n>{Lit. Nagid ; i.e. a senior officer entrusted with dual roles of operational oversight and administrative authority}</n> 


text:
<n>{No Abuse of the Land}</n> d "If my land were to cry out against me or if all its furrows wept as one, 


text:
If I've consumed its produce <n>{Lit. strength}</n> without paying for it and snuffed out the life of its owners; 


text:
may thorns spring up instead of wheat, and obnoxious weeds instead of barley." With this, Job's discourse with his friends <n>{The Heb. lacks with his friends}</n> is completed. 


text:
<n>{Elihu Addresses Job and His Friends}</n> d These three men stopped responding to Job, because he was claiming to be righteous, in his own opinion. <n>{Lit. eyes}</n> 


text:
But then Barachel's son Elihu from Buz, one of Ram's descendants, got really angry. He was furious with Job because he had been declaring himself righteous instead of vindicating God. 


text:
Furthermore, he was furious with his three friends because they had not answered Job, but instead had condemned him. 


text:
but when he saw that there had been no response <n>{Lit. mouth}</n> from those three, he got even more angry. 


text:
Barachel's son Elihu from Buz responded and said: I'm younger than you are. Because you're older, <n>{Lit. aged}</n> I was terrified to tell you what I know. 


text:
<n>{There's No Fool Like an Old Fool}</n> d "The aged aren't always wise, nor do the elderly always understand justice. 


text:
"Look! I have waited to hear your speech, so I listened to your insights while you searched for the right words to say. <n>{The Heb. lacks to say}</n> 


text:
Indeed, I paid close attention to you all, but none of you were able to refute <n>{Or rebuke}</n> Job or answer his arguments convincingly. 


text:
Shall I continue to wait, since they're no longer talking? After all, they're only standing there; they're no longer responding. 


text:
because I'm filled with things to say, and my spirit within me compels me to speak. <n>{The Heb. lacks to speak}</n> 


text:
since I don't know the first thing about how to flatter; and the one who made me would sweep me away as if I were nothing." 


text:
<n>{Elihu Begins His Discourse}</n> d "Now please listen to what I have to say, Job. Listen to every word! 


text:
Look! I've begun to speak, <n>{Lit. I've opened my mouth}</n> and I'm fashioning my words. <n>{Lit. and my tongue speaks in my mouth}</n> 


text:
I speak from the innocence <n>{Or integrity}</n> of my heart; and my lips will utter what I sincerely know. 


text:
Look! As far as God is concerned, <n>{Lit. Look! Before God}</n> I'm just like you are I, too, have been pinched off from a piece of clay. 


text:
<n>{Elihu Reviews Job's Claim for Innocence}</n> d "You spoke clearly so I could hear; I've heard what you've said: 


text:
He has bound my feet in shackles, and keeps watching everything I do.»" <n>{Lit. watching all my paths}</n> 


text:
<n>{God Responds to Humanity's Need}</n> d "You aren't right about this; My response is that God is greater than human beings. 


text:
That's when he opens the ear of mankind, authenticating his messages <n>{Lit. mankind, sealing his instruction}</n> to them, 


text:
sparing his soul from the Pit <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> and his life from violent death. <n>{Lit. from death by the sword}</n> 


text:
His soul is getting close to the Pit; <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> his life is approaching its executioner." 


text:
<n>{God Delivers through His Ransom}</n> d "If there's a messenger <n>{Or an angel}</n> appointed to mediate for Job <n>{Lit. him}</n> one out of a thousand to represent the man's integrity on his behalf, 


text:
to show favor to him and to plead, «Deliver him from having to go down to the Pit <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> I know where his ransom is!'


text:
Let his flesh be rejuvenated <n>{Lit. grew fresh}</n> as he was in his youth! Let him recover the strength of his youth. 


text:
<n>{The Song of the Ransomed}</n> d "He'll sing to mankind with these words: «I've sinned. I have twisted what is right. Yet he has not repaid me like I deserve. <n>{The Heb. lacks like I deserve}</n> 


text:
He has redeemed my soul from going down to the Pit; <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> my life will see the light.'


text:
Indeed God does all these things again and again <n>{Lit. things twice, three times}</n> with a person 


text:
to bring back his soul from the Pit; <n>{I.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> to light him with the light of life." 


text:
<n>{Elihu Invites Job to Respond}</n> d "Job, pay attention! Listen to me! Be silent and let me speak. 


text:
But if you have nothing to say, then at least listen to me! Be quiet and learn some wisdom from me." 


text:
<n>{Elihu Reviews Job's Complaint against God's Injustice}</n> d Now this is Job's claim: «Even though I'm innocent, God has stopped treating me righteously. 


text:
Have I lied concerning the justice that I deserve? <n>{Lit. concerning my justice}</n> My wound <n>{Or cut}</n> is incurable, though transgression cannot be attributed to me.'


text:
<n>{God is Just}</n> d "Therefore you men of understanding, <n>{Lit. heart}</n> listen to me! Far be it for God to practice wickedness, or the Almighty to do what is wrong, 


text:
because he repays a person for his behavior; and according to a person's <n>{Lit. man}</n> conduct, he lets it happen to <n>{Lit. it find}</n> him. 


text:
If he were to decide to do so, that is, to take back to himself <n>{The Heb. lacks to himself}</n> his spirit and breath of life, <n>{The Heb. lacks of life}</n> 


text:
every living thing would die all at once, <n>{Lit. die together}</n> and mankind would return to dust." 


text:
<n>{God's Rule is Just}</n> d If you have <n>{The Heb. lacks you have}</n> understanding, listen to this! Pay attention to what I have to say: 


text:
Can one who hates justice really govern? And if God <n>{Lit. he}</n> is righteous and mighty, can you condemn him? <n>{The Heb. lacks him}</n> 


text:
Who isn't partial to <n>{Lit. Who doesn't lift the faces of}</n> princes? Who doesn't give preference to the nobles over the poor? Nevertheless, all of them are his handiwork. 


text:
"They die suddenly, in the middle of the night; people suffer seizures and pass away; even valiant men can be taken away and not by human hands. 


text:
Yes, Job, <n>{The Heb. lacks Job}</n> his eyes constantly watch the behavior of human beings; he carefully observes their every step. 


text:
There's no such thing as darkness to him not even deep darkness that can conceal those who practice evil. 


text:
"If he remains silent, who will condemn him? If he conceals his face, who can see him? He watches over both nation and individual alike, 


text:
<n>{Elihu's Challenge to Job}</n> d "Has anyone ever really told God, «I've endured, <n>{Or carry}</n> and I won't act corruptly anymore. 


text:
"Should you not be paid back, since you have rejected him? You do the choosing! I won't! Tell us what you know! 


text:
<n>{Elihu's Verdict: Job is not Wise}</n> d "Men of understanding, speak to me! Are any of you men wise? Then listen to me! 


text:
because he has been adding rebellion to his sin; he claps his hands among us, <n>{I.e. as a gesture of disrespect}</n> and keeps on ranting against God." 


text:
<n>{God's Justice Remains Unsullied}</n> d "Observe the heavens! Take a look around! Look! The clouds are higher than you, aren't they? 


text:
If you sin, what will that do to harm him? If you add transgression to transgression what will it do to him? 


text:
If you are righteous, what will you add to him? What can God receive from your efforts? <n>{Lit. hand}</n> 


text:
Your wickedness affects only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> yourself; and your righteousness, only human beings. <n>{Lit. only a son of man}</n> 


text:
"They cry out because they have many oppressors; they cry for help because the powerful are abusing them. <n>{Lit. because of the arm of the powerful}</n> 


text:
Even though you complain that you can't perceive him, your case is already pending for judgment in his presence so keep on placing your hope in him. 


text:
"So now, if he doesn't inflict punishment in his anger, then he doesn't keep track of your many transgressions. 


text:
When he began speaking, he communicated only worthlessness; he added words upon words without knowing anything." 


text:
I'll take what I know to its logical conclusion <n>{Lit. I'll bring my knowledge from a long ways away}</n> and ascribe righteousness to my Creator, 


text:
<n>{God Disciplines}</n> d "Indeed God is mighty and he doesn't show disrespect; he is mighty and strong of heart. 


text:
He won't stop looking at righteous people; he seats them on thrones with kings forever, and they are exalted. 


text:
If they listen and serve him, <n>{The Heb. lacks him}</n> they'll finish <n>{Or finish}</n> their lives in prosperity and their years will be pleasant. 


text:
"But if they won't listen, they'll perish <n>{Lit. by the sword they'll pass through}</n> by the sword and die in their ignorance. 


text:
The godless at heart cherish <n>{Lit. lay up}</n> anger; they won't cry out for help when God <n>{Lit. he}</n> afflicts <n>{Lit. binds}</n> them. 


text:
They <n>{Lit. Their souls}</n> die in their youth; and their life will end <n>{The Heb. lacks will end}</n> among temple prostitutes. 


text:
He'll deliver the afflicted through their afflictions and open their ears when they are oppressed." 


text:
<n>{God is an All-Powerful and Just Teacher}</n> d "Indeed, he drew you away from the brink of distress to a spacious place without constraints, filling your festive <n>{Lit. restful}</n> table with bountiful <n>{Lit. fat}</n> food. 


text:
"Will your wealth sustain you when you're in distress, despite your most powerful efforts? <n>{Or your force of strength}</n> 


text:
<n>{God Controls the Weather}</n> d "God is truly awesome, beyond what we know; the number of his years is unknowable. <n>{Or unreachable}</n> 


text:
<n>{Elihu Concludes His Argument}</n> d "Now I'll conclude with this: my heart is trembling violently; it feels like it's about to leap from my body! 


text:
His thunder roars after it; his majestic voice will thunder; and no one can trace them <n>{Lit. follow at the heel of their feet}</n> once his voice has been heard. 


text:
For he says to the snow, «Fall to the earth.'He tells the rain, «Pour down,'then it rains profusely. 


text:
"He puts a limit to the skill <n>{Lit. a seal on the hand}</n> of every person; to delineate all people from what they do. 


text:
It whirls about in circles at his direction to accomplish all that he commands throughout the surface of the entire world, 


text:
whether for discipline on his land or to demonstrate his gracious love, he causes it to be realized." 


text:
<n>{Elihu Challenges Job to Pay Attention}</n> d "Pay attention to this, Job! Stand still, and consider the wondrous attributes of God. 


text:
Do you understand his wondrous work of balancing the clouds, the one <n>{The Heb. lacks the one}</n> whose knowledge is perfect, 


text:
Tell us! What are we to say to him? Can we prepare our case to face him when our faces are in darkness? 


text:
Has it been relayed to God <n>{Lit. him}</n> that I want to talk? Can a person <n>{Lit. man}</n> speak when he is confused?" 


text:
<n>{God is Revered}</n> d "So then, the sun <n>{Or light}</n> is too bright to gaze at, is it not? The sky is swept clean by the wind that blows, <n>{Lit. that passes through}</n> is it not? 


text:
We cannot find the Almighty he is majestic in power and justice, and overflowing with righteousness; he never oppresses. 


text:
Therefore humanity fears him, which none of the wise <n>{Lit. wise of heart}</n> can quite comprehend." 


text:
Stand up <n>{Lit. Gird up your loins}</n> like a man! I'll ask you some questions, and you give me some answers!" 


text:
<n>{On the Natural World}</n> d "Where were you when I laid the foundation of my earth? Tell me, <n>{Or declare}</n> since you're so informed! 


text:
while the morning stars sang together and all the divine beings <n>{Lit. sons of God}</n> shouted joyfully? 


text:
"Who <n>{Lit. and he}</n> enclosed the sea with limits <n>{Lit. doors}</n> when it gushed out of the womb, 


text:
"Have you ever commanded the morning at any time during your life? <n>{Lit. morning in your days}</n> Do you know where the dawn lives, 


text:
Like clay is molded by a signet ring, the earth's hills and valleys <n>{The Heb. lacks the earth's hills and valleys}</n> then stand out like the colors of a garment. 


text:
Whose womb brings forth the ice? Who gives birth to frost out of an empty <n>{The Heb. lacks an empty}</n> sky, 


text:
Can you command the lightning, so that it goes forth and calls to you, «Look at us!'<n>{Lit. Here we are}</n> 


text:
Who has the wisdom to be able to count the clouds, or to empty <n>{Lit. cause to rest , lie down}</n> the water jars of heaven, 


text:
Who prepares food for the raven, when its offspring cry out to God as they wander for lack of food?" 


text:
<n>{On the Birth of Young}</n> d "Do you know when the mountain goat gives birth? Do you watch the doe as it calves its young? 


text:
when they crouch down <n>{Or bow down}</n> to give birth <n>{Lit. cleave open}</n> to their offspring, and let go <n>{Lit. send}</n> of their birth pangs? 


text:
Their young are strong; they grow up in the open field; then they go off and don't return to them." 


text:
<n>{On Wild Animals}</n> d "Who sets the wild donkey free? Who loosens the bonds of the wild donkey 


text:
to whom I've given the Arabah <n>{I.e. the desert wilderness of southern Israel}</n> for a home; the salt plain for his dwelling place? 


text:
<n>{On the Ostrich}</n> d "The wings of the ostrich flap joyously, but aren't its pinions and feathers like the stork? 


text:
She mistreats her young as though they're not hers, and she has no fear that her labor may be in vain, 


text:
<n>{On the Horse}</n> d Do you instill the horse with strength? Do you clothe its neck with a mane? 


text:
He paws the ground <n>{The Heb. lacks the ground}</n> in the valley and rejoices in his strength; he goes out to face weapons. 


text:
Leaping in his excitement, he takes in <n>{Lit. swallows}</n> the ground; he cannot stand still when the trumpets sound! 


text:
When the trumpet blasts he'll neigh, «Aha! Aha!'From a distance he can sense war, the war cry of generals, <n>{Or officers}</n> and their shouting." 


text:
<n>{On Raptors}</n> d "Is it by your understanding that the hawk flies, spreading its wings toward the south? 


text:
Does the eagle soar high at your command <n>{Lit. mouth}</n> and build its nest on the highest crags? 


text:
His young ones feast <n>{Lit. suck up}</n> on blood; he'll be found wherever there's a carcass." <n>{Or slain}</n> 


text:
"Should the one who is fighting the Almighty find fault with him? <n>{The Heb. lacks him}</n> Let God's accuser answer." 


text:
"I must look insignificant to you! How can I answer you? I'm speechless. <n>{Lit. I put my hand over my mouth}</n> 


text:
I spoke once, but I can't answer; I tried <n>{The Heb. lacks tried}</n> a second time, but I won't do so anymore." 


text:
<n>{The Lord Continues to Interrogate Job}</n> d The Lord answered Job from the wind storm and told him: 


text:
"Stand up <n>{Lit. Gird up your loins}</n> like a man! I'll ask you some questions, and you give me some answers! 


text:
Do you have strength <n>{Lit. have an arm}</n> like God? Can you create thunder with a sound <n>{Lit. voice}</n> like he can?" 


text:
<n>{Can You Save Yourself?}</n> d "When you have adorned yourself with exalted majesty, clothed yourself with splendor and dignity, <n>{Lit. splendor and majesty}</n> 


text:
dispensed the fury of your anger, made sure <n>{Lit. see}</n> that you have humbled every proud person, 


text:
buried <n>{MT has hide}</n> them in the dust together, and sent them bound to that secret place, <n>{I.e. the afterlife}</n> 


text:
<n>{On Behemoth}</n> d "Please observe <n>{Lit. look}</n> Behemoth, <n>{I.e. an ancient, gigantic herbivore, living in Job's time but now apparently extinct}</n> which I made along with you. He eats grass like an ox. 


text:
His bones are conduits <n>{Or channels}</n> of bronze; <n>{Or copper}</n> his strong bones are like bars of iron. 


text:
He is the grandest <n>{Or first}</n> of God's undertakings, <n>{Lit. ways}</n> yet his creator is approaching him with his sword. <n>{I.e. God was about to make Behemoth extinct}</n> 


text:
The lotus trees cover him with their shade, and willows that line the wadis <n>{I.e. seasonal streams that channel water during rain seasons but are dry at other times}</n> surround him. 


text:
<n>{On Leviathan}</n> d <n>{This v. is 40:25 in MT, v2 is 40:26 in MT, and so through v8 .}</n> "Can you draw Leviathan <n>{I.e. an ancient, gigantic sea creature, living in Job's time but now apparently extinct}</n> out of the water <n>{The Heb. lacks of the water}</n> with a hook, or tie down <n>{Lit. or sink}</n> his tongue with a rope? 


text:
Will he make many supplications to you, or will he beg you for mercy? <n>{Lit. you with gentle words}</n> 


text:
"Look! Anyone's hope to capture him <n>{The Heb. lacks to capture him}</n> will prove itself false; anyone would be terrified <n>{Or subdued}</n> just by looking at him. 


text:
Who dares to open his mouth, <n>{Lit. door of his face}</n> since it is ringed with his terrible teeth! 


text:
Each is attached to the other, <n>{Lit. with his brother}</n> grasping each other so they cannot be separated. 


text:
"His snorting releases flashes of light; his eyes are like the rays <n>{Lit. eyelids}</n> of the dawn. 


text:
"Beneath him he is armored as with sharp potsherds; he tears through muddy ground like a threshing sledge through grain. <n>{The Heb. lacks through grain}</n> 


text:
He causes the deep to boil like water in <n>{The Heb. lacks water in}</n> a pot, and churns the sea like one stirs ointment. 


text:
"I know <n>{Or You know that I know}</n> that you can do anything and nothing that you plan is impossible. 


text:
You asked, <n>{The Heb. lacks You asked}</n> «Who is this that darkens counsel without knowledge? 'Well now, I have talked about what I don't understand awesome things beyond me that I don't know. 


text:
<n>{Job's Friends are Restored}</n> d After these words had been spoken by the Lord to Job, the Lord spoke to Eliphaz from Teman: "My anger is burning against you along with your two friends, since you haven't spoken correctly about me, as did my servant Job. 


text:
So take seven bulls and seven rams and bring them to my servant Job. And bring a whole burnt offering for yourselves and my servant Job will pray for you. I'll encourage him <n>{Lit. I'll lift his face}</n> by not responding as your disgraceful folly deserves, since you didn't speak about me correctly as did my servant Job. 


text:
So Eliphaz from Teman, Bildad from Shuah, and Zophar from Naamath did precisely as the Lord had spoken to them, because the Lord showed favor to <n>{Lit. lift his face}</n> Job. 


text:
<n>{Job's Prosperity Returns}</n> d The Lord restored Job's prosperity after he prayed for his friends. The Lord doubled everything that Job had once possessed. 


text:
Then all his brothers and sisters and all those who knew him before arrived. They ate food with him in his house, mourned for him, and consoled him for all the trouble that the Lord had brought and placed on him. Some <n>{Lit. A man}</n> gave him gold bullion <n>{Lit. him one kesitah ; a unit of gold weight, the value of which is unknown today}</n> and some brought <n>{Lit. and a man}</n> gold earrings. 


text:
The Lord blessed Job during the latter part of his life <n>{The Heb. lacks part of his life}</n> more than the former, since he owned 14,000 sheep, 6,000 camels, 1,000 teams of oxen <n>{Or 1,000 pairs of cattle}</n> and 1,000 female donkeys. 


text:
He named the first daughter Jemima, <n>{The name means day by day}</n> the second Keziah, <n>{The name means cinnamon}</n> and the name of the third was Keren-happuch. <n>{The name means power of antimony ; i.e. an element valued for medicinal uses}</n> 


text:
No one could find more beautiful women in the whole land than Job's daughters. Their father gave them their inheritance along with their brothers. 


text:
<n>{ The Book of}</n> <n>{ Psalms}</n> d <n>{ BOOK I (Psalms 1-41)}</n> <n>{The Righteous and the Wicked}</n> <n>{Note: (1) Verse numbers may be different from MT because the titles of many psalms in MT are part of the first verse. (2) The phrase A song of , which appears in many psalm titles, may also be translated A song by, A song for, or A song to . (3) Psalm title terminologies "a psalm of David," "a song of David," etc., may connote but do not necessarily connote authorship by Israel's King David. They are rendered herein as "a Davidic psalm," "a Davidic song," etc. (4) The traditionally unpronounced literary term Selah , which may indicate that the oral reader or cantor is to pause briefly after reading the line in which the term appears, is rendered herein as Interlude .}</n> d How blessed is the person, who does not take <n>{Lit. not walk by}</n> the advice of the wicked, who does not stand on the path with sinners, and who does not sit in the seat of mockers. 


text:
But he delights in the Lord's instruction, <n>{Or Law}</n> and meditates in his instruction <n>{Or Law}</n> day and night. 


text:
He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in its season, and whose leaf does not wither. He will prosper in everything he does. 


text:
Therefore the wicked will not escape <n>{Lit. stand in the}</n> judgment, nor will sinners have a place <n>{The Heb. lacks have a place in}</n> in the assembly of the righteous. 


text:
<n>{The Nations and God's Anointed}</n> d Why are the nations in an uproar, and their people involved in a vain plot? 


text:
As the kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers conspire together against the Lord and his anointed one, they say, <n>{The Heb. lacks say}</n> 


text:
"Let us tear off their shackles from us, <n>{The Heb. lacks from us}</n> and cast off their chains." 


text:
<n>{The Anointed King Speaks}</n> d Let me announce the decree of the L ORD that he told me: "You are my son, today I have become your father. 


text:
Ask of me, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the ends of the earth as your possession. 


text:
Kiss <n>{Or Worship}</n> the son before he becomes <n>{Or son lest he become}</n> angry, and you die where you stand. <n>{Lit. you perish in the way}</n> Indeed, his wrath can flare up quickly. How blessed are those who take refuge in him. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm, when he fled from his son Absalom.}</n> d <n>{God Delivers His Servants}</n> d L ORD , I have so many persecutors! Many are rising up against me! 


text:
I cry aloud <n>{Lit. with my voice}</n> to the L ORD , and he answers me from his holy mountain. Interlude


text:
I will not fear multitudes of <n>{Or ten thousand}</n> people, who set themselves against me on every side. 


text:
Arise, L ORD ! Deliver me, my God! For you strike the jaw of all my enemies, and you break the teeth of the wicked. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: With stringed instruments. A Davidic Psalm}</n> <n>{Trust God under Adversity}</n> d When I call, answer me, my righteous God! <n>{Or God of my righteousness}</n> When I was in distress, you set me free. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer. 


text:
You people, how long will you malign my reputation? How long will you love what is vain <n>{I.e. what has no substance}</n> and what is false? Interlude


text:
But understand this: <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> the L ORD has set apart the godly for himself! The L ORD will hear me when I cry out to him! 


text:
Be angry, yet do not sin. <n>{Cf. Eph 4:26}</n> Think about this <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> when upon your beds, and be silent. Interlude


text:
Many are asking, "Who will help us to see better days?" <n>{Lit. cause us to see good}</n> L ORD , may the light of your favor <n>{Lit. face}</n> shine upon us. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: For flutes. A Davidic Psalm}</n> <n>{A Prayer for God's Help}</n> d L ORD , listen to my words, consider my groaning. 


text:
Pay attention to my cry for help, <n>{Lit. the sound of my cry for help}</n> my king and my God, for unto you will I pray. 


text:
L ORD , in the morning you will hear my voice; in the morning I will pray <n>{Lit. arrange my prayer}</n> to you, and I will watch for your answer. <n>{The Heb. lacks for your answer}</n> 


text:
But I, because of the abundance of your gracious love, may come into your house. In awe of you, I will worship in your holy Temple. 


text:
But as for the wicked, <n>{The Heb. lacks as for the wicked}</n> they do not speak truth at all. Inside them there is only wickedness. Their throat is an open grave, on their tongue is deceitful flattery. 


text:
Declare them guilty, God! Let them fall by their own schemes. Drive them away because of their many transgressions, for they have rebelled against you. 


text:
Let all those who take refuge in you rejoice! Let them shout for joy forever, and may you protect them. Let those who love your name exult in you. 


text:
Indeed, you will bless the righteous one, L ORD , like a large shield, you will surround him with favor. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: With stringed instruments. On an eight-stringed harp. <n>{6:T Or On a lower octave}</n> A Davidic Psalm}</n> <n>{A Prayer in Times of Trouble}</n> d L ORD , in your anger, do not rebuke me, in your wrath, do not discipline me. 


text:
Be gracious to me, L ORD , because I am fading away. Heal me, because my body <n>{Or bones}</n> is distressed. 


text:
And my soul <n>{Or And I am}</n> is deeply distressed. But you, L ORD , how long do I wait? <n>{The Heb. lacks do I wait}</n> 


text:
In death, there is no memory of you. Who will give you thanks where the dead are? <n>{Lit. thanks in Sheol ; a reference to the realm of the dead}</n> 


text:
I am weary from my groaning. Every night my couch is drenched with tears, my bed is soaked through. 


text:
As for all my enemies, they will be put to shame; they will be greatly frightened and suddenly turn away ashamed. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic psalm, <n>{7:T Heb. Shiggaion}</n> which he sang to the Lord , because of the words of Cush the descendant of Benjamin.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Vindication}</n> d L ORD , my God, I seek refuge in you. Deliver me from those who persecute me! Rescue me! 


text:
Otherwise, they will rip me to shreds like a lion, tearing me <n>{The Heb. lacks me}</n> apart with no one to rescue me. <n>{The Heb. lacks me}</n> 


text:
if I have rewarded those who did me good with evil, if I have plundered my enemy without justification, 


text:
then, let my enemy pursue me, let him overtake me, and let him trample my life to the ground. InterludeLet him put my honor into the dust. 


text:
Get up, L ORD , in your anger! Rise up, because of the fury of my enemies; Arouse yourself for me; you have ordained justice. 


text:
Let the assembly of the peoples gather around you, and you will sit <n>{Lit. return}</n> high above them. 


text:
For the L ORD will judge the peoples. Judge me according to my righteousness, L ORD , and according to my integrity, Exalted One. 


text:
Let the evil of the wicked come to an end, but establish the righteous. For you are the righteous God who discerns the inner thoughts. <n>{Lit. hearts and innards}</n> 


text:
God is a righteous judge, a God who is angry with sinners <n>{The Heb. lacks sinners}</n> every day. 


text:
If the ungodly one <n>{Lit. If he}</n> doesn't repent, God will sharpen his sword; he will string his bow and prepare it. 


text:
But the wicked one <n>{Lit. But he}</n> travails with evil, he conceives malice and gives birth to lies. 


text:
The trouble <n>{Lit. His trouble}</n> he planned will return on his own head, and his violence will descend on his skull. 


text:
But as for me, I will praise the L ORD for his righteousness, and I will sing to the name of the L ORD Most High. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: On a stringed instrument. <n>{8:T Or according to a Gittite melody}</n> A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Divine Glory and Human Dignity}</n> d L ORD , our Lord, how excellent is your name in all the earth! You set your glory above the heavens! 


text:
Out of the mouths of infants and nursing babies you have established strength <n>{LXX reads praise}</n> on account of your adversaries, in order to silence the enemy and vengeful foe. 


text:
what is man that you take notice of him, or the son of man <n>{A title of Messiah (cf. Dan 7:13-14) or a Heb. synonym for a human being (cf. Dan 8:17)}</n> that you pay attention to him? 


text:
You made him a little less than divine, <n>{Or God ; or gods ; or than heavenly beings}</n> but you crowned him with glory and honor. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: Accompanied by female voices. <n>{9:T Or according to the tune «Death of a Son'}</n> A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Cry for God's Justice}</n> d <n>{Psalms 9 & 10 constitute a single psalm in the LXX.}</n> I will give thanks to the L ORD with all my heart, I will declare all your wonderful deeds. 


text:
The enemy has perished, reduced to ruins forever. You uprooted their cities, the very memory of them vanished. 


text:
But the L ORD sits on his throne <n>{The Heb. lacks on his throne}</n> forever; his throne is established for judgment. 


text:
Be gracious to me, L ORD , take note of my affliction, because of those who hate me. You snatch me away from the gates of death, 


text:
so I may declare everything for which you should be praised <n>{Lit. declare all your praise}</n> in the gates of the daughter of Zion, <n>{I.e. Jerusalem}</n> so I will rejoice in your deliverance. 


text:
The nations have sunk down into the pit they made, their feet are ensnared in the trap <n>{Lit. net}</n> they set. 


text:
The L ORD has made himself known, executing judgment. The wicked are ensnared by what their hands have made. Interlude <n>{Heb. Higgaion Selah}</n> 


text:
The wicked will turn back to where the dead are <n>{Lit. to Sheol ; a reference to the realm of the dead}</n> all the nations that have forgotten God. 


text:
For he will not always overlook the plight of the poor, nor will the hope of the afflicted perish forever. 


text:
<n>{A Prayer for Judging the Wicked}</n> d <n>{Psalms 9 & 10 constitute a single psalm in the LXX.}</n> Why do you stand far away, L ORD ? Why do you hide in times of distress? 


text:
The wicked one arrogantly pursues the afflicted, <n>{Or the poor}</n> who are trapped in the schemes he devises. 


text:
With haughty arrogance, the wicked thinks, "God will not seek justice." <n>{The Heb. lacks justice}</n> He always presumes "There is no God." 


text:
Their ways always seem prosperous. Your judgments are on high, far away from them. They scoff at all their enemies. 


text:
They say to themselves, "We will not be moved throughout all time, and we will not experience adversity." 


text:
Their mouth is full of curses, lies, and oppression, their tongues <n>{Lit. under his tongue}</n> spread trouble and iniquity. 


text:
Their eyes secretly watch the helpless, lying in wait like a lion in his den. They lie in wait to catch the afflicted. They catch the afflicted when they pull him into their net. 


text:
Why do the wicked despise God and say to themselves, "God <n>{Lit. He}</n> will not seek justice." ? <n>{The Heb. lacks justice}</n> 


text:
But you do see! You take note of trouble and grief in order to take the matter into your own hand. The helpless one commits himself <n>{The Heb. lacks himself}</n> to you; you have been the orphan's helper. 


text:
Break the arm of the wicked and evil man; so that when you seek out his wickedness you will find it no more. 


text:
L ORD , you heard the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen them, <n>{Lit. strengthen their heart}</n> you will listen carefully, 


text:
to do justice for the orphan <n>{Or fatherless}</n> and the oppressed, so that men of the earth may cause terror no more. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Song. <n>{11:T The Heb. lacks A song}</n> }</n> <n>{Confident Trust in God}</n> d I take refuge in the L ORD . So how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains." ? 


text:
Look, the wicked have bent their bow and placed their arrow <n>{So MT DSS 5/6HevPs; DSS 4QCatena A LXX read arrows}</n> on the string, <n>{So MT; LXX reads arrows for the quiver}</n> to shoot from the darkness <n>{So MT DSS; LXX reads shoot on a moonless night}</n> at the upright in heart. 


text:
The L ORD is in his holy Temple; the L ORD's throne is in the heavens. His eyes see, his glance <n>{Lit. eyelids}</n> examines humanity. <n>{Lit. examines the children of men}</n> 


text:
He rains on the wicked burning coals and sulfur; a scorching wind is their destiny. <n>{Lit. the portion of their cup}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: On an eight stringed harp. <n>{12:T Or on a lower octave}</n> A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Human and Divine Words Contrasted}</n> d Help, L ORD , for godly people no longer exist; trustworthy people have disappeared from humanity. <n>{Lit. from among the children of men}</n> 


text:
Everyone speaks lies to his neighbor; they speak with flattering lips and hidden motives. <n>{Lit. with slippery lips and a double heart}</n> 


text:
those who say, "By our tongues we will prevail; our lips belong to us. Who is master <n>{Or lord}</n> over us?" 


text:
"Because the poor are being oppressed, because the needy are sighing, I will now arise," says the L ORD , "I will establish in safety those who yearn for it." 


text:
The words of the L ORD are pure, like silver refined in an earthen furnace, purified seven times over. 


text:
You, L ORD , will keep them <n>{So MT DSS 5/6HevPs 11QPs c ; LXX reads us}</n> safe, you will guard them <n>{So MT DSS 5/6HevPs 11QPs c ; LXX reads us}</n> from this generation forever. 


text:
The wicked, however, <n>{The Heb. lacks however}</n> keep walking around, exalting the vileness of human beings. <n>{Lit. of children of men}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance}</n> d How long? L ORD , will you forget me forever? <n>{Or How long, Lord , will you forget me? Forever?}</n> How long will you hide your face from me? 


text:
How long must I struggle in my soul at night and have sorrow in my heart during the day? How long will my enemy rise up against me? 


text:
Otherwise, my enemy will say, "I have overcome him;" Otherwise, my persecutor will rejoice when I am shaken. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{The Fool and God's Response}</n> d Fools say to themselves, "There is no God." They are corrupt and commit evil deeds; not one of them practices what is good. 


text:
The L ORD looks down from the heavens upon humanity <n>{Lit. upon the sons of Adam}</n> to see if anyone shows discernment as he searches for God. 


text:
All have turned away, together they have become corrupt; no one practices what is good, not even one. 


text:
Will those who do evil ever learn? They devour my people like they devour bread, and never call on the Lord . 


text:
There they are seized with terror, because God is with those who are <n>{Lit. with the generation of the}</n> righteous. 


text:
You would frustrate the plans of the oppressed, <n>{Or the poor}</n> but the L ORD is their refuge. 


text:
May Israel's deliverance come from Zion! When the L ORD restores the fortunes of his people, Jacob will rejoice, and Israel will be glad. <n>{Cf. Ps 53:1-6}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Welcomed into God's Presence}</n> d L ORD , who may stay in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy mountain? 


text:
The one who does not slander with his tongue, who does no evil to his neighbor, and who does not destroy his friend's reputation. 


text:
The one who despises those who are utterly wicked, but who honors the one who fears the L ORD , who keeps his word even when it hurts and does not change, 


text:
who does not loan his money with interest, and who does not take a bribe against those who are innocent. The one who does these things will stand firm <n>{Lit. won't be shaken}</n> forever. 


text:
<n>{A special Davidic Psalm. <n>{16:T Heb. miktam}</n> }</n> <n>{Trust in the Face of Death}</n> d Keep me safe, God, for I take refuge in you. 


text:
Those who hurry after another god <n>{The Heb. lacks god}</n> will have many sorrows; I will not present <n>{Lit. pour out}</n> their drink offerings of blood, nor will my lips speak <n>{Lit. lift up on my lips}</n> their names. 


text:
I will bless the L ORD who has counseled me; indeed, my conscience instructs <n>{Lit. thoughts instruct}</n> me during the night. 


text:
I have set the L ORD before me continually; because he stands at my right hand, I will stand firm. <n>{Lit. not be shaken}</n> 


text:
Therefore, my heart is glad, my whole being <n>{Lit. glory}</n> rejoices, and my body will dwell securely. 


text:
For you will not leave my soul in Sheol, <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> you will not allow your holy one to experience corruption. <n>{Lit. to see the Pit ; i.e. the realm of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
You cause me to know the path of life; in your presence is joyful abundance, at your right hand there are pleasures forever. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Prayer.}</n> <n>{A Cry for Justice}</n> d Lord , hear my just plea! Pay attention to my cry! Listen to my prayer, since it does not come from lying lips. 


text:
When you probe my heart, and examine me at night; when you refine me, you will find nothing wrong, <n>{The Heb. lacks wrong}</n> for I have determined that I will not transgress with my mouth. 


text:
As for the ways of mankind, I have, according to the words of your lips, avoided the ways of the violent. 


text:
Show forth your gracious love, save those who take refuge in you from those who rebel against your sovereign power. <n>{Lit. against your right hand}</n> 


text:
Protect me as the most precious part of the eye; <n>{Lit. as the pupil of the daughter of the eye}</n> hide me under the shadow of your wings 


text:
from the wicked <n>{Lit. face of the wicked}</n> who have afflicted me, from my enemies who have surrounded me. 


text:
They are imprisoned by their own prosperity, <n>{Lit. fat}</n> they have boasted proudly with their mouth. 


text:
Now they have encircled our paths <n>{So MT; DSS 11QPs c LXX read have expelled me}</n> and are determined <n>{Lit. and have set their eyes}</n> to cast us down to the ground. 


text:
from men, Lord , by your hand from men who belong to this world, whose reward is only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> in this <n>{So MT; DSS 11QPs c LXX read their}</n> life. But as for your treasured ones, may their stomachs be full, may their children have an abundance, and may they leave wealth to their offspring. 


text:
But as for me, justified, I will behold your face; when I awake, your presence <n>{Lit. form, likeness}</n> will satisfy me. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: By the servant of the Lord , David, who spoke the words of this song to the Lord on the day when the Lord delivered him from the hands of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.}</n> <n>{Gratitude for Victory}</n> d He said: "I love you, Lord, my strength. 


text:
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer, my God, my stronghold <n>{Lit. rock}</n> in whom I take refuge, my shield, the glory <n>{Lit. horn}</n> of my salvation, and my high tower." 


text:
The cords of death entangled me; the rivers of Belial <n>{I.e. the forces of death and destruction}</n> made me afraid. 


text:
The cords of Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> surrounded me; the snares of death confronted me. 


text:
In my distress I cried to the Lord ; to my God I cried for help. From his Temple he heard my voice; my cry reached his ears. 


text:
The world shook and trembled; the foundations of the mountains quaked, they shook because he was angry. 


text:
In his anger smoke poured out of his nostrils, and consuming fire from his mouth; coals were lit from it. 


text:
Then the Lord thundered in <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs c ; LXX Targ Vg (cf. 2 Sam 22:14) reads from}</n> the heavens, and the Most High sounded aloud, calling for hail stones and flashes of fire. <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs c ; LXX lacks calling for hail stones and flashes of fire}</n> 


text:
Then the channels of the sea could be seen, and the foundations of the earth were uncovered because of your rebuke, Lord , because of the blast from the breath of your nostrils. 


text:
<n>{God's Reward to the Righteous}</n> d The Lord will reward me because I am righteous; because my hands are clean he will restore me; 


text:
Indeed, you deliver the oppressed, <n>{Or poor}</n> but you bring down those who exalt themselves in their own eyes. 


text:
With your help <n>{The Heb. lacks help}</n> I will run through an army, with help from <n>{The Heb. lacks help from}</n> my God I leap over walls. 


text:
As for God, his way is upright; <n>{Or blameless}</n> the word of God is pure; he is a shield to all those who take refuge in him. 


text:
<n>{The Acts of God for the Righteous}</n> d For who is God but the Lord , and who is a Rock other than our God? 


text:
You have given to me the shield of your deliverance, and your right hand holds me up; your gentleness made me great. 


text:
They cried out for deliverance, but there was no one to deliver; they cried out <n>{The Heb. lacks they cried out}</n> to the Lord , but he did not answer them. 


text:
I ground them like wind-swept dust; I emptied them out <n>{So MT DSS 5/6HevPs; LXX reads I will grind them down}</n> like dirt in the street. 


text:
You rescued me from conflict with the people; you made me head of the nations. People who did not know me will serve me. 


text:
When they hear of me, <n>{Lit. At the hearing of the ear}</n> they will obey me; foreigners will submit to me. 


text:
who delivers me from my enemies. Truly you will exalt me above those who oppose me; you will deliver me from the violent person. 


text:
He is the one who gives victories to his king; who shows gracious love to his anointed, to David and his seed forever. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{God's Revelation in the Heavens}</n> d The heavens are declaring the glory of God, and their expanse shows the work of his hands. 


text:
yet their message <n>{Or sound ; so LXX; MT DSS 11QPs c Syr read line}</n> goes out into all the world, and their words to the ends of the earth. He has set up a tent for the sun in the heavens, <n>{Lit. them}</n> 


text:
which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, or like a champion who rejoices at the beginning of a race. 


text:
<n>{God's Revelation in the Law}</n> d The Law of the Lord is perfect, restoring life. The testimony of the Lord is steadfast, making foolish people wise. 


text:
The precepts of the Lord are upright, making the heart rejoice. The commandment of the Lord is pure, giving light to the eyes. 


text:
The fear of the Lord is clean, standing forever. The judgments of the Lord are true; they are altogether righteous. 


text:
They are more desirable than gold, even much fine gold. They are sweeter than honey, even the drippings from a honeycomb. 


text:
Preserve your servant from arrogant people; <n>{Or from presumptuous sins}</n> do not let them rule over me. Then I will be upright <n>{Or perfect , or blameless}</n> and acquitted of great wickedness. 


text:
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, Lord , my Rock and my Redeemer. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Victory}</n> d May the Lord answer you in the day of distress; may the name of the God of Jacob <n>{I.e. Israel}</n> protect you. 


text:
May we shout for joy at your deliverance and unfurl our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord fulfill all your petitions. 


text:
Now I know that the Lord has delivered his anointed; he has answered him from his sanctuary with the strength of his right hand of deliverance. 


text:
Some boast <n>{The Heb. lacks Some boast}</n> in chariots, others in horses; but we will boast in <n>{Or remember}</n> the name of the Lord our God. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Praise for the LORD's Deliverance}</n> d The king rejoices in your strength, Lord. How greatly he rejoices in your deliverance. 


text:
You have granted him the desire of his heart, and have not withheld what his lips requested. Interlude


text:
Indeed, you have given him eternal blessings; you will make him glad with the joy of your presence. 


text:
The king trusts in the Lord ; because of the gracious love of the Most High, he will stand firm. <n>{Lit. will not be shaken}</n> 


text:
When you appear, you will set them ablaze like a fire furnace. In his wrath, the Lord will consume them, and the fire will devour them. 


text:
You will destroy their descendants <n>{Lit. his fruit}</n> from the earth, even their offspring from the ranks <n>{Lit. children}</n> of mankind. 


text:
Indeed, you will make them retreat, <n>{Lit. will turn the shoulder}</n> when you aim your bow <n>{Lit. when your bow string is ready}</n> at their faces. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: To the tune of <n>{22:T Lit. According to}</n> "Doe of the Dawn" .}</n> 1 <n>{Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{God Delivers His Suffering Servant}</n> d My God! My God! Why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far from delivering me from my groaning words? 


text:
My God, I cry out to you throughout the day, but you do not answer; and throughout the night, but I have no rest. <n>{Lit. but there is no silence for me}</n> 


text:
They say, <n>{The Heb. lacks They say}</n> "Commit yourself to the Lord ; perhaps the Lord <n>{Lit. he}</n> will deliver him, perhaps he will cause him to escape, since he delights in him." 


text:
I am poured out like water; all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me. 


text:
My strength is dried up like broken pottery; my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth, <n>{Lit. to my jaws}</n> and you have brought me down to the dust of death. 


text:
For dogs have surrounded me; a gang of those who practice of evil has encircled me. They gouged <n>{So LXX Syr DSS 5/6 HevPS XHev/Se4; MT reads Like a lion}</n> my hands and my <n>{So MT; LXX lacks my}</n> feet. 


text:
I will declare your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation, I will praise you, saying, <n>{The Heb. lacks saying}</n> 


text:
"All who fear the Lord , praise him! All the seed of Jacob, glorify him! All the seed of Israel, fear him! 


text:
For he does not despise nor detest the afflicted person; he does not hide his face from him, but he hears him when he cries out to him." 


text:
My praise in the great congregation is because of you; I will pay my vows before those who fear you. <n>{Lit. him}</n> 


text:
The afflicted will eat and be satisfied; those who seek the Lord will praise him, "May you <n>{Lit. your heart}</n> live forever!" 


text:
All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord ; all the families of the nations will bow in submission to the Lord . 


text:
All the prosperous people will eat and bow down in submission. All those who are about to go down to the grave <n>{Lit. dust}</n> will bow down in submission, along with the one who can no longer keep himself alive. 


text:
Our <n>{The Heb. lacks our}</n> descendants will serve him, and that generation will be told about the Lord. 


text:
They will come and declare his righteousness to a people yet to be born; indeed, he has accomplished it! 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{The LORD Shepherds His People}</n> d The Lord is the one who is shepherding me; I lack nothing. 


text:
He revives my life; he leads me in pathways that are righteous for the sake of his name. <n>{I.e. his reputation}</n> 


text:
Even when I walk through a valley of deep darkness, <n>{Or valley of the shadow of death}</n> I will not be afraid because you are with me. Your rod and your staff they comfort me. 


text:
You prepare a table before me, even in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 


text:
Truly, goodness and gracious love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will remain in <n>{MT DSS 5/6HevPs read will return to ; LXX reads and my residing will be}</n> the Lord's Temple forever. <n>{Lit. for the length of days}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Song for the King of Glory}</n> d The earth and everything in it exists for the Lord the world and those who live in it. 


text:
Indeed, he founded it upon the seas, he established it upon deep waters. <n>{Lit. rivers ; i.e. the subterranean waters}</n> 


text:
Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord ? <n>{I.e. the temple mount}</n> Who may stand in his Holy Place? 


text:
The one who has innocent hands and a pure heart; the person who does not delight in what is false and does not swear an oath deceitfully. 


text:
This person <n>{Lit. he}</n> will receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation. 


text:
This is the generation that seeks him. Those who seek your face are the true seed of <n>{The Heb. lacks the true seed of}</n> Jacob. Interlude


text:
Lift up your heads, <n>{I.e. Open}</n> gates! Be lifted up, ancient doors, so the King of Glory may come in. 


text:
<n>{Davidic <n>{25:T This acrostic psalm begins each verse with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet}</n> }</n> <n>{A Prayer for Help and Forgiveness}</n> d I will lift up my soul to you, Lord . 


text:
Indeed, no one who waits on you will be ashamed, but those who offend for no reason will be put to shame. 


text:
Guide me in your truth and teach me; for you are the God who delivers me. All day long I have waited for you. 


text:
Do not remember my youthful sins and transgressions; but remember me in light of your gracious love, in light of your goodness, Lord . 


text:
He will guide the humble <n>{Or afflicted}</n> to justice; he will teach the humble <n>{Or afflicted}</n> his way. 


text:
All the paths of the Lord lead to gracious love and truth for those who keep his covenant and his decrees. <n>{Or testimonies}</n> 


text:
My eyes look to the Lord continually, because he's the one who releases my feet from the trap. <n>{Lit. net}</n> 


text:
<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{A Man of Integrity Pleads for Justice}</n> d Vindicate me, LORD, because I have walked in integrity; I have trusted in the Lord without wavering. 


text:
Examine me, Lord , and inspect me! Test my heart and mind. <n>{Lit. kidneys ; i.e. the center of emotions}</n> 


text:
Do not group me <n>{Lit. my soul}</n> with sinners, nor include me <n>{The Heb. lacks include me}</n> with men who shed blood. 


text:
<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{Confidence in the LORD}</n> d The Lord is my light and my salvation whom will I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom will I be afraid? 


text:
When those who practice evil, my enemies, and my oppressors come near me to devour my flesh, they stumble and fall. 


text:
If an army encamps against me, my heart will not fear. If a war is launched against me, I will even trust in that situation. 


text:
I have asked one thing from the Lord ; it is what I really seek: that I may remain in the Lord's Temple all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord ; and to inquire in his Temple. 


text:
For he will conceal me in his shelter on the day of evil; He will hide me in a secluded chamber within his tent; He will place me on a high rock. 


text:
Now my head will be lifted up above my enemies, even those who surround me. I will sacrifice in his tent with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melodies to the Lord . 


text:
My mind recalls your word, <n>{The Heb. lacks your word}</n> "Seek my face," so your face, Lord , I will seek. 


text:
Do not hide your face from me; do not turn away in anger from your servant. You have been my help, therefore do not abandon or forsake me, God of my salvation. 


text:
Do not hand me over to the desires of my enemies; for false witnesses have risen up against me; even the one who breathes out violence. 


text:
<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Help}</n> d To you, Lord , I cry out! My Rock, do not refuse to answer me. <n>{Lit. do not be silent to me}</n> If you remain silent, I will become like those who descend into the Pit. <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
Hear the sound of my supplications when I cry to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your most holy sanctuary. 


text:
Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who practice iniquity, who speak peace to their neighbors while harboring evil in their hearts. 


text:
Reward them according to their deeds; according to the evil of their actions. Reward them based on what they do; <n>{Lit. them according to work of their hands}</n> give them what they deserve. 


text:
Because they do not understand the deeds of the Lord or the work of his hands, He will tear them down and never build them up. 


text:
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I received help. My heart rejoices, and I give thanks to him with my song. 


text:
The Lord is the strength of his people; <n>{Lit. of them}</n> he is a refuge of deliverance for his anointed. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Praise to the Majestic LORD}</n> d Ascribe to the Lord , you heavenly beings; ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. 


text:
The voice of the Lord was heard <n>{The Heb. lacks heard}</n> above the waters; the God of glory thundered; the Lord was heard <n>{The Heb. lacks heard}</n> over many waters. 


text:
He makes them stagger like a calf, even Lebanon and Sirion <n>{I.e. Mount Hermon; cf. Deut 3:9}</n> like a young wild ox. 


text:
The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the voice of the Lord shakes <n>{The Heb. lacks shakes}</n> the wilderness of Kadesh. 


text:
The voice of the Lord causes deer to give birth, and strips the forest bare. In his Temple all of them shout, "Glory!" 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm for the dedication of the Temple.}</n> <n>{Thanksgiving for Deliverance}</n> d I exalt you, Lord , for you have lifted me up, and my enemies could not gloat over me. 


text:
Lord , you brought me from death; <n>{Lit. Sheol , a reference to the realm of the dead}</n> you kept me alive so that I did not descend into the Pit. <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
For his wrath is only momentary; yet his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may lodge for the night, but shouts of joy will come in the morning. 


text:
By your favor, Lord , you established me as a strong mountain; Then you hid your face, and I was dismayed. 


text:
"What profit is there in my death <n>{Lit. my blood}</n> if I go down to the Pit? <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> Can dust worship you? Can it proclaim your faithfulness?" 


text:
You have turned my mourning into dancing; you took off my sackcloth and clothed me with a garment of joy, 


text:
so that I may sing praise to you and not remain silent. Lord , my God, I will give you thanks forever! 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Prayer and Thanksgiving}</n> d In you, Lord , I have taken refuge. Let me never be ashamed. Because you are righteous, deliver me! 


text:
Listen to me, and deliver me quickly. Become a rock of safety for me, a fortified citadel to deliver me; 


text:
I will rejoice and be glad in your gracious love, for you see my affliction and take note that my soul is distressed. 


text:
You have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy, but you have set my feet in a sturdy <n>{Lit. broad}</n> place. 


text:
Be gracious to me, Lord , for I am in distress. My eyes have been consumed by my grief along with my soul and my body. 


text:
My life is consumed by sorrow, my years with groaning. My strength has faltered because of my iniquity; <n>{So MT DSS 5/6HevPs; LXX reads strength grew weak in poverty}</n> my bones have been consumed. 


text:
I have become an object of reproach to all my enemies, especially to my neighbors. I have become an object of fear to my friends, and whoever sees me outside runs away from me. 


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I have heard the slander of many; it is like terror all around me, as they conspire together and plot to take my life. 


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Let me not be ashamed, Lord , for I have called upon you. Let the wicked be put to shame, let them be silent in the next life. <n>{Lit. in Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> 


text:
Let the lying lips be made still, especially those who speak arrogantly against the righteous with pride and contempt. 


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How great is your goodness that you have reserved for those who fear you, that you have set in place for those who take refuge in you, in the presence of the children of men. 


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You will hide them in the secret place of your presence, away from the conspiracies of men. You will hide them in your tent, away from their contentious tongues. 


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Blessed be the Lord ! In a marvelous way he demonstrated his gracious love to me, when I was in a city under siege. 


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When I said in my panic, "I have been cut off in your sight," then you surely heard the voice of my prayer in my plea to you for help. 


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Love the Lord , all his godly ones! The Lord preserves the faithful and repays those who act with proud motives. 


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<n>{A Davidic instruction. <n>{32:T Lit. maskil}</n> }</n> <n>{The Blessings of Forgiveness}</n> d How blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 


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How blessed is the person against whom the Lord does not charge iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. 


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When I kept silent about my sin, <n>{The Heb. lacks about my sin}</n> my body <n>{Lit. bones}</n> wasted away by my groaning all day long. 


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For your hand was heavy upon me day and night; my strength was exhausted as in a summer drought. Interlude


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My sin I acknowledged to you; my iniquity I did not hide. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord ." And you forgave the guilt of my sin! Interlude


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Therefore every godly person should pray to you at such a time. <n>{Lit. at a time of finding}</n> Surely a flood of great waters will not reach him. 


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You are my hiding place; you will deliver me from trouble and surround me with shouts of deliverance. Interlude


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I will instruct you and teach you concerning the path you should walk; I will direct you with my eye. 


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Don't be like a horse or mule, without understanding. They are held in check by a bit and bridle in their mouths; otherwise they will not remain near you. 


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Righteous ones, be glad in the Lord and rejoice! Shout for joy, all of you who are upright in heart! 


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<n>{Praise to the Creator and Deliverer}</n> d Rejoice in the Lord , righteous ones; for the praise of the upright is beautiful. 


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By the word of the Lord the heavens were made; all the heavenly bodies <n>{Lit. all their host}</n> by the breath of his mouth. 


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<n>{By David, when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away. So David <n>{34:T Lit. he}</n> left.}</n> <n>{Learning about God's Deliverance}</n> d <n>{This Psalm is an acrostic poem.}</n> I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise will be in my mouth continually. 


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Who among you <n>{Lit. Who is the person who}</n> desires life, and wants long life in order to see good? 


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The face of the Lord is set against those who do evil, and he will remove people's recollection of them from the earth. 


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The Lord redeems the lives of his servants; and none of those who trust in him will be held guilty. 


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<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance}</n> d Argue my case, <n>{The Heb. lacks my case}</n> Lord , against those who argue against me. Fight against those who fight against me. 


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Take out the spear and the ax to confront the one who pursues me; say to me, "I am your deliverer!" 


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Let those who seek my life be ashamed and disgraced; let those who plot evil against me be driven back and confounded. 


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Let destruction come upon them <n>{Lit. him}</n> unawares, and let the net that he hid catch him; let him fall into destruction. 


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All my bones will say, "Lord , who is like you? Who delivers the weak from the one who is stronger than he, and the weak and the needy from the one who wants to rob him?" 


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But when they were sick, I wore sackcloth, humbled myself with fasting, and prayed from my heart repeatedly for them. <n>{The Heb. lacks for them}</n> 


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I paced about as for my friend or my brother, and fell down mourning as one weeps for one's mother. 


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But when I stumbled, they rejoiced and gathered together. They gathered together against me attackers whom I did not know. They tore me apart and would not stop. 


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Malicious mockers <n>{So LXX; DSS 4QPs a read They mocked me viciously ; MT reads Mockers of cake}</n> they gnashed <n>{So DSS 4QPs a LXX; MT reads gnashing}</n> their teeth against me. 


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Lord, how long will you just watch? Rescue me from their destruction, my precious life from these young lions. 


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Then I will give you thanks in front of the great congregation; in the midst of the mighty throng I will praise you. 


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Do not let my deceitful enemies gloat over me, nor let those who hate me without justification mock me with their eyes. 


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They open their mouth wide against me, claiming, "Yes! Yes! We saw him do <n>{The Heb. lacks him do}</n> it with our own eyes!" 


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Don't let them say in their hearts, "Yes! We got what we wanted." Don't let them say, "We have swallowed him up." 


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Instead, let those who gloat over the evil directed against me be ashamed and confounded together; Let those who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and dishonor. 


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Let those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and rejoice! Let them continually say, "Magnify the Lord , who delights in giving peace to <n>{So MT; DSS 4QPsa LXX read Lord , you who delight in the welfare of}</n> his servant." 


text:
<n>{To the Director: By the servant of the Lord , David.}</n> <n>{An Oracle from the LORD}</n> d An oracle that came to me <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs a ; lit. oracle in the midst of my heart ; Syr Origen read of his heart}</n> about the transgressions of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 


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He flatters himself <n>{Lit. himself in his own eyes}</n> too much <n>{The Heb. lacks too much}</n> to discover his transgression and hate it. 


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He devises iniquity on his bed and is determined to follow a path that is not good. He does not resist evil. 


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<n>{Praise to the LORD}</n> d Your gracious love, Lord, reaches to the heavens; your truth <n>{Or faithfulness}</n> extends to the skies. <n>{Or clouds}</n> 


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Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; your justice is like the great depths of the sea. <n>{The Heb. lacks of the sea}</n> You deliver both <n>{The Heb. lacks both}</n> people and animals, Lord . 


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How precious is your gracious love, God! The children of men take refuge in the shadow of your wings. 


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They are refreshed from the abundance of your house; You cause them to drink from the river of your pleasures. 


text:
Send forth your gracious love to those who know you, and your righteousness to those who are upright in heart. 


text:
<n>{Davidic <n>{37:T This acrostic psalm begins each verse with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet}</n> }</n> <n>{Patiently Trust in God}</n> d Don't be angry because of those who do evil, do not be jealous because of those who commit iniquity. 


text:
He will bring forth your righteousness as a light, and your justice as the noonday sun. <n>{The Heb. lacks sun}</n> 


text:
Be silent in the Lord's presence and wait patiently for him. Don't be angry because of the one whose way prospers or the one who implements evil schemes. 


text:
Those who do evil will perish. But those who wait <n>{I.e. trust}</n> on the Lord will inherit the land. 


text:
Yet a little while longer, and the wicked will be no more. You will search for his place, but he will not be there. 


text:
The wicked take out a sword and bend the bow, to bring down the humble and the poor to slay those who are righteous in conduct. 


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Indeed, the wicked will perish. The Lord's enemies will be consumed like flowers <n>{Lit. like glorious things}</n> in the fields. They will vanish like <n>{So LXX DSS 4QpPs a ; MT reads in}</n> smoke. 


text:
For those blessed by God <n>{Lit. him}</n> will inherit the land, but those cursed by him will be cut off. 


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I once was young and now I am old, but I have not seen a righteous person forsaken or his descendants begging for bread. 


text:
Depart from evil, and do good, and you will live in the land <n>{The Heb. lacks in the land}</n> forever. 


text:
Indeed, the Lord loves justice, and he will not abandon his godly ones. They are kept safe forever, but the lawless will be chased away, <n>{So LXX DSS 4QpPs a ; the Heb. lacks this line}</n> and the descendants of the wicked will be cut off. 


text:
but the Lord will not let him fall into his hands. He will not be condemned when he is put on trial. 


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Wait on the Lord , Keep faithful to his way, and he will exalt you to possess the land. You will see the wicked cut off. 


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But then he <n>{So MT; LXX 4QpPs a read I}</n> passed away; <n>{So MT; LXX reads I passed by ; Syr Hieronymus DSS 4QpPs a read I passed by in front of him}</n> in fact, he simply was not there. When I looked for him, he could not be found. 


text:
But deliverance for the righteous one comes from the Lord ; he is their strength in times of distress. 


text:
The Lord helps and delivers them; he will deliver them from the wicked, and he will save them because they have sought refuge in him. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm: As a Reminder.}</n> <n>{The Outcast Cries Out}</n> d Lord ! Do not rebuke me in your anger; do not correct me in your wrath, 


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As for my friends and my neighbors, they stand aloof from my distress; even my close relatives stand at a distance. 


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Those who seek my life lay snares for me; those who seek to do me harm brag all day long about their wicked planning. 


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But my enemies are alive and well; <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4QPs a lack this line}</n> those who hate me <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4QPs a read Those who are my enemies}</n> for no reason are numerous. <n>{DSS 4QPs a read numerous, and many are those who hate me by deceiving me ; cf. Ps 35:19; 69:5}</n> 


text:
They <n>{So LXX DSS 4QPs a ; MT reads And they}</n> reward my good with evil, opposing me because I seek to do good. <n>{So MT; DSS 4QPs a read evil plunder me instead of a good thing}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: To Jeduthun. A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer about Life's Priorities}</n> d I told myself, "I will keep watch over my tongue to keep from sinning. I will muzzle my mouth when the wicked are around." 


text:
I was as silent as a mute person; I said nothing, not even something good, and my distress deepened. 


text:
My heart within me became incensed; <n>{Lit. hot}</n> as I thought about it, the fire burned. Then I <n>{Lit. Then my mouth}</n> spoke out: 


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"Lord , let me know how my life ends, <n>{Lit. my end}</n> and the standard by which you will measure <n>{Lit. the measure of}</n> my days, whatever it is! Then I will know how transient my life is. 


text:
Look, you have made my life span fit in your hand; It is nothing compared to yours. Surely every person at their best is a puff of wind. Interlude


text:
In fact, people walk around as shadows. Surely, they busy themselves for nothing, heaping up possessions but not knowing who will get them. 


text:
You rebuke by chastening a man with the consequence of iniquities; you destroy what is attractive to him, as one would treat a moth. Indeed, every person is a puff of wind. Interlude


text:
Hear my prayer, Lord, pay attention to my cry, and do not ignore my tears. I am an alien in your presence, a stranger just like my ancestors were. 


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Stop looking at me with chastisement, <n>{The Heb. lacks with chastisement}</n> so I can smile again, before I depart and am no more. 


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<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{Prayer for Help and Praise to God}</n> d I waited expectantly <n>{Or eagerly}</n> for the Lord , and he took notice of me and heard my cry. 


text:
He plucked me out of a pit of confusion, <n>{Or destruction}</n> even out of the quicksand; he placed my feet on a rock and established my steps. 


text:
He put a new song in my mouth, praise to our God! Many will watch and be in awe, and they will place their trust in the Lord . 


text:
How blessed is that strong person who places his trust in the Lord, and who has not acknowledged the proud nor resorted to lies. 


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Lord , my God, You have done great things: marvelous works and your thoughts toward us. There is no one who compares to you! I will try to recite your actions, <n>{Lit. recite them}</n> even though there are too many to number. 


text:
You take no delight in sacrifices and offerings you have prepared my ears to listen <n>{The Heb. lacks to listen}</n> you require no burnt offerings or sacrifices for sin. 


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In the great congregation I have proclaimed the righteous good news. Behold, I did not seal my lips, Lord , as you know. 


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I have not ignored <n>{Lit. not covered over}</n> your righteousness in my heart; instead, I have proclaimed your faithfulness and deliverance. I have not concealed your gracious love and truthfulness from the great congregation. 


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Lord , do not withhold your mercy <n>{Lit. mercies}</n> from me, for your gracious love and truthfulness will keep me safe continuously. 


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Innumerable evils have surrounded me; my iniquities have overtaken me so that I cannot see. They are more in number than the hair on my head, and my courage <n>{Lit. heart}</n> has forsaken me. 


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May those who seek to destroy my life be ashamed and confounded; let them be driven backwards and humiliated, particularly those who wish me evil. 


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Let all who seek you shout for joy and be glad in you. May those who love your deliverance say, "The Lord be magnified!" continuously. 


text:
But I am poor and needy; may the Lord think about me. You are my help and deliverer. My God, do not tarry too long! 


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<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{When Things Go Wrong}</n> d Blessed is the one who is considerate of the destitute; <n>{Or poor}</n> the LORD will deliver him when the times are evil. 


text:
The LORD will protect him and keep him alive; he will be blessed in the land; and he will not be handed over to the desires of his enemies. 


text:
As for my enemies, with malice they said, "When will he die and memory of <n>{The Heb. lacks memory of}</n> his name perish?" 


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The one who comes to visit me speaks lies; in his heart he thinks slanderous things about me and goes around spreading them. 


text:
As for my best friend, the one in whom I trusted, the one who ate my bread, even he has insulted <n>{Lit. has lifted up his heel against}</n> me! 


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In this way I will know that you are pleased with me, and that my enemies will not shout in triumph over me. 


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As for me, you will maintain my just cause, and you will cause me to stand in your presence forever. 


text:
<n>{ BOOK II (Psalms 42-72)}</n> <n>{To the Director: An instruction <n>{42:T Lit. maskil}</n> of the Sons of Korah.}</n> <n>{Hope in God When Times of Trouble Come}</n> d As an antelope pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, God. 


text:
My tears have been my food day and night, while people <n>{The Heb. lacks people}</n> keep asking me all day long, "Where is your God?" 


text:
These things I will recall as I pour out my troubles <n>{Lit. soul}</n> within me: I used to go with the crowd in a procession to the house of God, accompanied with shouts of joy and thanksgiving. 


text:
Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for once again I will praise him, since his presence saves me. 


text:
My God, my soul feels depressed <n>{Lit. soul is bowed down}</n> within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of Jordan, from the heights of Hermon, even from the foothills. <n>{Or from Mount Mizar}</n> 


text:
Deep waters call out to what is deeper still; <n>{Lit. Deep calls to deep}</n> at the roar of your waterfalls all your breakers and your waves swirled over me. 


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By day the Lord will command his gracious love, and by night his song is with me a prayer to the God of my life. 


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I will ask God, my Rock, "Why have you forsaken me? Why do I go around mourning under the enemy's oppression?" 


text:
Like the shattering of my bones are the taunts of my oppressors, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 


text:
Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for once again I will praise him, since his presence saves me and he is my God. 


text:
<n>{God is my Hope during Times of Trouble}</n> d <n>{Some Heb. MSS constitute Psalms 42 and 43 as a single psalm.}</n> You be my judge, <n>{Lit. Judge me}</n> God, and plead my case against an unholy nation; rescue me from the deceitful and unjust man. 


text:
Since you are the God who strengthens me, why have you forsaken me? Why do I go around mourning under the enemy's oppression?" 


text:
Send forth your light and your truth so they may guide me. Let them bring me to your holy mountain and to your dwelling places. <n>{Or tents}</n> 


text:
Then I will approach the altar of God, even to God in whom my joy finds its source. <n>{Lit. God who is the gladness of my joy}</n> Then I will praise you with the lyre, God, my God, 


text:
Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, because I will praise him once again, since his presence saves me and he is my God. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: An instruction <n>{44:T Lit. maskil}</n> of the Sons of Korah.}</n> <n>{A Prayer in Times of Defeat}</n> d God, we heard it with our ears; our ancestors told us about what you did in their day a long time ago. 


text:
With your hand you expelled the nations and established our ancestors. <n>{Lit. them}</n> You afflicted nations and cast them out. 


text:
It was not with their sword that they inherited the land, nor did their own arm deliver them. But it was by your power, <n>{Lit. right hand}</n> your strength, and by the light of your face; because you were pleased with them. 


text:
You are my king, God, command <n>{So MT DSS 11QPs c ; LXX reads truly my king and my God, who commands}</n> victories <n>{Lit. deliverances}</n> for Jacob. 


text:
Through you we will knock down our oppressors; through your name we will tread down those who rise up against us. 


text:
You made us a laughing stock to our neighbors, a source of mockery and derision to those around us. 


text:
You made us an object lesson among the nations; people shake their heads at us. <n>{The Heb. lacks at us}</n> 


text:
My dishonor tortures <n>{Lit. dishonor remains before}</n> me continuously; <n>{Lit. all the day}</n> the shame on my face overwhelms <n>{Lit. covers}</n> me 


text:
All this came upon us, yet we did not forsake you, and we have not dealt falsely with your covenant; 


text:
Nevertheless, you crushed us in the lair of jackals, and covered us in deep darkness. <n>{Or in the shadow of death}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: An instruction <n>{45:T Lit. maskil}</n> by the Sons of Korah. A love song to the tune of <n>{45:T The Heb. lacks the tune of}</n> "Lilies" .}</n> <n>{A Royal Wedding Song}</n> d My heart is overflowing with good news; I speak what I have composed to the king; my tongue is like the pen of an articulate scribe. 


text:
You are the most handsome of Adam's descendants; grace has anointed your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever. 


text:
In your majesty ride forth for the cause of truth, humility, and righteousness; and your strong right hand will teach you awesome things. 


text:
Your arrows are sharpened to penetrate the hearts of the king's enemies. People will fall under you. 


text:
You love justice and hate wickedness. That is why God, even your God, has anointed you rather than your companions with the oil of gladness. 


text:
All your clothes are scented with <n>{The Heb. lacks are scented with}</n> myrrh, aloes, and cassia. From ivory palaces stringed instruments have made you glad. 


text:
The king's daughters are among your honorable women; the queen, dressed in gold from Ophir, has taken her place at your right hand." 


text:
and the king will greatly desire your beauty. Because he is your lord, you should bow in respect before him. 


text:
The daughter <n>{I.e. The people}</n> of Tyre will come with <n>{The Heb. lacks will come with}</n> a wedding gift; wealthy people will entreat your favor. 


text:
In her chamber, <n>{The Heb. lacks her chamber}</n> the king's daughter is glorious; her clothing is embroidered with gold thread. 


text:
In embroidered garments she is presented to the king. Her virgin companions who follow her train will be presented to you. 


text:
Your sons will take the place of your ancestors, and you will set them up as princes in all the earth. 


text:
From generation to generation, I will cause your name to be remembered. Therefore people will thank you forever and ever. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A song by the Sons of Korah, to the tune of <n>{46:T Lit. according to}</n> "The Maidens" .}</n> <n>{God is the Refuge of His People}</n> d God is our refuge and strength, a great help in times of distress. 


text:
Therefore we will not be frightened when the earth roars, when the mountains shake in the depths of the seas, 


text:
when its waters roar and rage, when the mountains tremble despite their pride. <n>{Or tumult}</n> Interlude


text:
Look! There is a river whose streams make the city of God rejoice, even the Holy Place of the Most High. 


text:
He causes wars to cease all over <n>{Lit. cease to the end of}</n> the earth, he causes the bow to break, the spear to snap, the chariots to ignite and burn. 


text:
Be in awe and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted throughout the earth. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A song by the Sons of Korah.}</n> <n>{The Ruler over the Nations}</n> d Clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with a loud cry of joy! 


text:
God has ascended on high with a shout, the Lord has ascended <n>{The Heb. lacks has ascended}</n> with the blast of a trumpet. 


text:
The nobles among the nations have joined the people of the God of Abraham. For the shields of the earth belong to God; he is greatly exalted. 


text:
<n>{A song: Lyrics <n>{48:T Or A song: A song}</n> by the Sons of Korah.}</n> <n>{Zion, City of God}</n> d Great is the Lord ! For he is to be praised greatly, even in the city of our God, his holy mountain. 


text:
Beautifully situated, the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion towards the north, <n>{Or on the northern side}</n> the city of the great King. 


text:
Just as we have heard, so have we seen; in the city of the Lord of the heavenly armies even in the city of our God God will establish her forever. Interlude


text:
God, according to your name, so is your praise to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is filled with righteousness. 


text:
Mount Zion will be glad; the towns <n>{Lit. daughters}</n> of Judah will rejoice because of your judgments. 


text:
Take note of her ramparts; investigate her citadels; that you may speak about them to the next generation. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A song by the Sons of Korah.}</n> <n>{The Destiny of the Wicked and the Upright}</n> d Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, all you who live in the world, 


text:
both average people and those of means, <n>{Lit. both sons of Adam and sons of men}</n> the rich and the poor together. 


text:
I will focus my attention on <n>{Lit. will incline my ear to}</n> a proverb; I will use the harp to expound my riddle. 


text:
Why should I be afraid when evil days come my way, when the wickedness of those who deceive me surrounds me 


text:
No man can redeem the life of another, <n>{Lit. of a brother}</n> nor can he give to God a sufficient payment for him 


text:
Indeed, he will see wise people die; the stupid and the senseless will meet their doom and leave their wealth to others. 


text:
Their inner thoughts are on <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs c 4QPs j ; LXX reads Their graves are}</n> their homes forever; their dwellings from generation to generation. They even name their lands after themselves. 


text:
But humanity cannot last, despite its conceit; <n>{So MT; DSS 4QPs c Syr LXX read Humans, held in honor, had no understanding;}</n> it will pass away just like the animals. <n>{So MT; LXX reads they resembled senseless animals, and became like them ; DSS 4QPs c read they are like animals that perish}</n> 


text:
This is the fate of those who are foolish and of those who correct their words after they speak. Interlude


text:
Like sheep, they are destined for the realm of the dead, <n>{Lit. for Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> with death as their shepherd. The upright will have dominion over them in the morning; their strength will be consumed in the afterlife, <n>{Lit. in Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> so that they have no home. 


text:
God will truly redeem me from the power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> He will surely receive me! Interlude


text:
When he dies, he will not be able to take it all with him <n>{The Heb. lacks with him}</n> his possessions <n>{Or glory}</n> will not follow him to the grave, <n>{The Heb. lacks to the grave}</n> 


text:
you will end up like your <n>{Lit. his}</n> ancestors'generation, never again to see the light of day! 


text:
<n>{A song of Asaph.}</n> <n>{The Acceptable Sacrifice}</n> d God, the Lord , <n>{Or The mighty God}</n> has spoken. He has summoned the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting place. 


text:
Our God has appeared and he has not been silent; a devouring fire blazed before him, and a mighty storm swirled around him. 


text:
He summoned the heavens above and the earth below, <n>{The Heb. lacks below}</n> to sit in judgment on his people. 


text:
"Listen, my people, for I am making a pronouncement: Israel, I, God, your God, am testifying against you. 


text:
I do not rebuke you because of your sacrifices; indeed, your burnt offerings are continually before me. 


text:
I will no longer accept a sacrificial <n>{The Heb. lacks sacrificial}</n> bull from your household; nor goats from your pens. 


text:
As for the wicked, God says, "How dare you recite my statutes or speak about my covenant with your lips! 


text:
These things you did, and I kept silent, because you assumed that I was like you. But now I am going to rebuke you, and I will set forth my case before your very own eyes." 


text:
Consider this, you who have forgotten God Otherwise, I will tear you in pieces and there will be no deliverer: 


text:
Whoever offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies me, and I will reveal the salvation of God to whomever continues in my way." <n>{Lit. sets a way}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm. When the prophet Nathan came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Cleansing and Pardon}</n> d Have mercy, God, according to your gracious love, according to your unlimited compassion, erase my transgressions. 


text:
Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done what was evil in your sight. As a result, you are just in your pronouncement and clear in your judgment. 


text:
Indeed, you are pleased with truth in the inner person, and you will teach me wisdom in my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> innermost parts. 


text:
Deliver me from the guilt of shedding blood, <n>{Lit. from bloods}</n> God, God of my salvation. Then my tongue will sing about your righteousness. 


text:
True sacrifice to God <n>{Lit. The sacrifice of God}</n> is a broken spirit. A broken and chastened heart, God, you will not despise. 


text:
Then you will be pleased with right sacrifices, with burnt offerings, and with whole burnt offerings. Then they will offer bulls on your altar. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic instruction <n>{52:T Lit. maskil}</n> about Doeg, the Edomite, when he went to Saul and told him, "David went to the house of Abimelech."}</n> <n>{A Rebuke to the Deceitful}</n> d Why do you make evil the foundation of your boasting, mighty one? <n>{Or O warrior}</n> God's gracious love never ceases. <n>{Lit. love is all the day}</n> 


text:
But God will tear you down forever; he will take you away, even snatching you out of your tent! He will uproot you from the land of the living. Interlude


text:
"Look, here is a young man who refused to make God his strength; instead, he trusted in his great wealth and made his wickedness his strength. 


text:
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the gracious love of God forever and ever. 


text:
Therefore I will praise you forever because of what you did; I will proclaim that your name is good in the midst of your faithful ones. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: Upon machalath. <n>{53:T A Heb. musical term}</n> A Davidic instruction. <n>{53:T Lit. maskil}</n> }</n> <n>{The Fool and God's Response}</n> d Fools say to themselves "There is no God." They are corrupt and commit iniquity; not one of them practices what is good. 


text:
God looks down from the heavens upon humanity <n>{Lit. upon the sons of Adam}</n> to see if anyone shows discernment as he searches for God. 


text:
All of them <n>{So MT; DSS 4QPs a lack of them}</n> have fallen away; together they have become corrupt; no one does what is good, not even one. 


text:
Will those who do evil ever learn? They devour my people like they devour bread, and never call on God. 


text:
There the Israelis <n>{Lit. they}</n> were seized with terror, when there was nothing to fear. For God scattered the bones of those who laid siege against you <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs a ; LXX reads of men pleasers}</n> you put them to shame, <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs a ; LXX reads they were put to shame}</n> for God rejected them. 


text:
Would that Israel's deliverance come out of Zion! When God restores the fortunes of his people, Jacob will rejoice and Israel will be glad. <n>{Cf. Ps 14:1-7}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: With stringed instruments. A Davidic instruction, <n>{54:T Lit. maskil}</n> when the Ziphites came and told Saul, "David is hiding among us, is he not?"}</n> <n>{A Prayer in Times of Trouble}</n> d God, by your name deliver me, and by your power vindicate me. 


text:
For the arrogant have arisen against me; oppressors have sought to take my life. They do not keep God in mind! <n>{Lit. before them}</n> Interlude


text:
With a free will offering I will sacrifice to you; I will give thanks to your name, Lord , because it is good, 


text:
for he has delivered me from every trouble, and my eyes have seen the end of <n>{The Heb. lacks the end of}</n> my enemies. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: With stringed instruments. A Davidic instruction. <n>{55:T Lit. maskil}</n> }</n> <n>{Betrayal by a Friend}</n> d Pay attention to my prayer, God, and do not hide yourself from my appeal. 


text:
because of the voice of the enemy, and because of the oppression of the wicked. They bring down evil upon me, and in anger they hate me. 


text:
I said, "O, who will give me the wings of a dove, so that I could fly away and live somewhere else? 


text:
Confound them, Lord, and confuse their speech, because I have seen violence and strife in the city. 


text:
For it is not an enemy who insults me I could have handled that nor is it someone who hates me and who now arises against me I could have hidden myself from him 


text:
Let death seize them! May they be plunged alive into the afterlife, <n>{Lit. into Sheol ; a reference to the realm of the dead}</n> for wicked things are in their homes and among them. 


text:
Morning, noon, and night, I mulled over these things and cried out in my distress, and he heard my voice. 


text:
He calmly ransomed my soul from the war waged against me, for there was a vast crowd who stood against me. 


text:
God, who is enthroned from long ago, will hear me and humble them. InterludeBecause they do not repent, they do not fear God. 


text:
Each of my friends <n>{Lit. Each one}</n> raises his hand against his allies; each of my friends <n>{Lit. Each one}</n> breaks his word. <n>{Lit. covenant}</n> 


text:
His mouth is as smooth as butter, while war is in his heart. His words were as smooth as olive oil, while his sword is drawn. 


text:
Cast on the Lord whatever he sends your way, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. 


text:
But you, God, bring them down to the Pit of corruption; <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> bloodthirsty and deceitful people will not live out half their days. But I put my full confidence in you. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A special Davidic psalm <n>{56:T Heb. miktam}</n> to the tune of <n>{56:T Lit. David according to}</n> "A Silent Dove Far Away," when the Philistines seized him in Gath.}</n> <n>{A Prayer about Trust in God}</n> d Have mercy on me, God, because men have harassed me. Those who oppress me have fought against me all day long. 


text:
Those who watch me all day have harassed me, for there are many who fight against me out of conceit. 


text:
In God, whose word I praise, in God I put my trust. I will not fear what mortal man <n>{Lit. what flesh}</n> can do to me. 


text:
All day long people <n>{Lit. they}</n> distort what I say; all their schemes against me are for evil purposes. 


text:
Cast them away because of their wickedness. In wrath, God, cast down these <n>{The Heb. lacks these}</n> people! 


text:
You have kept count of my wanderings. Put my tears in your bottle have not you recorded them in your book? 


text:
My enemies will retreat when I call on you. <n>{The Heb. lacks on you}</n> This has been my experience, because God is with me. 


text:
God, I have taken vows before you; <n>{Lit. your vows are upon me}</n> therefore I will offer thanksgiving sacrifices to you. 


text:
For you have delivered me <n>{Or my soul}</n> from death and my feet from stumbling, so that I may walk before God in the light of the living! 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A special Davidic psalm <n>{57:T Heb. miktam}</n> to the tune of <n>{57:T Lit. David according to}</n> "Do Not Destroy," when he fled from Saul into a cave.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance}</n> d Have mercy on me, God, have mercy, for in you I <n>{Or my soul}</n> have placed my trust. Even in the shadow of your wings will I find my refuge until this calamity passes. 


text:
I call upon the God Most High; to the God who completes what he began <n>{The Heb. lacks what he began}</n> in me. 


text:
He will send help from heaven to deliver me from those who harass and despise me. InterludeGod will send his gracious love and truth. 


text:
I am <n>{Or My soul is}</n> surrounded by lions. I lie down with those who burn with fire that is, with people whose teeth are like spears and arrows whose tongues are like sharp swords. 


text:
They have set a snare for my feet, which makes me <n>{Lit. my soul}</n> depressed. They dug a pit in front of me, but they are the ones who fell into it! Interlude


text:
<n>{To the Director: A special Davidic psalm <n>{58:T Heb. miktam}</n> to the tune of <n>{58:T Lit. David according to}</n> "Do Not Destroy" .}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Justice}</n> d How is it that by remaining silent you can speak righteously? How can you judge people fairly? 


text:
May they flow away like rain water that runs off, may they become like someone who shoots broken arrows. 


text:
May they be like a snail that dries up as it crawls; like a woman's stillborn baby, who never saw the sun. 


text:
Before your clay pots are placed on a fire of burning <n>{The Heb. lacks a fire of burning}</n> thorns whether green or ablaze wrath will sweep them away like a storm. 


text:
The righteous person will rejoice when he sees your <n>{The Heb. lacks your}</n> vengeance; when he washes his feet in the blood of the wicked. 


text:
A person will say, "Certainly, the righteous are rewarded; certainly there is a God who judges the earth." 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A special Davidic psalm <n>{59:T Heb. miktam}</n> to the tune of <n>{59:T Lit. David according to}</n> "Do Not Destroy," when Saul sent men to watch the house in order to kill him.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance and Justice}</n> d Save me from my enemies, my God! Keep me safe from those who rise up against me. 


text:
Look, they lie in ambush for my life; these violent men gather together against me, but not because of any transgression or sin of mine, Lord . 


text:
Without any fault on my part, they rush together and prepare themselves. Get up! Come help me! Pay attention! 


text:
You, Lord God of the Heavenly Armies, God of Israel, stir yourself up to punish all the nations. Show no mercy to those wicked transgressors. Interlude


text:
Look what pours out of their mouths! They use their lips like swords, saying <n>{The Heb. lacks saying}</n> "Who will hear us?" 


text:
My God of Gracious Love will meet me; God will enable me to see what happens <n>{The Heb. lacks what happens}</n> to my enemies. 


text:
Don't kill them! Otherwise, my people may forget. By your power make them stumble around; bring them down low, Lord, our Shield. 


text:
The sin of their mouth is the word on their lips. They will be caught in their own conceit; for they speak curses and lies. 


text:
Go ahead and destroy them in anger! Wipe them out, and they will know to the ends of the earth that God rules over Jacob. <n>{Or know that God rules over Jacob to the ends of the earth}</n> Interlude


text:
But I will sing of your power and in the morning I will shout for joy about your gracious love. For you have been a fortress for me; and a refuge when I am distressed. <n>{Lit. refuge in the day of my distress}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A special Davidic psalm to the tune of <n>{60:T Lit. David according to}</n> "Lily of The Covenant," for teaching about his battle with Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah, when Joab returned and attacked 12,000 Edomites in the Salt Valley. <n>{60:T I.e. Dead Sea region}</n> }</n> <n>{A Prayer for God's Help against Adversaries}</n> d God, you have cast us off; you have breached our defenses and you have become enraged. Return to us! 


text:
But you have given a banner to those who fear you, so they may display it in honor of truth. <n>{Or display it because of the archer}</n> Interlude


text:
So your loved ones may be delivered, save us by your power <n>{Lit. right hand}</n> and answer us quickly! 


text:
Then God spoke in his holiness, "I will rejoice I will divide Shechem; I will portion out the Succoth Valley. 


text:
Moab is my wash basin; over Edom I will throw my shoes; over Philistia I will celebrate my triumph." 


text:
Through God we will fight <n>{Lit. will do}</n> valiantly; and it is he who will crush our enemies. <n>{vv.5-12 is the same as Psalm 108:6-13.}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A composition <n>{61:T The Heb. lacks A composition}</n> by David for stringed instruments.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for God's Protection}</n> d God, hear my cry; pay attention to my prayer. 


text:
From the end of the earth I will cry to you whenever my heart is overwhelmed. Place me on the rock that's too high for me. 


text:
For you, God, have heard my promises; you have assigned to me <n>{The Heb. lacks to me}</n> the heritage of those who fear your name. 


text:
Add day after day to the king's life; may his years continue <n>{The Heb. lacks continue}</n> for many generations. 


text:
May he be enthroned before God forever; Appoint your <n>{The Heb. lacks your}</n> gracious love and truth to guard him. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: According to Jeduthun's style. A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Psalm of Trust in God}</n> d My soul rests quietly only when it looks <n>{The Heb. lacks when it looks}</n> to God; from him comes my deliverance. 


text:
How long will you rage against someone? Would you attack him as if he were a leaning wall or a tottering fence? 


text:
They plan to cast him down from his exalted position. They delight in lies; their mouth utters blessings, while their heart is cursing. Interlude


text:
People, in every situation put your trust in God; <n>{Lit. in him}</n> pour out your heart before him; for God is a refuge for us. Interlude


text:
Human beings <n>{Lit. sons of Adam}</n> are a mere vapor, while people in high positions <n>{Lit. sons of man}</n> are not what they appear. When they are placed on the scales, they weigh nothing; even when weighed together, they are less than nothing. 


text:
Don't trust in oppression or put false hope in stealing; if you become wealthy, do not set your heart on it. 


text:
Also to you, Lord, belongs gracious love, because you reward each person according to what he does. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm, while he was in the Judean wilderness.}</n> <n>{Joyful Trust in God}</n> d God, you are my God! I will fervently seek you. My soul thirsts for you; my flesh longs for you in a dry, weary, and parched land. 


text:
Just as I am satisfied with the choicest of foods, <n>{Lit. with marrow and fatness}</n> so my lips will praise you joyfully. 


text:
May they be given over to the power of <n>{The Heb. lacks to the power of}</n> the sword; may they become carrion for jackals. 


text:
But as for the king, he will rejoice in God. Indeed, everyone who swears by God <n>{Lit. him}</n> will exult, because the mouths of liars will be silenced. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Davidic Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Protection}</n> d Hear, God, as I express my concern; protect me <n>{Lit. my life}</n> from fear of the enemy. 


text:
They concoct an evil scheme for themselves; they enumerate their hidden snares; they say, "Who will see them?" <n>{Lit. see him ; or see it}</n> 


text:
The righteous rejoiced in the Lord , because they had fled to him for refuge. Let all the upright in heart exult. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A song. Lyrics <n>{65:T Lit. A song. A song}</n> by David.}</n> <n>{A Song of Praise to God}</n> d In Zion, God, praise silently awaits you, and vows will be paid to you. 


text:
How blessed is the one you choose, the one you cause to live in your courts. We will be satisfied with the goodness of your house, yes, even with the holiness of your Temple. 


text:
With awesome deeds of justice <n>{Or righteousness}</n> you will answer us, God our Deliverer; you are <n>{The Heb. lacks you are}</n> the confidence for everyone at the ends of the earth, even for those far away overseas. 


text:
Those living at the furthest ends of the earth <n>{The Heb. lacks of the earth}</n> are seized by fear because of your miraculous deeds. You make the going forth of the morning and the evening shout for joy. 


text:
You take care of the earth, you water it, and you enrich it greatly with the river of God that overflows with water. You provide grain for them, for you have ordained it this way. 


text:
You fill the furrows of the field with water so that their ridges overflow. You soften them with rain showers; their sprouts you have blessed. 


text:
The wilderness pastures drip with dew, <n>{The Heb. lacks with dew}</n> and the hills wrap themselves with joy. 


text:
The meadows are clothed with flocks of sheep, and the valleys are covered with grain. They shout for joy; yes, they burst out in song! 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A song. A Psalm.}</n> <n>{A Song of Praise}</n> d Shout praise to God all the earth! 


text:
Sing praise about the glory of his name. <n>{I.e. reputation ; and so throughout the Psalms}</n> Make his praise glorious. 


text:
Say to God: "How awesome are your works! Because of your great strength your enemies cringe before you." 


text:
He turned the sea into dry land. Israel <n>{Lit. He}</n> crossed the river on foot; let us rejoice in him. 


text:
He rules by his power forever, his eyes watching over the nations. Do not let the rebellious exalt themselves. Interlude


text:
You caused men to ride over us. <n>{Lit. over our head}</n> You brought us through fire and water, but you led us to abundance. 


text:
I will offer to you burnt offerings of fat, along with the smoke of the sacrifice of rams. I will offer bulls along with goats. Interlude


text:
<n>{To the Director of music: Accompanied by stringed instruments. A Psalm. A song.}</n> <n>{A Call to Thanksgiving}</n> d May God show us favor and bless us; may he truly show us his favor. <n>{Lit. he cause his face to shine on us}</n> Interlude


text:
Let the nations rejoice and sing for joy, because you judge people with fairness and you govern the people of the earth. Interlude


text:
<n>{To the Director of music: A Psalm. A song.}</n> <n>{A Song of Praise to God}</n> d God arises, and his enemies are scattered. Those who hate him flee from his presence. <n>{Lit. face}</n> 


text:
As smoke is driven away, so you drive them away. As wax melts in the presence of fire, so the wicked die in the presence of God. 


text:
Sing to God! Sing praise to his name! Exalt the one who rides on the clouds. The Lord is his name. Be jubilant in his presence. 


text:
God causes the lonely to dwell in families. <n>{Lit. in a house}</n> He leads prisoners into prosperity, but rebels live on parched land. 


text:
the land quaked. Indeed, the heavens poured down rain from the presence of God, this God of Sinai, from the presence of God, the God of Israel. 


text:
God, you poured out abundant rain on your inheritance. When Israel <n>{Lit. it}</n> was weary, you sustained her. 


text:
Your people live <n>{Or tribe lives}</n> there; you sustain the needy <n>{Or afflicted}</n> with your goodness, God. 


text:
When you men lie down among the sheepfolds, you are like <n>{The Heb. lacks you are like}</n> the wings of the dove covered with silver, with its feathers in glittering gold." 


text:
You mountains of many peaks, why do you watch with envy the mountain in which God has chosen to dwell? Indeed, the Lord will live there forever. 


text:
You ascended to the heights, you took captives. You received gifts among mankind, even the rebellious, so the Lord God may live there. <n>{The Heb. lacks there}</n> 


text:
God surely strikes the heads of his enemies, even the hairy heads of those who continue in their guilt. 


text:
that your feet may wade through blood. The tongues of your dogs will have their portions from your enemies." 


text:
The singers are in front, the musicians follow, strumming their stringed instruments among the maidens who are playing their tambourines. 


text:
Little Benjamin is there, leading them, and the princes of Judah all together with the princes of Zebulun and the princes of Naphtali. 


text:
Rebuke the wildlife that lives among the reeds, the nations that congregate like bulls and cows, humbling themselves with pieces of silver, for God <n>{Lit. he}</n> scatters the nations that delight in battle. 


text:
You are awesome, God, from your sanctuaries. The God of Israel is the one who gives strength and power to the people. Blessed be God! 


text:
<n>{To the Director: To the tune of <n>{69:T Lit. According to}</n> "The Lilies" . Davidic.}</n> <n>{When God Seems Distant}</n> d Deliver me, God, because the waters are up to my neck. <n>{Lit. soul}</n> 


text:
I am sinking in deep mire, and there is no solid ground. <n>{Or foothold}</n> I have come into deep water, and the flood overwhelms me. 


text:
I am exhausted from calling for help. My throat is parched. My eyes are strained from looking for God. 


text:
Those who hate me without cause are more than the hairs of my head. My persecutors are mighty, and they want to destroy me. Must I be forced to return what I did not steal? 


text:
Do not let those who look up to you be ashamed because of me, Lord God of the Heavenly Armies. Let not those who seek you be humiliated because of me, God of Israel. 


text:
<n>{Seeking God for Deliverance}</n> d As for me, Lord , may my prayer to you come at a favorable time. God, in the abundance of your gracious love, answer me with your sure deliverance. 


text:
Rescue me from the mud and do not let me sink. Rescue me from those who hate me, and from the deep waters. 


text:
Let neither the floodwaters overwhelm me nor let the deep swallow me up, nor the mouth of the well close over me. 


text:
Answer me, Lord , for your gracious love is good; Turn to me in keeping with your great compassion, 


text:
and <n>{So MT; DSS 4QPs a lack and}</n> do not ignore your servant, because I am in distress. Hurry to answer me! 


text:
Truly you know my reproach, shame, and disgrace. All my enemies are known to <n>{Lit. are before}</n> you. 


text:
Insults broke my heart. I despaired and looked for sympathy; but there was none, for comforters, but I found none. 


text:
May their dining <n>{The Heb. lacks dining}</n> tables entrap them, and become a snare for their allies. 


text:
For they persecute those whom you have struck, and they brag about the pain of those you have wounded. 


text:
May you punish them for their crimes; may they receive no verdict of innocence <n>{Lit. no righteousness}</n> from you. 


text:
Let the heavens and earth praise him, along with the sea and its swarming creatures. <n>{The Heb. lacks creatures}</n> 


text:
For God will deliver Zion and will rebuild the cities of Judah so they may live there and possess them. 


text:
<n>{To the Music director. Davidic. As a memorial.}</n> <n>{A Call for Help}</n> d God, come to my rescue. Lord , hurry to help me. 


text:
May those who seek to kill me be publicly humiliated. May those who take pleasure in my harm be turned back in humiliation. 


text:
May those who say "Aha! Aha!" be turned back because of their shameful deeds. <n>{The Heb. lacks deeds}</n> 


text:
Let those who seek you greatly rejoice in you. Let those who love your deliverance say, "May God be continually exalted." 


text:
As for me, I am poor and needy. God, come quickly to me. You are my helper and my deliverer. Lord , please do not delay. 


text:
Rescue and deliver me, <n>{So LXX DSS 4QPs a ; MT reads In your righteousness you are delivering me and rescuing me}</n> because you are righteous. Turn your ear to me and save me. 


text:
Be my sheltering refuge where I may go continually; command my deliverance for you are my rock and fortress. 


text:
I depended on you since birth, <n>{Lit. you from the womb}</n> when you brought me <n>{So MT; LXX reads birth, it was you who sheltered me ; DSS 4QPs a reads birth, you are my protector}</n> from my mother's womb; I praise you continually. 


text:
Let my adversaries be ashamed and consumed; <n>{So MT; LXX reads and let them expire ; DSS 4QPs a reads and let them be consumed}</n> let those who seek my destruction be covered with scorn and disgrace. 


text:
I <n>{Lit. My mouth}</n> will declare your righteousness and your salvation every day, though I do not fully understand what the outcome will be. <n>{Lit. understand the sum}</n> 


text:
Lord God , I will come in the power of <n>{The Heb. lacks the power of}</n> your mighty acts, remembering your righteousness yours alone. 


text:
Also, when I reach old age and have gray hair, God, do not forsake me, until I have declared your power to this generation and your might to the next one. 


text:
God, who can compare to you, who caused me to experience <n>{Lit. see}</n> troubles that were numerous and disastrous? You will return to revive me and lift me up from the depths of the earth. 


text:
I also will praise you with the harp; because of your faithfulness, my God, I will praise you with the lyre Holy One of Israel. 


text:
Moreover, my tongue will speak all day about your justice; for those who seek my destruction will be utterly humiliated. 


text:
<n>{Solomonic}</n> <n>{A Prayer for the King}</n> d God, endow the king with ability to render <n>{The Heb. lacks to render}</n> your justice, and the king's son to render your right decisions. 


text:
May he defend the afflicted of the people and deliver the children of the poor, but crush the oppressor. 


text:
May they fear you as long as the sun and moon shine <n>{The Heb. lacks shine}</n> from generation to generation. 


text:
May he rule from sea to sea, from the Euphrates River <n>{The Heb. lacks Euphrates}</n> to the ends of the earth. 


text:
May the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores bring gifts, and may the kings of Sheba and Seba offer tribute. 


text:
He will redeem them <n>{Lit. redeem their souls}</n> from oppression and violence, since their lives are <n>{Lit. their blood is}</n> precious in his sight. 


text:
<n>{Prayer for the King}</n> d May he live long and be given gold from Sheba, and may prayer be offered for him continually, and may he be blessed every day. 


text:
May grain be abundant in the land all the way <n>{The Heb. lacks all the way}</n> to the mountain tops; may its fruits flourish like the forests of Lebanon, and may the cities sprout like the grass of the earth. 


text:
<n>{Praising the God of Israel}</n> d May his fame <n>{Lit. name}</n> be eternal as long as the sun may his name endure, and may they be blessed through him, and may all nations call him blessed. 


text:
And blessed be his glorious name forever, and may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and amen! 


text:
<n>{ BOOK III (Psalms 73-89)}</n> <n>{A song of Asaph.}</n> <n>{A Plea for Deliverance}</n> d God is indeed good to Israel, to those pure in heart. 


text:
They do not experience problems common to ordinary people; they aren't afflicted as others <n>{Lit. human beings}</n> are. 


text:
Their eyes bulge from obesity and the imaginations of their mind cross the border into sin. <n>{The Heb. lacks into sin}</n> 


text:
They choose to speak <n>{Lit. They set their mouth}</n> against heaven; while they talk about things on earth. 


text:
Therefore God's <n>{Lit. his}</n> people return there and drink it all in like water until they're satiated. 


text:
Then, I was too stupid and didn't realize I was acting like <n>{The Heb. lacks acting like}</n> a wild animal with you. 


text:
My body and mind may fail, but God is my strength <n>{Lit. is the rock of my heart}</n> and my portion forever. 


text:
As for me, how good for me it is that God is near! I have made the Lord God my refuge so I can tell about all your deeds. 


text:
<n>{An instruction <n>{74:T Lit. maskil}</n> of Asaph}</n> <n>{A Plea for Deliverance}</n> d Why, God? Have you rejected us forever? Your anger is burning against the sheep of your pasture. 


text:
Remember your community, whom you purchased long ago, the tribe whom you redeemed for your possession. Remember <n>{The Heb. lacks Remember}</n> Mount Zion, where you live. 


text:
Those who are opposing you roar where we were meeting with you; they unfurl their war banners as signs. 


text:
They say to themselves, "We'll crush them completely;" They burned down all the meeting places of God in the land. 


text:
We see no signs for us; there is no longer a prophet, and no one among us knows the future. <n>{Lit. knows when}</n> 


text:
Why do you not withdraw your hand your right hand from your bosom and destroy them? <n>{The Heb. lacks them}</n> 


text:
Don't ignore the shout of those opposing you, The uproar of those who rebel against you continuously. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: To the tune of <n>{75:T The Heb. lacks the tune of}</n> "Do not Destroy!" }</n> <n>{A psalm of Asaph. A song.}</n> <n>{Praise to God for Justice}</n> d We praise you, God! We praise you <n>{The Heb. lacks you}</n> your presence <n>{Lit. name}</n> draws near as we declare your wonderful deeds. 


text:
I will say to the proud, "Don't brag," and to the wicked, "Don't vaunt your strength. <n>{Lit. Don't lift up your horn}</n> 


text:
Don't use your strength to fight heaven <n>{Lit. Don't lift your horns to the height}</n> or speak from stubborn arrogance." <n>{Lit. speak with a stiff neck}</n> 


text:
For there is a cup in the hand of the Lord , foaming with well-mixed wine that he will pour out, leaving only the dregs, from which all the wicked of the earth will drink. 


text:
I will cut down the strength <n>{Lit. horn}</n> of the wicked, but the strength <n>{Lit. horn}</n> of the righteous will be lifted up. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: With stringed instruments. A psalm of Asaph. A song.}</n> <n>{The Awesome God}</n> d God is known in Judah; in Israel his reputation is great. 


text:
There he shattered sharp arrows, shields, swords, and weapons of <n>{The Heb. lacks weapons of}</n> war. Interlude


text:
Brave men were plundered while they slumbered in their sleep. All the men of the army were immobilized. 


text:
Even human anger praises you; you will wear the survivors of your wrath as an ornament. <n>{The Heb. lacks as an ornament}</n> 


text:
Let everyone who surrounds the Lord your God make a vow and fulfill it to the Awesome One. <n>{Or to the one whom they fear}</n> 


text:
He will humble the arrogant <n>{Lit. the spirit of}</n> commanders-in-chief, <n>{Lit. Nagidim ; i.e. senior officers entrusted with dual roles of operational oversight and administrative authority}</n> instilling fear among the kings of the earth. 


text:
<n>{To the director: To Jeduthun. A psalm of Asaph.}</n> <n>{Remembering God in Times of Trouble}</n> d I cry out to God! I cry out to God and he hears me. 


text:
When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; my hands were raised at night and they did not grow weary. I refused to be comforted. 


text:
You delivered <n>{Or redeemed}</n> your people the descendants of Jacob and Joseph with your power. Interlude


text:
The clouds poured rain; the skies rumbled. Indeed, your lightning bolts flashed. <n>{Lit. your fierce arrows traveled}</n> 


text:
Your thunderous sound was in a whirlwind; your lightning lights up the world; the earth becomes agitated and quakes. 


text:
Your way was through the sea, and your path through mighty waters, but your footprints cannot be traced. <n>{Lit. steps are not recognized}</n> 


text:
<n>{An instruction <n>{78:T Lit. maskil}</n> of Asaph}</n> <n>{Remembering God in Times of Trouble}</n> d Listen, my people, to my instruction. Hear <n>{Lit. Stretch out your ear}</n> the words of my mouth. 


text:
We will not withhold them from their descendants; we'll declare to the next generation the praises of the Lord his might and awesome deeds that he has performed. 


text:
He established a decree in Jacob, and established the Law in Israel, that he commanded our ancestors to reveal to their children 


text:
in order that the next generation children yet to be born will know them and in turn teach them to their children. 


text:
Then they will put their trust in God and they will not forget his awesome deeds. Instead, they will keep his commandments. 


text:
They will not be like the rebellious generation of their ancestors, a rebellious generation, whose heart was not steadfast, and whose spirits were unfaithful to God. 


text:
The descendants of Ephraim were sharp shooters with the bow, but they retreated in the day of battle. 


text:
He performed marvelous things in the presence of their ancestors in the land of Egypt in the fields of Zoan. 


text:
He divided the sea so that they were able to cross; he caused the water to stand in a single location. 


text:
He caused the rocks to split in the wilderness, and gave them water <n>{Lit. drink}</n> as from an abundant sea. 


text:
To test God was in their minds, when they demanded food to satisfy their cravings. <n>{Lit. food for their soul}</n> 


text:
It's true that <n>{Lit. Indeed,}</n> Moses <n>{Lit. he}</n> struck the rock so that water flowed forth and torrents of water gushed out, but is he also able to give bread or to supply meat for his people?" 


text:
Therefore, when the Lord heard this, he was angry, and fire broke out against Jacob. Moreover, his anger flared against Israel, 


text:
the anger of God flared against them, and he killed the strongest men and humbled Israel's young men. 


text:
But he, being merciful, forgave their iniquity and didn't destroy them; He restrained his anger and didn't vent all his wrath. 


text:
He inflicted his burning anger, wrath, indignation, and distress, sending destroying angels among them. 


text:
He blazed a path for his anger; he did not stop short from killing them, but handed them over to pestilence. 


text:
He brought the people <n>{Lit. brought them}</n> to the border of his holy mountain, which he acquired by his might. 


text:
He drove out nations before them and allotted their tribal inheritance, settling the tribes of Israel in their tents. 


text:
They fell away and were as disloyal as their ancestors. They became unreliable, like a defective bow; 


text:
Then he sent his might <n>{I.e. the Ark of the Covenant}</n> into captivity and his glory into the control of the adversary. 


text:
The young men were consumed by fire, and the virgins had no marriage celebrations. <n>{Lit. virgins sang no wedding song}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Psalm of Asaph}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Jerusalem}</n> d God, nations have invaded your land <n>{Lit. your possession ; or your inheritance}</n> to desecrate your holy Temple, to destroy Jerusalem, 


text:
to give the corpses of your servants as food for the birds of the skies and the flesh of your godly ones to the beasts of the earth; 


text:
Pour out your wrath upon the nations that do not acknowledge you, and over the kingdoms that do not call on your name. 


text:
Don't charge <n>{Lit. remember}</n> us for previous iniquity, but let your compassion come quickly to us, for we have been brought very low. 


text:
Help us, God, our deliverer, on account of your glorious name, deliver us and forgive <n>{Lit. cover}</n> our sins on account of your name. 


text:
Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" Let vengeance for the blood of your servants be meted <n>{Lit. spilled}</n> out before our eyes and among the nations. 


text:
Let the cries of the prisoners reach you. With the strength of your power, release those condemned to death. <n>{Lit. the sons of death}</n> 


text:
Pay back our neighbors seven times <n>{Or seven-fold}</n> the reproach with which they reproached you, Lord . 


text:
Then we, your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you always, from generation to generation. We will declare your praise. 


text:
<n>{For the Director of Music: According to "The Lilies" . A testimony of Asaph. A psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Jerusalem}</n> d Shepherd of Israel, listen! The one who leads Joseph like a flock, the one enthroned on the cherubim, display your glory. <n>{The Heb. lacks your glory}</n> 


text:
Reveal <n>{Or rouse , stir up}</n> your power before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, then come to our rescue. 


text:
Lord God of the Heavenly Armies, when will your smoldering anger <n>{Lit. Until when will you burn in anger}</n> toward your people's prayers cease? <n>{The Heb. lacks cease}</n> 


text:
God of the Heavenly Armies, restore us and show your favor, <n>{Lit. cause your face to shine}</n> so we may be delivered. 


text:
Its branches spread out to the Mediterranean <n>{The Heb. lacks Mediterranean}</n> Sea and its shoots to the Euphrates <n>{The Heb. lacks Euphrates}</n> River. 


text:
Why did you break down its walls so that those who pass by pluck its fruits? <n>{Heb. lacks its fruits}</n> 


text:
God of the Heavenly Armies, return! Look down from heaven and see. Show care <n>{Lit. Visit}</n> toward this vine. 


text:
The root <n>{Or stock}</n> that your right hand planted, the shoot <n>{Lit. son}</n> that you tended for yourself, 


text:
<n>{For the Director: On the Gittith. By Asaph.}</n> <n>{Celebrating and Remembering God}</n> d Sing joyfully to God, our strength. Raise a shout to the God of Jacob. 


text:
a decree that he prescribed for Joseph when he went throughout the land of Egypt, speaking a language I did not recognize. <n>{Lit. hear}</n> 


text:
I removed the burden from your <n>{Lit. his}</n> shoulder; your <n>{Lit. his}</n> hands were freed of the burdensome basket. <n>{Lit. hands let pass through the basket}</n> 


text:
In a time of need you called out and I delivered you; I answered you from the dark thundercloud; I tested you at the waters of Meribah. Interlude


text:
I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, open your mouth that I may fill it. 


text:
So I allowed them <n>{Or it / her}</n> to continue in their stubbornness, living by their own advice. 


text:
But I will feed Israel <n>{Lit. him}</n> with the finest wheat, satisfying you with honey from the rock. 


text:
<n>{A Psalm of Asaph}</n> <n>{Asking God for Justice}</n> d God takes his stand in the divine assembly; among the divine <n>{Or angelic}</n> beings <n>{Or the gods}</n> he renders judgment: 


text:
"How long will you judge partially by showing favor on the wicked? <n>{Lit. you lift the face}</n> Interlude


text:
They neither know nor understand; they walk about in the dark while all the foundations of the earth are shaken. 


text:
<n>{A song. A Psalm of Asaph}</n> <n>{A Plea for Judgment}</n> d God, do not rest! Don't be silent! Don't stay inactive, God! 


text:
They plot against <n>{Lit. they make shrewd secret counsel}</n> your people and conspire against your cherished ones. 


text:
They say, "Let us go and erase them as a nation so the name of Israel will not be remembered anymore." 


text:
Deal with them as you did to Midian, <n>{Cf. Judg 7:1-24}</n> Sisera, and Jabin at the Kishon Brook. <n>{Cf. Judg 4:7, 15, 21-24}</n> 


text:
Punish their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb, <n>{Cf. Judg 7:25}</n> and all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, <n>{Cf. Judg 8:12, 21}</n> 


text:
Let them be humiliated and terrified permanently until they die in shame. <n>{Lit. they are abased and destroyed}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Director: On the Gittith.}</n> <n>{A Psalm by the descendants of Korah.}</n> <n>{Longing for God}</n> d How lovely are your dwelling places, Lord of the Heavenly Armies. 


text:
I desire and long for the Temple <n>{The Heb. lacks temple}</n> courts of the Lord. My heart and body <n>{Lit. flesh}</n> sing for joy to the living God. <n>{Or the God of life}</n> 


text:
Even the sparrow found a house for herself and the swallow a nest to lay <n>{Or to set up}</n> her young at your altar, Lord of the Heavenly Armies, my king and God. 


text:
They will pass through the Baca Valley where he will prepare a spring for them; even the early rain will cover it with blessings. 


text:
for a day in your Temple <n>{The Heb. lacks temple}</n> courts is better than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather stand at the entrance of God's house than live in the tent of wickedness. 


text:
For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord grants grace and favor; the Lord will not withhold any good thing from those who walk blamelessly. 


text:
<n>{To the Director: A Psalm by the descendants of Korah.}</n> <n>{Restore Us, God}</n> d Lord you have favored your land and restored the fortunes of Jacob. 


text:
Let me listen to what God, the Lord , says; for the Lord will promise peace to his people, to his holy ones; may they not return to foolishness. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic prayer}</n> <n>{Help Us, God}</n> d Lord , listen and answer me, for I am afflicted and needy. 


text:
Protect me, for I am faithful; <n>{Or righteous}</n> My God, deliver your servant who trusts in you. 


text:
Indeed you, Lord, are kind and forgiving, overflowing with gracious love to everyone who calls on you. 


text:
No one can compare with you among the gods, Lord; No one can accomplish <n>{The Heb. lacks can accomplish}</n> your work. 


text:
All the nations that you have established will come and worship you, my Lord. They will honor your name. 


text:
Teach me your ways, Lord , that I may walk in your truth; let me wholeheartedly <n>{Lit. my heart be undivided}</n> revere your name. 


text:
For great is your gracious love to me; you've delivered me from the depths of Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> 


text:
God, arrogant men rise up against me, while a company of ruthless individuals want to kill me. They do not have regard for you. <n>{Lit. don't set you before them}</n> 


text:
But you, Lord, are a compassionate God, merciful and patient, <n>{Or slow to anger}</n> with unending gracious love and faithfulness. 


text:
Return to me and have mercy on me; clothe your servant with your strength and deliver the son of your maid servant. 


text:
Show me a sign of your goodness, so that those who hate me will see it and be ashamed. For you, Lord, will help and comfort me. 


text:
<n>{A psalm by the descendants of Korah. A song.}</n> <n>{The Holy City for All People}</n> d God's <n>{Lit. His}</n> foundation is in the holy mountains. 


text:
I will mention Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me including Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia <n>{Lit. Cush}</n> "This one was born there," they say. <n>{The Heb. lacks they say}</n> 


text:
Indeed, about Zion it will be said: "More than one person <n>{Lit. a man and a man}</n> was born in it," and "The Most High himself did <n>{Or secured}</n> it." 


text:
The Lord will record, as he registers the peoples, <n>{Lit. record, in a registry of people}</n> "This one was born there." Interlude


text:
Then singers, as they play their instruments, <n>{Or singers and flute players}</n> will declare, "All my roots <n>{Lit. springs}</n> are in you." 


text:
<n>{A song. A psalm by the descendants of Korah. According to Machalath Leannoth. An instruction <n>{88:T Lit. maskil}</n> by Heman the Ezrahite.}</n> <n>{A Cry for Help}</n> d Lord , God of my salvation, by day and by night I cry out before you. 


text:
I am considered as one of those descending into the Pit, <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> like a mighty man without strength, 


text:
released to remain <n>{The Heb. lacks to remain}</n> with the dead, lying in a grave like a corpse, remembered no longer, and cut off from your power. 


text:
You have assigned me to the lowest part of the Pit, <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> to the darkest depths. 


text:
You caused my acquaintances to shun me; <n>{Lit. to be distant}</n> you make me extremely abhorrent to them. Restrained, I am unable to go out. 


text:
My eyes languish on account of my affliction; all day long I call out to you, Lord , I spread out my hands to you. 


text:
Can your gracious love be declared in the grave or your faithfulness in Abaddon? <n>{I.e. the realm of destruction in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
You caused my friend and neighbor to shun me; <n>{Lit. be distant from}</n> and my acquaintances are confused. <n>{Lit. are in darkness}</n> 


text:
<n>{An instruction <n>{89:T Lit. maskil}</n> . By Ethan, the Ezrahite}</n> <n>{God's Covenant with David}</n> d I will sing forever about the gracious love of the Lord ; from generation to generation I will declare your faithfulness with my mouth. 


text:
I will declare that your gracious love was established forever; in the heavens itself, you have established your faithfulness. 


text:
"I will establish your dynasty forever, and I will lift up one who will build <n>{Or confirm}</n> your throne from generation to generation." Interlude


text:
Even the heavens praise your awesome deeds, Lord , your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones. 


text:
You crushed the proud one <n>{Lit. Rahab}</n> to death; with your powerful arm you scattered your enemies. 


text:
Your arm is strong; your hand is mighty; indeed, your right hand is victorious. <n>{Lit. lifted up}</n> 


text:
Righteousness and justice make up the foundation of your throne; gracious love and truth meet before you. 


text:
How happy are the people who can worship joyfully! <n>{Lit. who know the joyful shout}</n> Lord , they walk in the light of your presence. 


text:
<n>{God's Describes His Anointed}</n> d You spoke to your faithful <n>{Or godly ; so MT LXX; DSS 4Q98 g reads chosen}</n> ones through a vision: <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4Q98 g reads vision; you said}</n> "I will set a helper over <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4Q98 g reads I have lent support to}</n> a warrior. I will raise up a chosen one from the people. 


text:
My faithfulness and gracious love will be with him, and in my name his power <n>{Lit. horn}</n> will be exalted. 


text:
I will place his hand <n>{I.e. his authority}</n> over the sea, and his right hand <n>{I.e. his authority}</n> over the rivers. 


text:
I will show <n>{Lit. keep}</n> my gracious love toward him forever, since my covenant is securely established with him. 


text:
I will establish his dynasty <n>{Lit. seed}</n> forever, and his throne as long as heaven endures. <n>{Lit. as the days of the heavens}</n> 


text:
But I will not cut off <n>{Lit. break}</n> my gracious love from him, and I will not stop being faithful. 


text:
I will not dishonor my covenant, because I will not change what I have spoken. <n>{Lit. what goes out of my lips}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Commitment to Persevere}</n> d But you have spurned, rejected, and became angry with your anointed one. 


text:
Remember how short my lifetime is! How powerless have you created all human beings! <n>{Lit. all sons of Adam}</n> 


text:
What valiant man can live and not see death? Who can deliver himself <n>{Lit. deliver his soul}</n> from the power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> Interlude


text:
when your enemies reproached you, Lord, when they reproached the footsteps <n>{Lit. the hind part}</n> of your anointed. 


text:
<n>{ BOOK IV (Psalms 90-106)}</n> <n>{A prayer by Moses, the godly man}</n> <n>{Life is Short}</n> d Lord, you've been our refuge <n>{Or our dwelling place}</n> from generation to generation. 


text:
Before the mountains were formed or the earth and the world were brought forth, you are God from eternity to eternity. 


text:
You return people to dust merely by <n>{The Heb. lacks merely by}</n> saying, "Return, you mortals!" 


text:
All our days pass <n>{Or turn}</n> away in your wrath; our years fade away <n>{Lit. are finished}</n> and end like a sigh. 


text:
We live for 70 years, or 80 years if we're healthy, <n>{Lit. strong}</n> yet even in the prime years <n>{Lit. the pride}</n> there are troubles and sorrow. They pass by quickly and we fly away. 


text:
Cause us to rejoice throughout the time when you have afflicted us, the years when we have known <n>{Lit. seen}</n> trouble. 


text:
May your favor be on us, Lord our God; make our endeavors successful; yes, make our endeavors secure! 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm <n>{91:T So LXX; DSS 11QPs a lacks Psalm; the Heb. lacks this line}</n> }</n> <n>{God is My Refuge}</n> d The one who lives in the shelter of the Most High, who rests in the shadow of the Almighty, 


text:
With his feathers he will cover you, under his wings you will find safety. His truth is your shield and armor. 


text:
You need not fear terror that stalks <n>{The Heb. lacks that stalks}</n> in the night, the arrow that flies in the day, 


text:
Only observe <n>{Or Only you will observe}</n> it with your eyes, and you will see how the wicked are paid back. 


text:
<n>{The LORD Speaks}</n> d Because he has focused his love on me, I will deliver him. I will protect him <n>{Or will set him on high}</n> because he knows my name. 


text:
When he calls out to me, I will answer him. I will be with him in his <n>{The Heb. lacks his}</n> distress. I will deliver him, and I will honor him. 


text:
<n>{A Psalm. A song for the Sabbath Day}</n> <n>{Praise and Thanksgiving to God}</n> d It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praise to your name, Most High; 


text:
Because you made me glad with your awesome deeds, Lord , I will sing for joy at the works of your hands. 


text:
Though the wicked sprout like grass; and all who practice iniquity flourish, it is they who will be eternally destroyed. 


text:
Look at your enemies, Lord ! Look at your enemies, for they are destroyed; everyone who practices iniquity will be scattered. <n>{Lit. divided ; or separated}</n> 


text:
You've grown my strength <n>{Lit. horn}</n> like the horn of a wild ox; I was anointed with fresh oil. 


text:
My eyes gloated over those who lie in wait for me; <n>{The Heb. lacks for me}</n> when those of evil intent attack me, my ears will hear. 


text:
They will still bear fruit even in old age; <n>{Lit. Even with gray hair}</n> they will be luxuriant and green. 


text:
<n>{God Reigns}</n> d The Lord reigns! He is clothed in majesty; the Lord is clothed, and he is girded <n>{So MT; DSS 11QPsa reads is robed in power and girded himself}</n> with strength. Indeed, the world is well established, and cannot be shaken. 


text:
The rivers have flooded, Lord ; the rivers have spoken aloud, the rivers have lifted up their crushing waves. 


text:
<n>{God Avenges His Own}</n> d God of vengeance, Lord God of vengeance, display your splendor! <n>{The Heb. lacks your splendor}</n> 


text:
When they speak, they spew arrogance. Everyone who practices iniquity brags about it. <n>{The Heb. lacks about it}</n> 


text:
The one who formed <n>{Lit. planted}</n> the ear can hear, can he not? The one who made the eyes can see, can he not? 


text:
The one who disciplines nations can rebuke them, can he not? The one who teaches mankind can discern, can he not? 


text:
Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand for me against those who practice iniquity? 


text:
Will destructive national leaders, <n>{Lit. destructive throne}</n> who plan wicked things through misuse of the Law, be allied with you? 


text:
He will repay them for their sin; he will annihilate them because of their evil. The Lord our God will annihilate them. 


text:
<n>{Worship and Obedience}</n> d Come! Let us sing joyfully to the Lord! Let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation. 


text:
For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture and the flock in his care. <n>{Lit. flock of his hand}</n> If only you would listen to his voice today, 


text:
do not be stubborn like your ancestors were <n>{Lit. stubborn as at}</n> at Meribah, as on that day at Massah, in the wilderness, 


text:
For forty years I loathed that generation, so I said, "They are a people whose hearts continually err, and they have not understood my ways." 


text:
Declare among the nations, "The Lord reigns!" Indeed, he established the world so that it will not falter. He will judge people fairly. 


text:
The heavens will be glad and the earth will rejoice; even the sea and everything that fills it will roar. <n>{Or thunder}</n> 


text:
in the Lord's presence, because he is coming; indeed, he will come to judge the earth. He will judge the world fairly and its people reliably. 


text:
All who serve carved images and those who praise idols will be humiliated. Worship him, all you "gods" ! 


text:
Zion hears and rejoices; the towns <n>{Lit. daughters}</n> of Judah rejoice on account of your justice, Lord . 


text:
For you, Lord , are the Most High above all the earth; you are exalted high above all divine beings. <n>{Or all gods}</n> 


text:
Hate evil, you who love the Lord ! He guards the lives of those who love him, <n>{Or his saints}</n> delivering them from domination by <n>{Lit. from the hand of}</n> the wicked. 


text:
<n>{Sing Praise to the King}</n> d Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done awesome deeds! His right hand and powerful <n>{Lit. holy}</n> arm <n>{I.e. the Messiah}</n> have brought him victory. 


text:
He has remembered his gracious love; his faithfulness toward the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth saw our God's deliverance. 


text:
Let the sea and everything in it shout, <n>{Lit. thunder}</n> along with the world and its inhabitants; 


text:
in the Lord's presence, who comes to judge the earth; He'll judge the world righteously; and its people fairly. 


text:
<n>{The Lord is Holy}</n> d The Lord reigns let people tremble; he is seated above the cherubim let the earth quake. 


text:
A mighty king who loves justice, you have established fairness. You have exercised justice and righteousness over Jacob. 


text:
Moses and Aaron were among his priests; Samuel also was among those who invoked his name. When they called on the Lord , he answered them. 


text:
Lord our God, you answered them; you were their God who forgave <n>{Lit. carried}</n> them, but also avenged their evil deeds. 


text:
<n>{A psalm of thanksgiving}</n> <n>{Give Thanks to the Lord}</n> d Shout to the Lord all the earth! 


text:
Acknowledge that the Lord is God. He made us and we belong to him; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. 


text:
for the Lord is good and his gracious love stands forever. His faithfulness remains from generation to generation. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm}</n> <n>{Remembering God's Love}</n> d I will sing about gracious love and justice; Lord , I will sing praise to you. 


text:
I will pay attention to living a life of integrity when will I attain it? I will live with integrity of heart in my house. 


text:
I will not even think about doing anything lawless; I hate to do evil deeds; I will have none of it. 


text:
I will not allow anyone with a perverted mind in my presence; I will not be involved with <n>{Lit. not know}</n> anything evil. 


text:
I will destroy the one who secretly slanders a friend. I will not allow the proud and haughty to prevail. 


text:
My eyes are looking at the faithful of the land, so they may live with me; The one who lives a life of integrity will serve me. 


text:
Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land, eliminating everyone who practices iniquity from the Lord's city. 


text:
<n>{A prayer by the afflicted man who is overwhelmed and talks about his troubles with the Lord .}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Help}</n> d Lord , hear my prayer! May my cry for help come to you. 


text:
Do not hide your face from me when I am in trouble. Listen to me. When I call to out you, hurry to answer me! 


text:
You will arise to extend compassion on Zion, for it is time to show her favor the appointed time has come. 


text:
He has weakened my <n>{So MT Qere (oral reading) DSS 4QPsb; Symmachus, Syr, Targ, and Hieronymous; MT Qetiv (written) reads his}</n> strength along the way. <n>{Or strength in mid-course}</n> He has cut short my days. 


text:
I say, "My God, whose years continue through all generations, do not take me in the middle of my life. 


text:
You established the earth long ago; the heavens are the work <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs b ; LXX Targ DSS 11QPs a read works}</n> of your hands. 


text:
They will perish, but you will remain; and they all will become worn out, <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs b 11QPs a ; LXX reads will grow old}</n> like a garment. You <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 4QPs b 11QPs a read And you}</n> will change them like clothing, and they will pass away. 


text:
May the descendants of your servants live securely, and may their children be established in your presence." 


text:
<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{Praise God, who Forgives}</n> d Bless the Lord , my soul, and all that is within me, bless <n>{The Heb. lacks bless}</n> his holy name. 


text:
he continues to redeem your life from the Pit, <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> and he continually surrounds you with gracious love and compassion. 


text:
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, patient, <n>{Lit. slow of anger}</n> and abundantly rich in gracious love. 


text:
As high as heaven rises above earth, so his gracious love strengthens <n>{MT phrase high as sounds like MT verb strengthens}</n> those who fear him. 


text:
Yet the Lord's gracious love remains throughout eternity for those who fear him and his righteous acts extend to their children's children, 


text:
Bless the Lord , you angels who belong to him, you mighty warriors who carry out his commands, who are obedient to the sound of his words. <n>{So LXX 4QPs b ; MT LXX read word}</n> 


text:
Bless the Lord, all his creation, <n>{Lit. works ; or deeds}</n> in all the places of his dominion. Bless the Lord , my soul. 


text:
<n>{Davidic <n>{104:T So LXX DSS 4QPs a 11QPs a ; MT DSS 4QPs d lack this line}</n> }</n> <n>{Praise God, who Creates}</n> d Bless the Lord, my soul; Lord, my God, you are very great. You are clothed in splendor and majesty; 


text:
He lays the beams of his roof loft on the water above, <n>{The Heb. lacks above}</n> making clouds his chariot, walking on the wings of the wind. 


text:
He causes springs to gush forth into rivers that flow between the <n>{So LXX DSS 4QPs d ; the Heb. lacks the}</n> mountains. 


text:
They give water <n>{The Heb. lacks water}</n> for animals of the field to drink; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 


text:
Birds of the sky live beside them and chirp a song <n>{Lit. and they give a voice}</n> among the foliage. 


text:
He waters the mountains from his heavenly rooms; the earth is satisfied from the fruit of your work. 


text:
He causes grass to sprout for the cattle and plants for people to cultivate, to produce food from the land, 


text:
like wine that makes the heart of people <n>{Lit. man}</n> happy, oil that makes the face glow, and food <n>{Or bread}</n> that sustains people. <n>{Lit. heart of man}</n> 


text:
The loftiest trees <n>{Lit. trees of the Lord}</n> are satisfied, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted, 


text:
the birds build their nests there, and the heron builds <n>{The Heb. lacks builds}</n> its nest among the evergreen. 


text:
When the sun rises, they <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 4QPs d 11QPs a read and they}</n> gather and lie down in their dens. 


text:
How numerous are your works, Lord ! You have made them all wisely; the earth is filled with your creations. <n>{Lit. acquisitions}</n> 


text:
All of them look to you to provide them <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks them}</n> their food at the proper time. 


text:
When you withdraw your favor, <n>{Lit. you conceal your face}</n> they are disappointed; Take away their breath, and <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 11QPs a read then}</n> they die <n>{So MT DSS 11QPs a ; LXX reads they will fail}</n> and return to dust. 


text:
When you send your spirit, <n>{Or breath}</n> they are <n>{So MT; LXX reads they will be ; DSS 11QPs a reads then they are}</n> created, and you replenish the surface of the earth. 


text:
I will sing to the Lord with my whole being; <n>{Lit. with my life}</n> I will sing to my God continuously! 


text:
May sinners disappear from the land and the wicked live no longer. Bless the Lord , my soul! Hallelujah! 


text:
<n>{Thanksgiving for God's Deliverance}</n> d Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, and make his deeds known among the people. 


text:
He remembers his eternal covenant every promise he made <n>{Lit. every word he commanded}</n> for a thousand generations, 


text:
they wandered from nation to nation, from one kingdom to another. <n>{105:13Lit. one kingdom to another nation}</n> 


text:
He declared a famine on the land; destroying the entire food supply. <n>{Lit. every staff of bread}</n> 


text:
He caused them <n>{Lit. He turned their hearts}</n> to hate his people and to deceive his servants. 


text:
He sent darkness, and it became dark. Did they not rebel against <n>{So MT DSS 11QPs a ; LXX reads not embitter}</n> his words? 


text:
It destroyed their vines and their figs, breaking trees throughout their country. <n>{Or borders}</n> 


text:
Then he brought Israel <n>{Lit. them}</n> out with silver and gold, and no one among his tribes stumbled. 


text:
The Egyptians rejoiced when they left, because fear of Israel <n>{Lit. them}</n> descended on them. 


text:
He gave to them the land of nations; they inherited the labor of other <n>{The Heb. lacks other}</n> people 


text:
<n>{The Unfaithfulness of God's People}</n> d Hallelujah! Give thanks to the Lord, since he is good, for his gracious love exists forever. 


text:
to witness the prosperity of your chosen ones, to rejoice in your nation's joy, to glory in your inheritance. 


text:
In Egypt, our ancestors neither comprehended your awesome deeds nor remembered your abundant gracious love. Instead, they rebelled beside the sea, the Reed <n>{So MT; LXX reads Red}</n> Sea. 


text:
He shouted at the Reed <n>{So MT; LXX reads Red}</n> Sea and it dried up; and led them through the sea as though through a desert. 


text:
awesome deeds in the land of Ham, <n>{I.e. Egypt}</n> astonishing deeds at the Reed <n>{So MT; LXX reads Red}</n> Sea. 


text:
He would have destroyed them but for Moses, his chosen one, who stood in the breach before him to avert <n>{Or turn back}</n> his destructive wrath. 


text:
to cause their children to perish among the nations and be scattered among many <n>{The Heb. lacks many}</n> lands. 


text:
For they adopted the worship <n>{Lit. they attached themselves with Baal Peor}</n> of Baal Peor and ate sacrifices offered to the dead. 


text:
They provoked wrath at the waters of Meribah, and Moses suffered <n>{Lit. and it was evil for Moses}</n> on account of them. 


text:
For they rebelled against him, <n>{Lit. against his spirit}</n> so that he spoke thoughtlessly with his lips. 


text:
They shed innocent blood the blood of their sons and daughters whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan, thereby polluting the land with blood. 


text:
Therefore, they became unclean because of what they did; they have acted like whores by their evil deeds. 


text:
He delivered them many times, but they demonstrated rebellion by their evil plans; therefore they sunk deep in their sins. 


text:
he remembered his covenant with them, and so relented according to the greatness of his gracious love. 


text:
Deliver us, Lord our God, gather us from among the nations so we may praise your holy name and rejoice in praising you. 


text:
Blessed are you, Lord God of Israel, from eternity to eternity; Let all the people say, "Amen!" Hallelujah! 


text:
<n>{ BOOK V (Psalms 107-150)}</n> <n>{Gratitude for God's Deliverance}</n> d Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His gracious love exists forever. 


text:
Let those who have been redeemed by the Lord declare it those whom he redeemed from the power <n>{Lit. hand}</n> of the enemy, 


text:
those whom he gathered from other lands from the east, west, north, and south. <n>{Lit. and the sea ; i.e. the Reed Sea}</n> 


text:
He humbled them <n>{Lit. humbled their hearts}</n> through suffering, as they stumbled without a helper. 


text:
And he <n>{So LXX DSS 4QPs f ; MT reads He}</n> brought them out from darkness and the shadow of death, <n>{So LXX; MT reads and gloom}</n> shattering their chains. 


text:
Let them give <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4QPs f reads Give}</n> thanks to the Lord for his gracious love, and for his awesome deeds to mankind. 


text:
He issued his command <n>{Lit. word}</n> and healed them; he delivered them from their destruction. 


text:
The people <n>{Lit. They}</n> ascended skyward and descended to the depths, their courage <n>{Lit. souls}</n> melting away in their peril. 


text:
He calmed the storm and its waves <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4QPs f reads and the waves of the sea ; cf. Psa 107:25}</n> quieted down. 


text:
So they rejoiced that the waves <n>{Lit. they}</n> became quiet, and he led them to their desired haven. 


text:
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his gracious love and for his awesome deeds on behalf of mankind. 


text:
Then he blessed them, and they became numerous; he multiplied their cattle. <n>{Or he didn't let their cattle become few}</n> 


text:
<n>{A song. A Davidic psalm.}</n> <n>{A Plea for Victory}</n> d My heart is firm, God; I will sing and praise you with my whole being. 


text:
For your gracious love extends to the sky, <n>{Or is great above the heavens}</n> and your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. 


text:
In order that those you love may be rescued, deliver with your power <n>{Lit. right hand}</n> and answer me! 


text:
God had promised in his sanctuary: "I will triumph and divide Shechem, then I will measure the valley of Succoth! 


text:
<n>{To the Director. A Davidic psalm.}</n> <n>{A Prayer against the Evil One}</n> d God, whom I praise, do not be silent, 


text:
for the mouths of wicked and deceitful people are opened against me; they speak against me with lying tongues. 


text:
Instead of receiving <n>{The Heb. lacks receiving}</n> my love, they accuse me, though I continue in prayer. 


text:
May his children roam around begging, seeking food <n>{The Heb. lacks food}</n> while driven far <n>{So LXX; the Heb. lacks while driven far}</n> from their ruined homes. 


text:
May creditors seize all his possessions, and may foreigners loot the property he has acquired. <n>{Or the result of his labor}</n> 


text:
May his descendants <n>{Lit. May those after him}</n> be eliminated, and their memory <n>{Or their name}</n> be erased from the next generation. 


text:
May his ancestors'guilt be remembered in the Lord's presence, and may his mother's guilt not be erased. 


text:
May what <n>{The Heb. lacks what}</n> they have done <n>{The Heb. lacks have done}</n> be continuously in the Lord's presence; and may their memory be excised from the earth. 


text:
For he didn't think to extend gracious love; he harassed to death the poor, the needy, and the broken hearted. <n>{Or downhearted}</n> 


text:
He loved to curse may his curses <n>{Lit. may it}</n> return upon him! He took no delight in blessing others <n>{The Heb. lacks others}</n> so may blessings <n>{Lit. it}</n> be far from him. 


text:
He wore curses like a garment may they <n>{Lit. it}</n> enter his inner being like water and his bones like oil. 


text:
May those curses <n>{Lit. may it}</n> wrap around him like a garment, or like a belt that one always wears. 


text:
Now you, Lord my God, defend <n>{Lit. God, do to}</n> me for your name's sake; because your gracious love is good, deliver me! 


text:
They will curse, but you will bless. When they attack, <n>{Lit. arise}</n> they will <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs f 11QPs a ; LXX reads arise, let my opponents}</n> be humiliated, while your servant rejoices. 


text:
for he stands <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 11QPs a read he has stood}</n> at the right hand of the needy one, to deliver him from his accusers. <n>{Or from those who condemn him}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Davidic psalm}</n> <n>{A Priestly Ruler}</n> d A declaration from the Lord <n>{So MT; LXX reads The Lord said}</n> to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool." 


text:
Your soldiers <n>{Lit. people}</n> are willing volunteers on your day of battle; in majestic holiness, from the womb, from the dawn, the dew of your youth belongs to you. 


text:
The Lord took an oath and will never recant: "You are a priest forever, after the manner of Melchizedek." 


text:
He will execute judgment against the nations, filling graves <n>{The Heb. lacks graves}</n> with corpses. He will utterly destroy leaders far and wide. 


text:
<n>{Praise for God's Amazing Deeds <n>{111:T In this acrostic psalm each line begins with a consecutive letter of the Heb. alphabet.}</n> d Hallelujah! I will give thanks to the Lord with all of my heart in the assembled congregation of the upright. 


text:
Great are the acts of the Lord; they are within reach of <n>{Or are sought by}</n> all who desire them. 


text:
He revealed his mighty deeds to his people by giving them a country of their own. <n>{Lit. an inheritance of nations}</n> 


text:
Whatever he does is <n>{Lit. The works of his hands are}</n> reliable and just, and all his precepts are trustworthy, 


text:
He sent deliverance to his people; he ordained his covenant to last forever; his name is holy and awesome. 


text:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; sound understanding belongs to those who practice it. Praise of God <n>{Lit. him}</n> endures forever. 


text:
<n>{The Gracious Person <n>{112:T In this acrostic psalm each line begins with a consecutive letter of the Heb. alphabet.}</n> }</n> d Hallelujah! How happy is the person who fears the Lord, who truly delights in his commandments. 


text:
A light shines in the darkness for the upright, for the one who is gracious, compassionate, and just. 


text:
The wicked person sees this and flies into a rage; his teeth gnash and wear away. The desire of the wicked will amount to nothing. 


text:
<n>{Praise to the Loving God}</n> d Hallelujah! Give praise, you servants of the Lord. Praise the name of the Lord ! 


text:
From rising <n>{Lit. from the eastern}</n> to setting <n>{Lit. to the western}</n> sun, may the name of the Lord be praised. 


text:
<n>{Deliverance of Israel from Egypt}</n> d When Israel came out of Egypt the household of Jacob from a people of foreign speech 


text:
The sea saw this <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> and fled, the Jordan River <n>{The Heb. lacks River}</n> ran backwards, 


text:
Mountains, that you skipped like rams? and you hills, that you skipped <n>{The Heb. lacks that you skipped}</n> like lambs? 


text:
<n>{The Impotence of Idols}</n> d Not to us, Lord , not to us, but to your name be given glory on account of your gracious love and faithfulness. 


text:
They have hands, but cannot touch; feet, but cannot walk; they cannot even groan with their throats. 


text:
The Lord remembers and blesses us. He will indeed bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron. 


text:
The highest heavens <n>{Lit. heaven of heaven}</n> belong to the Lord , but he gave the earth to human beings. 


text:
Neither can the dead praise the Lord, nor those who go down into the silence of death. <n>{The Heb. lacks of death}</n> 


text:
<n>{God, My Deliverer}</n> d I love the Lord because he has heard my prayer for mercy; <n>{Lit. the voice of my supplication}</n> 


text:
The ropes of death were wound around me and the anguish of Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> came upon me; I encountered distress and sorrow. 


text:
Indeed, you delivered my soul from death, my eyes from crying, <n>{Lit. tears}</n> and my feet from stumbling. 


text:
Lord , I am indeed your servant. I am your servant. I am the son of your handmaid. You have released my bonds. 


text:
<n>{A Call to Praise the Lord}</n> d Praise the Lord , all you nations! Exalt him, all you peoples! 


text:
<n>{Thanksgiving to God}</n> d Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his gracious love is eternal. 


text:
I called on the Lord in my distress; the Lord answered me openly. <n>{Lit. in a wide open place}</n> 


text:
It is better to take shelter <n>{Or refuge ; LXX DSS 4QPs b 11QPs a read to trust}</n> in the Lord than to trust in people. 


text:
They surrounded me like bees; but they will be extinguished like <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs b ; LXX reads bees; they blazed like a fire among}</n> burning thorns. In the name of the Lord I will defeat them. 


text:
Indeed, you <n>{I.e. the enemy}</n> oppressed me so much that I nearly fell, but the Lord helped me. 


text:
The Lord is my strength and protector, <n>{Or might}</n> for he has become my deliverer. <n>{Or salvation}</n> 


text:
There's exultation <n>{Lit. sound of}</n> for deliverance in the tents of the righteous: "The right hand of the Lord is victorious! <n>{Lit. Lord acted valiantly}</n> 


text:
The right hand of the Lord is exalted! The right hand of the Lord is victorious!" <n>{MT reads Lord acted valiantly ; LXX DSS 11QPs a read Lord acted powerfully}</n> 


text:
The Lord is God he will be our light! Bind the festival sacrifice with ropes to the horn at the altar. 


text:
<n>{Alef <n>{119:T This Psalm is an acrostic in which all verses in each eight-verse section begin with the letter of the Heb. alphabet indicated.}</n> }</n> <n>{Living in the Law of God}</n> d How blessed are those whose life <n>{Lit. way}</n> is blameless, who walk in the Law of the Lord ! 


text:
<n>{Bet}</n> <n>{The Benefits of the Word}</n> d How can a young man keep his behavior pure? By guarding it in accordance with your word. 


text:
I have stored what you have said <n>{So MT DSS 4QPs h ; LXX Syr read stored your oracles}</n> in my heart, so I won't sin against you. 


text:
I have spoken with my lips about all your decrees that you have announced. <n>{Lit. decrees of your mouth}</n> 


text:
I am delighted with your statutes; I will not forget your word. <n>{So MT; LXX Syr DSS 11QPs a read words}</n> 


text:
<n>{Gimmel}</n> <n>{Living and Keeping God's Word}</n> d Deal kindly with your servant so I may live and keep your word. <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 11QPs a read words}</n> 


text:
<n>{Daleth}</n> <n>{Strength Comes from the Word}</n> d My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to your word. 


text:
Help me understand how your precepts function, <n>{Lit. understand the ways of your precepts}</n> and I will meditate on your wondrous acts. 


text:
I have chosen the faithful way; I have firmly placed your ordinances before me. <n>{The Heb. lacks before me}</n> 


text:
I eagerly race along the way of your commands, for you enable me to do so. <n>{Lit. will enlarge my heart}</n> 


text:
<n>{He}</n> <n>{Instructed by the Word}</n> d Teach me, Lord , about the way of your statutes, and I will observe them without fail. <n>{Or them to the end}</n> 


text:
Give me understanding and I will observe your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> I will keep it with all of my heart. 


text:
<n>{Vav}</n> <n>{A Song of Praise}</n> d May your gracious love come to me, Lord , your salvation, just as you said. 


text:
Never take your truthful words from me, For I wait for <n>{Or place my hope in}</n> your ordinances. 


text:
<n>{Zayin}</n> <n>{Remembering What God Has Said}</n> d Remember what you said <n>{Lit. Remember the word}</n> to your servant, by which you caused me to hope. 


text:
Even though the arrogant utterly deride me, I do not turn away from your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
Your statutes are my songs, no matter where I make my home. <n>{Lit. songs in the house of my sojourn}</n> 


text:
<n>{Cheth}</n> <n>{Keeping God's Word}</n> d The Lord is my inheritance; I have given my promise to keep your word. 


text:
Though the ropes of the wicked have ensnared me, I have not forgotten your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
<n>{Teth}</n> <n>{Praise for God's Word}</n> d Lord , you have dealt well with your servant, according to your word. 


text:
Lord , <n>{So LXX Syr DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks Lord}</n> you are good <n>{So MT; LXX reads kind}</n> , and do what is good; teach me your statutes. 


text:
It was for my good that I was humbled; <n>{So MT; LXX reads that you humbled me ; DSS 11QPs a reads that you afflicted me}</n> so that I would learn your statutes. 


text:
Instruction <n>{Or Law}</n> that comes from you <n>{Lit. from your mouth}</n> is better for me than thousands of gold and silver coins. <n>{Lit. pieces}</n> 


text:
<n>{Yod}</n> <n>{Prayer for God's Grace}</n> d Your hands made and formed me; give me understanding, that I may learn your commands. 


text:
May the arrogant become ashamed, because they have subverted me with deceit; as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. 


text:
<n>{Kaf}</n> <n>{On Obeying God's Word}</n> d I long for your deliverance; I have looked to your word, placing my hope in it. 


text:
My eyes grow weary with respect to what you have promised I keep asking, "When will you comfort me?" 


text:
Though I have become like a water skin dried by <n>{The Heb. lacks dried by}</n> smoke, I have not forgotten your statutes. 


text:
How many days must your servant endure this? <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> When will you judge those who persecute me? 


text:
Though the arrogant <n>{Lit. they}</n> nearly destroyed me on earth, I did not abandon your precepts. 


text:
<n>{Lamed}</n> <n>{Pay Attention to God's Word}</n> d Your word is forever, Lord ; it is firmly established in heaven. 


text:
Your faithfulness continues from generation to generation. You established the earth, and it stands firm. 


text:
<n>{Mem}</n> <n>{Loving God's Word}</n> d How I love your instruction! <n>{Or Law}</n> Every day it is my meditation. 


text:
I keep away from every evil choice <n>{Lit. way}</n> so that I may keep your word. <n>{So MT DSS 5QPs; LXX reads words}</n> 


text:
<n>{Nun}</n> <n>{God's Word a Light}</n> d Your word is <n>{So MT and LXX; the DSS 11QPs a reads words are}</n> a lamp for my feet, a light for my pathway. 


text:
Lord , please accept my voluntary offerings of praise, <n>{Lit. of my mouth}</n> and teach me your judgments. 


text:
<n>{Samek}</n> <n>{Loving God's Law}</n> d I despise the double-minded, but I love your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
Sustain me, God, <n>{The Heb. lacks God}</n> as you have promised, and I will live. Do not let me be ashamed of my hope. 


text:
You remove <n>{So MT; Hieronymus Aquila Symmachus read You consider ; LXX reads I considered ; DSS 11QPs a reads I consider}</n> all the wicked of the earth like <n>{The Heb. lacks like}</n> dross; therefore I love your decrees. 


text:
<n>{Ayin}</n> <n>{Praying for God's Deliverance}</n> d I have acted with justice and righteousness; do not abandon me to my oppressors. 


text:
My eyes fail as I look <n>{The Heb. lacks as I look}</n> for your salvation and for your righteous promise. 


text:
<n>{Peyh}</n> <n>{Living in God's Word}</n> d Your decrees are wonderful that's why I observe them. 


text:
<n>{Tsade}</n> <n>{God's Righteous Decrees}</n> d Lord , you are righteous, and your judgments are right. 


text:
<n>{Qof}</n> <n>{Waiting in Hope}</n> d I have cried out with all of my heart. Answer me, Lord ! I will observe your statutes. 


text:
<n>{Resh}</n> <n>{God's Word is Truth}</n> d Look on my misery, and rescue me, for I do not ignore your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
The sum <n>{So MT; LXX reads beginning}</n> of your word <n>{So MT; LXX Hieronymous DSS 11QPs a read words}</n> is truth, and each righteous ordinance of yours is everlasting. 


text:
<n>{Sin/Shin}</n> <n>{Loving God's Instruction}</n> d Though nobles persecute me for no reason, my heart stands in awe of your words. 


text:
I despise and hate falsehood, but <n>{So LXX Syr DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks but}</n> I love your instruction. <n>{Or Law}</n> 


text:
Great peace belongs to those who love your instruction, <n>{Or Law}</n> and nothing makes them stumble. 


text:
<n>{Tav}</n> <n>{The Joy of God's Word}</n> d May my cry arise before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word. 


text:
Let me live, and I will praise you; let your ordinances <n>{So LXX Targ DSS 11QPs a (original); MT reads ordinance}</n> help me. 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents <n>{120:T Or Degrees; and so through Psalm 134}</n> }</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance}</n> d I cried to the Lord in my distress, and he responded to me. 


text:
Like a <n>{The Heb. lacks Like a}</n> sharp arrow from a warrior, along with fiery coals from juniper trees! 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{The Guardian of God's People}</n> d I lift up my eyes toward the mountains from where will my help come? 


text:
He will never let <n>{So MT; LXX reads Do not let}</n> your foot slip, nor <n>{So LXX Syr Hieronymous DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks nor}</n> will <n>{So MT; LXX reads nor let}</n> your guardian become drowsy. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{Up to Jerusalem}</n> d I rejoiced when they kept on asking me, "Let us go to the Lord's Temple." 


text:
To it the tribes ascend the tribes of the Lord as decreed to Israel, to give thanks to the name of the Lord . 


text:
May peace be within your ramparts, and <n>{So LXX Syr DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> prosperity <n>{Or peacefulness ; LXX reads abundance}</n> within your fortresses." 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Relief}</n> d To you, who sit enthroned in heaven, I lift up my eyes. 


text:
Consider this: as the eyes of a servant focus on what his master provides, <n>{Lit. on the hand of his master}</n> and as the eyes of a female servant focus <n>{The Heb. lacks focus}</n> on what her mistress provides, <n>{Lit. on the hand of her mistress}</n> so our eyes focus on the Lord our God, until he has mercy on us. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{God is for Us}</n> d If the Lord had not been on our side let Israel now say 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{God is Secure}</n> d Those who are trusting in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be overthrown. They remain forever. 


text:
For evil's scepter will not rest on the land that has been allotted to the righteous, and so the righteous will not direct themselves <n>{Lit. will not set their hands}</n> to do wrong. 


text:
Lord , do good to those who are good, and to those who are upright in heart. <n>{So LXX DSS 4QPs e 11QPs a ; MT reads in their hearts}</n> 


text:
But for those who choose their own devious paths, the Lord will lead them away, along with those who practice evil. Peace be upon Israel. 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{The Exiles Restored}</n> d When the Lord brought back Zion's exiles, <n>{Or fortunes}</n> we were like dreamers. <n>{So MT; LXX DSS11QPsa read were restored}</n> 


text:
Then our mouths were filled with laughter, and our tongues formed joyful shouts. Then it was said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." 


text:
Restore our exiles, <n>{Or fortunes}</n> Lord , like the streams of the Negev. <n>{I.e. the southern regions of the Sinai peninsula; cf. Josh 10:40}</n> 


text:
The one who goes out weeping, <n>{So MT and DSS 11QPs a (corrected); LXX DSS 11QPs a (original) read out and weeps}</n> carrying a bag of seeds, will surely return with a joyful song, bearing sheaves from his harvest. <n>{The Heb. lacks harvest}</n> 


text:
<n>{A Solomonic Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{God's Blessing in the Family}</n> d Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor uselessly. Unless the Lord guards the city, its security forces keep watch uselessly. 


text:
It is useless to get up early and to stay up late, <n>{Lit. delay sitting}</n> eating the food of exhausting labor truly he gives sleep to those he loves. 


text:
Children <n>{Lit . Sons}</n> are a gift <n>{Lit. heritage}</n> from the Lord ; a productive womb, the Lord's <n>{The Heb. lacks Lord's}</n> reward. 


text:
As arrows in the hand of a warrior, so also are children <n>{Lit. sons}</n> born during one's <n>{The Heb. lacks born during one's}</n> youth. 


text:
How blessed <n>{Or happy}</n> is the man whose quiver is full of them! He <n>{Lit. They}</n> will not be ashamed as they confront their enemies at the city gate. 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{The Blessings of Fearing God}</n> d How blessed <n>{Or happy}</n> are all who fear the Lord as they follow in his ways. 


text:
Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children <n>{Lit. sons}</n> like olive shoots surrounding your table. 


text:
May the Lord bless you from Zion, and may you observe the prosperity of Jerusalem every day that you live! 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{God Defeats Israel's Enemies}</n> d "Since my youth they have often persecuted me," let Israel repeat it, 


text:
Wicked people <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPs a ; MT reads The ploughman}</n> ploughed over my back, creating long-lasting wounds." <n>{Or long furrows ; LXX reads back; they prolonged their lawlessness}</n> 


text:
And may those who pass by never tell them, "May the Lord's blessing be upon you. We bless you in the name of the Lord ." 


text:
Lord, listen to my voice; let your ears pay attention to what I ask of you! <n>{Lit. to the voice of my supplications}</n> 


text:
My soul looks to the Lord more than watchmen look for the morning more, indeed, than <n>{The Heb. lacks more indeed, than}</n> watchmen for the morning. 


text:
Israel, hope in the Lord ! For with the Lord there is gracious love, along with abundant redemption. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{Hope in the Lord}</n> d Lord , my heart is not arrogant, nor do I look haughty. I do not aspire <n>{Lit. walk}</n> to great things, nor concern myself with things beyond my ability. 


text:
Instead, I have composed and quieted myself like a weaned child with its mother; I am like a weaned child. 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{The Lord Lives in Zion}</n> d Lord , remember in David's favor all of his troubles; 


text:
"I will not enter <n>{Lit. enter the tent that is}</n> my house, or lie down on <n>{Lit. on the couch that is}</n> my bed, 


text:
or let myself go to sleep <n>{Lit. or give sleep to my eyes}</n> or even take a nap, <n>{Lit. or let my eyelids slumber}</n> 


text:
We heard about it <n>{I.e. the Ark of the Covenant}</n> in Ephrata; <n>{I.e. the region of Bethlehem}</n> we found it in the fields of Jaar. <n>{1Sam 7:1-2; 1Chr 16:5-6}</n> 


text:
The Lord made an oath to David from which he will not retreat: "One of your sons I will set in place on your throne. 


text:
If your sons keep my covenant and my statutes that I will teach them, then their sons will also sit on your throne forever." 


text:
There I will create a power base <n>{Lit. will cause a horn to sprout}</n> for David I have prepared a lamp for my anointed one. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{The Significance of Unity}</n> d Look how good and how pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! 


text:
It is like precious oil on the head, descending to the beard even to Aaron's beard and flowing down to the edge of his robes. 


text:
It is like the dew of Hermon falling on Zion's mountains. For there the Lord commanded his blessing life everlasting. 


text:
<n>{A Song of Ascents}</n> <n>{Praise to the Creator}</n> d Now bless the Lord , all you servants of the Lord who serve <n>{Lit. stand}</n> nightly in the Lord's Temple. 


text:
<n>{Praising God for His Graciousness}</n> d Hallelujah! Praise the name of the Lord ! Give praise, you servants of the Lord , 


text:
Indeed, I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 11QPs a reads God}</n> surpasses all gods. 


text:
The Lord does whatever pleases him in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all its <n>{So DSS 11QPs a ; MT LXX lack its}</n> deep regions. 


text:
He makes the clouds rise from the ends of the earth; fashioning lightning for the rain, bringing the wind from his storehouses. 


text:
It was the Lord <n>{Lit. was he}</n> who struck down the firstborn of Egypt, including both men and animals. 


text:
The idols of the nations are silver and gold, worked by <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 4QPs k reads gold, products of}</n> the hands of human beings. 


text:
Mouths are attributed to them, but they cannot speak; sight is attributed to them, but they cannot see; 


text:
Those who craft them and all <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPs a ; the lacks and}</n> who trust in them will become like them. 


text:
<n>{God's Gracious Love}</n> d Give thanks to the Lord , for he is good, for his gracious love is everlasting. 


text:
the sun to illumine <n>{Lit. govern ; cf. Gen 1:16}</n> the day, for his gracious love is everlasting 


text:
and the moon and stars to illumine <n>{Lit. govern ; cf. Gen 1:16}</n> the night, for his gracious love is everlasting 


text:
with a strong hand and an active <n>{Lit. outstretched}</n> arm, for his gracious love is everlasting. 


text:
To the one who split the Reed <n>{So MT; LXX reads Red}</n> Sea in two for his gracious love is everlasting 


text:
and cast Pharaoh and his armies into the Reed <n>{So MT; LXX reads Red}</n> Sea, for his gracious love is everlasting. 


text:
<n>{Remembering Jerusalem}</n> d There we sat down and cried by the rivers of Babylon as we remembered Zion. 


text:
for it was there that our captors asked us for songs and our torturers demanded joy from us, "Sing us one of the songs about Zion!" 


text:
May my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don't remember you, if I don't consider Jerusalem to be more important than my highest joy. 


text:
Remember the day of Jerusalem's fall, <n>{The Heb. lacks fall}</n> Lord, because of <n>{Lit. against}</n> the Edomites, who kept saying, "Tear it down! Tear it right down to its foundations!" 


text:
Daughter of Babylon! You devastator! How blessed will be the one who pays you back for what you have done to us. 


text:
<n>{Thanksgiving to God}</n> d Lord , <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPs a ; MT and Aquilla lack Lord}</n> I thank <n>{So MT; LXX reads acknowledge}</n> you with all of my heart; because you heard the words that I spoke, <n>{So LXX; MT DSS lack this line}</n> I will sing your praise before the heavenly beings. <n>{Or the gods ; LXX reads the angels}</n> 


text:
I will bow down in worship toward your holy Temple and give thanks to your name for your gracious love and truth, for you have done great things to carry out your word consistent with your name. 


text:
Lord , all the kings of the earth will give you thanks, for they have heard what you have spoken. <n>{Lit. heard the words of your mouth}</n> 


text:
Though the Lord is highly exalted, yet he pays attention to those who are lowly regarded, but he is aware of the arrogant from afar. 


text:
Though I walk straight into trouble, you preserve my life, stretching out your hand to fight the vehemence of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. 


text:
The Lord will complete what his purpose is for me. Lord , your gracious love is eternal; do not abandon your personal work in me. <n>{Lit. abandon the work of your hand}</n> 


text:
<n>{To the Music Director: A Davidic Song}</n> <n>{God's Knowledge and Presence}</n> d Lord , you have examined me; you have known me. 


text:
You know when I rest <n>{Lit. know my sitting}</n> and when I am active. <n>{Lit. and my rising}</n> You understand what I am thinking when I am distant from you. <n>{Or thinking from a distance}</n> 


text:
You scrutinize my life and my rest; <n>{Or death ; Lit. my path and my lying down}</n> you are familiar with all of my ways. 


text:
<n>{The Magnitude of God}</n> d Where can I flee from your spirit? Or where will I run from your presence? 


text:
If I rise to heaven, there you are! If I lay down with the dead, <n>{Lit. to Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> there you are! 


text:
If I take wings with the dawn and settle down on the western horizon <n>{Lit. the end of the sea}</n> 


text:
If I say, "Darkness will surely conceal me, and the light around me will become night," <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 11QPs a reads And let me say, "Surely darkness conceals and night has girded me about."}</n> 


text:
even darkness isn't dark to you, darkness and light are the same to you. <n>{The Heb. lacks to you}</n> 


text:
It was you who formed my internal organs, <n>{Lit. my kidneys}</n> fashioning me within my mother's womb. 


text:
I praise you, because you are fearful and wondrous! <n>{So DSS 11QPsa Syr Hieronymus; MT LXX read because I am fearfully and wonderfully made}</n> Your work is wonderful, and I am fully aware of it. 


text:
My frame was not hidden from you while I was being crafted in a hidden place, knit together in the depths of the earth. 


text:
Your eyes looked upon my embryo, and everything was recorded in your book. The days scheduled <n>{The Heb. lacks scheduled}</n> for my formation were inscribed, even though not one of them had come yet. <n>{The Heb. lacks had come yet}</n> 


text:
God, if only you would execute the wicked, so that <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPsa; MT reads and so that}</n> the men guilty of bloodshed would get away from me, 


text:
<n>{To the Music Director: A Davidic Song}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Deliverance}</n> d <n>{V.1 is v. 2 in MT, and so throughout the chapter.}</n> Deliver me, Lord , from evil people, preserve me from violent men, 


text:
who craft evil plans in their minds, inciting wars every day. <n>{Lit. all day ; LXX DSS 11QPs a read all the day}</n> 


text:
The arrogant have laid a trap for me; they have spread a net with ropes, lining it with snares along the way. Interlude


text:
Lord , my Lord, my strong deliverer, you have protected my head in the time <n>{Lit. day}</n> of battle. 


text:
Never grant, Lord , the desires of the wicked; never condone their plans so they cannot exalt themselves. Interlude


text:
May burning coals fall on them; may they be cast into fire, and into miry pits, never to rise again. 


text:
Let not the slanderer <n>{Lit. the man of tongue}</n> become established in the land. May evil quickly hunt down the violent man. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song}</n> <n>{A Prayer for Maturity}</n> d Lord , I call to you, be quick to listen to me when I cry out! 


text:
Let my prayer be like incense offered before you, and my uplifted hands like the evening sacrifice. 


text:
Don't let my heart turn toward evil or involve itself in wicked activities with men who practice iniquity. Let me not feast on their delicacies. 


text:
Let one who is righteous strike me in gracious love and let him rebuke me; it is oil for my head, do not let my head refuse it. My prayers continually will be against their wicked activities. 


text:
When their judges are thrown off the cliff, the people <n>{Lit. they}</n> will hear my words, for they are appropriate. 


text:
Just as one plows and breaks up the earth, our <n>{So MT LXX; DSS 11QPs a reads my ; Syr reads their}</n> bones are scattered near the entrance to the place of the dead. <n>{Lit. to Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> 


text:
Nevertheless, my eyes are on you, Lord God , as I seek protection in you. Don't leave me defenseless! 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song, when he was in the cave. <n>{142:T cf. 1Sam 24:3-4}</n> A prayer.}</n> <n>{A Call to God for Help}</n> d My voice cries out to the Lord ; my voice pleads for mercy to the Lord . 


text:
Though my spirit grows faint within me, you are aware of my path. Wherever I go, they have hidden a trap for me. 


text:
I look to my right <n>{So LXX and DSS 11QPs a ; MT reads Look to the right}</n> and observe no one is concerned about me. There is nowhere I can go for refuge, and no one cares for me. 


text:
So I cry to you, Lord, declaring, "You are my refuge, my only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> possession while I am on this earth." <n>{Lit. possession in the land of the living}</n> 


text:
Pay attention to my cry, for I have been brought very low. Deliver me from my tormentors, for they are far too strong for me. 


text:
Break me out of this prison, so I can give thanks to your name. The righteous will surround me, for you will deal generously with me. 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Song}</n> <n>{Longing for God}</n> d Lord , hear my prayer; pay attention to my request, because you are faithful; answer me in your righteousness. 


text:
For those who oppose me are pursuing my life, crushing me to the ground, making me sit in darkness like those who died long ago. 


text:
I remember the former times, meditating on everything you have done. I think about the work <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 11QPs a read works}</n> of your hands. 


text:
Answer me quickly, Lord ; my spirit is failing. Do not hide your face from me; otherwise, I will become like those who descend to the Pit, <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
In the morning let me hear of your gracious love, for in you I trust. Cause me to know the way I should take, because I have set my hope on you. 


text:
For the sake of your name, Lord , preserve my life. Because you are righteous, bring me out of trouble. 


text:
Because of your gracious love, you will cut off my enemies. You will destroy all who oppose me, for I am your servant. 


text:
<n>{Davidic}</n> <n>{A Song for God's Provision}</n> d Blessed be the Lord , my rock, who trains my hands for battle and my fingers for warfare, 


text:
he is my gracious love and my fortress, my strong tower and my deliverer, my shield and the one in whom I find refuge, who subdues <n>{So LXX; the Heb. lacks subdues}</n> peoples <n>{So DSS 11QPs a Sebir Aquila Syr Targ Hieronymus; cf. Psa 18:48; 2 Sam 22:48; LXX reads subdues my people}</n> under me. 


text:
Lord , what are human beings, that you should care about them, or mortal man, that you should think about him? 


text:
Bow your heavens, Lord , and descend; <n>{So MT (imperfect verb); LXX, DSS 11QPs a read and descend! ; i.e. a verb of command}</n> touch the mountains, and they will smolder. 


text:
Send forth lightning and scatter the enemy, <n>{Lit. scatter them}</n> shoot your arrows and confuse them. 


text:
Reach down your hand from your high place; rescue me and deliver me from mighty waters, from the control of foreigners. <n>{Lit. the hand of the sons of strangers}</n> 


text:
Rescue me and deliver me from the control of foreigners, <n>{Lit. the hand of the sons of strangers}</n> whose mouths speak lies, and whose right hand deceives. <n>{I.e. they swear to false oaths}</n> 


text:
May our sons in their youth be like full-grown plants, and our daughters like pillars destined to decorate a palace. 


text:
May our granaries be filled, storing produce in abundance; may our sheep bring forth thousands, even tens of thousands in our fields. 


text:
May our cattle grow heavy with young, with no damage or loss. May there be no cry of anguish in our streets! 


text:
<n>{A Davidic Psalm <n>{145:T In this acrostic psalm each verse begins with a successive letter of the Heb. alphabet, except that v13b, corresponding to the Heb. Letter nun, is missing from MT}</n> }</n> <n>{Praising God for His Works}</n> d I will speak highly of you, my God and King, and I will bless your name forever and ever. 


text:
I <n>{So MT; LXX Syr DSS 11QPs a read They}</n> will speak about the glorious splendor of your majesty as well as <n>{So LXX DSS 11QPs a ; the Heb. lacks as}</n> your awesome actions. 


text:
People <n>{Lit. They}</n> will speak about the might of your great deeds, and I will announce your greatness. 


text:
They will extol the fame of your abundant goodness, and will sing out loud about your righteousness. 


text:
in order to make known your mighty acts to mankind <n>{Lit. the children of the Man}</n> as well as the majestic splendor of your kingdom. 


text:
b God <n>{So DSS 11QPs a ; LXX Vg Syr read The Lord; MT lacks this v.}</n> is faithful about everything he says and merciful in everything he does. The Lord supports everyone who falls and raises up those who are bowed down. 


text:
You <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 11QPs a read You yourself}</n> open your hand continually and keep on satisfying the desire of every living thing. 


text:
The Lord remains near to all who call out to him, to everyone who calls out to him sincerely. <n>{Or truthfully}</n> 


text:
who brings justice for the oppressed, and who gives food to the hungry. The Lord frees the prisoners; 


text:
the Lord gives sight to the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are weighed down. The Lord loves the righteous. 


text:
The Lord stands guard over the stranger; he supports both widows and orphans, but makes the path of the wicked slippery. <n>{Or treacherous}</n> 


text:
<n>{Praise for God's Provision}</n> d Hallelujah! It is good to sing praise to our God, and it is fitting to sing glorious praise. 


text:
He shields the heavens with clouds, preparing rain for the earth and making grass grow on the hills. 


text:
He takes no delight in the strength of a horse, and gains no pleasure in the runner's swiftness. <n>{Lit. the legs of a man}</n> 


text:
He grants peace within your borders, satisfying <n>{So MT; LXX DSS 4QPs d read borders, and satisfies}</n> you with the finest of wheat. 


text:
He sends out his command to the earth, making <n>{The Heb. lacks making}</n> his word go forth quickly. 


text:
He casts down his ice crystals like bread <n>{The Heb. lacks bread}</n> fragments. Who can endure his freezing cold? 


text:
He has not dealt with any other nation like this; they never knew <n>{So MT; LXX reads he did not explain to them ; Syr Targ DSS 11QPs a read he has not revealed to them}</n> his decrees. Hallelujah! 


text:
<n>{Let All the Earth Praise the Lord}</n> d Hallelujah! Praise the Lord from heaven; praise him in the highest places. 


text:
Let them praise the name of the Lord , for his name alone is lifted up; his majesty transcends earth and heaven. 


text:
He has raised up a source of strength <n>{Lit. a horn}</n> for his people, an object of praise for all of his holy ones, that is, for the people of Israel who are near him. Hallelujah! 


text:
<n>{A Song About Rejoicing in God}</n> d Hallelujah! Sing a new song to the Lord , praising him where the godly gather together. 


text:
Let high praises to God be heard <n>{The Heb. lacks heard}</n> in their throats, while they wield two-edged swords in their hands 


text:
and executing the judgment written against them. This is honor for all the ones he loves. Hallelujah! 


text:
<n>{A Psalm of Praise}</n> d Hallelujah! Praise God in his Holy Place. Praise him in his great expanse. 


text:
<n>{ The Book of}</n> <n>{ Proverbs}</n> d <n>{Introduction and Purpose}</n> d The proverbs of David's son Solomon, king of Israel. 


text:
These proverbs are <n>{The Heb. lacks These proverbs are}</n> for gaining <n>{Or knowing}</n> wisdom and discipline; <n>{Or instruction}</n> for understanding words of insight; 


text:
for acquiring the discipline <n>{Or instruction}</n> that produces wise behavior, righteousness, justice, and upright living; <n>{Lit. and uprightness}</n> 


text:
Let the wise listen and increase their <n>{The Heb. lacks their}</n> learning; let the person of understanding receive guidance 


text:
<n>{The Major Theme}</n> d The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. <n>{Or instruction}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Minor Theme}</n> d My son, listen to your father's instruction, and do not let go of your mother's teaching. 


text:
If they say, "Come with us! Let's lie in wait for blood; let's ambush some innocent person for no reason at all. 


text:
Let's swallow them alive like Sheol, <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead; possibly an allusion to the rebellion of Korah (cf. Num 16:33)}</n> and whole like those who go down into the Pit. <n>{I.e. the place of punishment in the afterlife}</n> 


text:
My son, do not go along with them, <n>{Lit. in the way with them}</n> and keep your feet away from their paths! 


text:
For they <n>{Lit. For their feet}</n> run toward evil; these enticers <n>{Lit. they}</n> shed blood without hesitation. <n>{Lit. blood quickly}</n> 


text:
but these people <n>{Lit. they}</n> lie in wait for their own blood. <n>{The Heb. lacks their own}</n> They ambush only themselves. 


text:
Such is the way of all those who seek illicit gain it takes away the lives of those who possess it. 


text:
<n>{The Benefits of Choosing Wisdom}</n> d Wisdom cries out in the street; she raises her voice in the public squares. 


text:
She calls out at the busiest part <n>{Lit. head}</n> of the noisy streets, <n>{So MT; LXX Syr Targ read and on top of the walls}</n> and at the entrance to the gates of the city she utters her words: 


text:
"You nave ones, how long will you love naivet? And how long will scoffers delight in scoffing or fools hate knowledge?" 


text:
Return to my correction! Look, I will pour out my spirit on you, and I will make my words known to you. 


text:
<n>{The Consequences of Refusing Wisdom}</n> d "Because I called out to you and you refused to respond <n>{Lit. you refused}</n> I appealed, <n>{Lit. I stretched out my hand}</n> but no one paid attention 


text:
because <n>{The Heb. lacks because}</n> you neglected all my advice and did not want my correction, 


text:
when what you dread comes like a storm, and your calamity comes on like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. 


text:
"Then they will call out to me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find me. 


text:
They will eat the fruit <n>{I.e. experience the consequences}</n> of their way, and they will be filled with their own devices. 


text:
Indeed, the waywardness <n>{So MT; DSS 4QProv a reads narrow-mindedness ; lit. the pull of ; LXX reads Because they would wrong the nave, they will be murdered}</n> of the nave will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. 


text:
<n>{The Benefits of Embracing Wisdom}</n> d My son, if you accept my words, and treasure my instructions <n>{Lit. instructions within you}</n> 


text:
and from those who abandon the right <n>{Lit. straight or upright}</n> path to travel along the ways of darkness; 


text:
delivering you from the adulteress, from the immoral <n>{Lit. foreign ; i.e. one whose values are foreign to God's Law}</n> woman with her seductive words, 


text:
<n>{The Blessings of Trusting God}</n> d My son, don't forget my instruction, and keep my commandments carefully in mind. <n>{Lit. Let your heart keep my commandments}</n> 


text:
Do not let gracious love and truth leave you. Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, 


text:
because the Lord corrects the person he loves, just as a father corrects <n>{The Heb. lacks corrects}</n> the son he delights in. <n>{So MT; LXX reads loves, and he punishes every son he accepts}</n> 


text:
<n>{Wisdom More Valuable than Riches}</n> d How joyful is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding, 


text:
<n>{Benefits of Wisdom}</n> d My son, do not let wisdom <n>{The Heb. lacks wisdom}</n> leave your sight. Carefully observe sound judgment and discernment, 


text:
When you sit <n>{So LXX; MT reads lie}</n> down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be pleasant. <n>{Or sweet}</n> 


text:
Do not be afraid of sudden disaster, <n>{Lit. terror}</n> or the devastation that comes to the wicked. 


text:
<n>{Wisdom in Action}</n> d Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. 


text:
Do not say to your neighbor, "Go, and come back. I will pay you <n>{Lit. it}</n> tomorrow," when you have cash <n>{The Heb. lacks cash}</n> with you. 


text:
Indeed, a perverse man is utterly disgusting <n>{Lit. an abomination}</n> to the Lord , but he takes the upright into his confidence. <n>{Lit. but his secret counsel is with the upright}</n> 


text:
<n>{Diligently Pursue Wisdom}</n> d Listen, children, <n>{Lit. sons}</n> to your father's instruction, and pay attention in order to gain understanding. 


text:
he taught me and told me, "Let your heart fully embrace what I have to say; <n>{Lit. embrace my words}</n> keep my commandments and live! 


text:
"Wisdom is of utmost importance, therefore get wisdom, and with all your effort work to acquire understanding. 


text:
Listen, my son: accept my words, and you'll live a long, long time. <n>{Lit. and the years of your life will be many}</n> 


text:
I have directed you in the way of wisdom, and I have led you along straight <n>{Or upright}</n> paths. 


text:
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go! Guard wisdom, <n>{Lit. her}</n> because she is your life! 


text:
<n>{Avoiding the Ways of the Wicked}</n> d Do not enter the path of the wicked, or go along the way of evil men. 


text:
For they cannot sleep unless they are doing evil, and they are robbed of their sleep unless they cause someone to stumble. 


text:
The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn that grows brighter until the full light of day. 


text:
But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness, and they do not know what they are stumbling over. 


text:
<n>{Remembering the Counsel of a Wise Father}</n> d My son, pay attention to my words, and listen closely <n>{Lit. turn your ear}</n> to what I say. 


text:
Above everything else <n>{Lit. Above all watching}</n> guard your heart, because from it flow the springs of life. 


text:
Never talk deceptively and don't keep company with people whose speech is corrupt. <n>{Lit. keep corrupt lips far from you}</n> 


text:
Carefully measure <n>{Lit. Weigh}</n> the paths for your feet, and all your ways will be established. 


text:
<n>{Warning against Sexual Immorality}</n> d My son, pay attention to my wisdom, and listen closely to my insight, 


text:
For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech <n>{Lit. palate}</n> is smoother than oil. 


text:
But in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, <n>{ Wormwood is a plant with an extremely bitter taste.}</n> and as sharp as a double-edged sword. 


text:
You aren't thinking about <n>{Or She does not consider}</n> where her life is headed; her steps wander, but you do not realize <n>{Or she does not realize}</n> it. 


text:
Now, children, <n>{Or sons}</n> listen to me. Don't turn away from what I am saying. <n>{Lit. from the words of my mouth}</n> 


text:
so that you don't give your honor to others, and waste your best years; <n>{Lit. and your years to the cruel}</n> 


text:
so that strangers don't enrich themselves at your expense, <n>{Lit. don't satisfy themselves with your strength}</n> and your work won't end up the possession of foreigners. <n>{Lit. won't go into a foreigner's house}</n> 


text:
and you will say, "How I hated instruction, <n>{Or discipline}</n> and my heart rejected correction! 


text:
Now I am at the point of utter disaster in <n>{Lit. in the midst of}</n> the assembly and in the congregation." 


text:
<n>{The Delights of Marital Faithfulness}</n> d Drink water from your own cistern, and fresh <n>{Lit. flowing}</n> water from your own well. 


text:
Like a loving deer, a beautiful doe, let her breasts satisfy you all the time. Be constantly intoxicated by her love. 


text:
Indeed, what a man does is <n>{Lit. Indeed, a man's ways are}</n> always in the Lord's presence, <n>{Lit. in front of the Lord's eyes}</n> and he weighs all his paths. 


text:
<n>{The Folly of Guaranteeing Loans}</n> d My son, if you guarantee a loan for your neighbor, if you have agreed to a deal <n>{Lit. have clapped your hands ; i.e. have shaken hands}</n> with a stranger, 


text:
then do this, my son, and deliver yourself, because you have come under your neighbor's control. <n>{Lit. into the hands of your neighbor}</n> Go, humble yourself! Plead passionately with your neighbor! 


text:
Deliver yourself like a gazelle from a hunter's hand, <n>{So MT; LXX Syr Targ read from the hunter ; or a noose}</n> or like a bird from a fowler's hand. 


text:
<n>{The Folly of Causing Strife}</n> d A worthless man, a wicked man, goes around with devious speech, 


text:
winking with his eyes, making signs <n>{Lit. scraping}</n> with <n>{The Heb. lacks with}</n> his feet, pointing with his fingers, 


text:
Therefore, disaster will overtake him suddenly. He will be broken in an instant, and he will never recover. 


text:
<n>{What God Hates}</n> d Here are six things that the Lord hates seven, in fact, <n>{The Heb. lacks in fact}</n> are detestable to him: <n>{Lit. to his soul}</n> 


text:
<n>{Parental Counsel about Immorality}</n> d Keep your father's commands, my son, and never forsake your mother's rules, <n>{Or laws}</n> 


text:
During your travels wisdom <n>{Lit. wisdom; i .e. wisdom personified as a woman}</n> will lead you; she will watch over you while you rest; and when you are startled from your sleep, she will commune with you. 


text:
to protect you from the evil <n>{So MT; LXX reads married}</n> woman, from the words of the seductive woman. 


text:
Do not focus on her beauty in your mind, nor allow her to take you prisoner with her flirting eyes, 


text:
because the price of a whore is a loaf of bread, and an adulterous woman stalks a man's precious life. 


text:
So also is it with someone who has sex with his neighbor's wife; anyone touching her will not remain unpunished. 


text:
A thief isn't despised if he steals to meet his needs <n>{Lit. to refresh his soul}</n> when he is hungry, 


text:
because jealousy incites <n>{The Heb. lacks incites}</n> a strong man's rage, and he will show no mercy when it's time for revenge. 


text:
He will not consider any payment, nor will he be willing to accept it, <n>{The Heb. lacks to accept it}</n> no matter how large the bribe. 


text:
Keep my commands and you'll live. Guard <n>{The Heb. lacks Guard}</n> my teaching as you do your eyesight. 


text:
All of a sudden he follows her like an ox fit for slaughter or like a fool fit for a trap <n>{So MT; LXX reads a dog fit for chains}</n> 


text:
until an arrow pierces his liver. As a bird darts into a snare, he doesn't realize his fatal decision. <n>{Lit. realize it is his life}</n> 


text:
Don't be led astray by her lifestyle, <n>{Lit. ways}</n> and don't imitate her behavior. <n>{Lit. paths}</n> 


text:
<n>{Wisdom Calls for an Audience}</n> d Isn't wisdom calling out; isn't understanding raising her voice? 


text:
Listen, because I have noble things to say, and what I have to say <n>{Lit. my open lips}</n> will reveal what is right. 


text:
Everything I have to say is just; there isn't anything corrupt or perverse in my speech. <n>{Lit. words}</n> 


text:
Everything I say is sensible to someone who understands, and correct to those who have acquired knowledge. 


text:
because wisdom is better than precious gems <n>{Or rubies}</n> and nothing you desire can compare to it." 


text:
<n>{The Way of Wisdom}</n> d "I, wisdom, am related to <n>{Lit. wisdom, live with}</n> prudence. I know how to be discreet. 


text:
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil. Pride, arrogance, an evil lifestyle, and perverted speech I despise. 


text:
By me leaders rule, as do noble officials and all who govern justly. <n>{So MT; LXX reads and tyrants rule the earth}</n> 


text:
My fruit is better than gold, better <n>{The Heb. lacks better}</n> than even refined gold, and my benefit surpasses the purest silver. 


text:
<n>{The Agelessness of Wisdom}</n> d "The Lord made me as he began his planning, <n>{Lit. ways}</n> before his ancient activity commenced. 


text:
When there were no ocean depths, I brought them <n>{The Heb. lacks them}</n> to birth at a time when there were no springs. 


text:
Before the mountains were shaped, before there were hills, I was bringing them <n>{The Heb. lacks them}</n> to birth. 


text:
when he set a boundary for the sea so the waters would not exceed his limits, <n>{Lit. command}</n> when he marked out the foundations of the earth. 


text:
Then I was with him, his master craftsman I was his delight <n>{So LXX; MT reads was filled with delight}</n> daily, continuously rejoicing in his presence, 


text:
<n>{Wisdom's Invitation}</n> d Wisdom <n>{I.e. wisdom personified as a woman}</n> has built her house; she has hewn out her seven pillars. 


text:
She has prepared her food, <n>{Or meat}</n> she has spiced <n>{Or mixed}</n> her wine, and she also has set her dining table. 


text:
<n>{Wisdom Extends Life}</n> d Whoever corrects a mocker invites only insult, <n>{Lit. insult to himself}</n> and whoever rebukes the wicked will himself become stained. 


text:
Counsel a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will add to his learning. 


text:
The fear of the Lord is where wisdom begins, and knowing holiness <n>{Or knowing holy ones}</n> demonstrates understanding. 


text:
She calls out to those passing by on the road, who are minding their own business, <n>{Or are going straight on their way}</n> 


text:
But he does not realize that the dead lurk there, and her invited guests wind up in the depths of Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> 


text:
<n>{Solomon's Sayings}</n> d The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grieves his mother. 


text:
<n>{The Righteous and Wicked Compared}</n> d Blessings come <n>{The Heb. lacks come}</n> upon the head of the righteous, but the words <n>{Lit. mouth}</n> of the wicked conceal violence. 


text:
The reputation <n>{Lit. memorial}</n> of the righteous leads to blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot. 


text:
The wise person <n>{Lit. wise in heart}</n> accepts commands, but the chattering fool will be brought down. 


text:
Whoever walks in integrity lives prudently, <n>{Lit. lives in safety}</n> but whoever perverts his way of life will be exposed. 


text:
Those who wink their eyes <n>{I.e. Those whose looks communicate insincerity}</n> are trouble makers, and the mocking fool will be brought down. <n>{So MT; LXX reads makers, but the one who reproves publicly makes peace}</n> 


text:
What the righteous say <n>{Lit. The mouth of the righteous}</n> is a flowing fountain, <n>{Lit. a fountain of life}</n> but what the wicked say <n>{Lit. but the mouth of the wicked}</n> conceals violence. 


text:
Wisdom characterizes the speech <n>{Lit. Wisdom is found on the lips}</n> of the discerning, but the rod is for the backs of those lacking discernment. 


text:
Those who are wise store up knowledge, but when the fool speaks, <n>{Lit. but the mouth of the fool}</n> destruction is near. 


text:
The rich hide within the fortress that is their wealth, but the poor are dismayed due to their poverty. 


text:
Honorable wages lead <n>{The Heb. lacks lead}</n> to life; the salaries of the wicked, to retribution. 


text:
Whoever heeds correction is on the pathway to life, but someone who ignores exhortation goes astray. 


text:
What the righteous person says <n>{Lit. The tongue of the righteous}</n> is like precious silver; the thoughts of the wicked are compared to small things. 


text:
What the righteous person says <n>{Lit. The lips of the righteous}</n> nourishes many, but fools die because they lack discerning <n>{The Heb. lacks discerning}</n> hearts. 


text:
When the storm ends, the wicked vanish, <n>{Lit. wicked are no more}</n> but the righteous person is forever firm. 


text:
As vinegar is to the mouth <n>{Lit. teeth}</n> and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy person to those who send him. 


text:
To the upright, the way of the Lord is a place of safety, but it's a place of ruin to those who practice evil. 


text:
<n>{The Value of Righteousness}</n> d The Lord hates false scales, but he delights in accurate weights. 


text:
Wealth won't help in the time of judgment, <n>{Lit. the day of wrath}</n> but righteousness will deliver from death. 


text:
The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the treacherous are trapped by their evil desires. 


text:
When a wicked person dies, his hope vanishes; <n>{So MT; LXX reads When a righteous man dies, his hope does not perish}</n> and what he <n>{So MT; LXX reads what the ungodly}</n> expected from his scheming comes to nothing. 


text:
By what he says, the godless person can destroy his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape. 


text:
Whoever spreads gossip betrays secrets, but the trustworthy person <n>{Lit. trustworthy in spirit}</n> keeps a confidence. 


text:
A nation falls through a lack of guidance, but victory comes through the counsel of many. <n>{Or through much planning}</n> 


text:
A gracious woman attains honor, <n>{So MT; LXX reads honor for her husband}</n> but <n>{So MT; LXX reads but a seat of dishonor is for the woman who hates justice}</n> ruthless men attain <n>{So MT; LXX reads justice. The deficient shrink from wealth, but the diligent support themselves with}</n> wealth. 


text:
Be sure of this: <n>{Lit. Hand to hand}</n> the wicked will not go unpunished, but the descendants of the righteous will go free. 


text:
The fruit of the righteous is <n>{So MT; LXX reads From the fruit of righteousness grows}</n> a tree of life, and the one who wins people is wise. <n>{So MT; LXX reads life, but the souls of those who practice evil are cut off prematurely}</n> 


text:
If the righteous receive what they are due here on earth, how much more will the wicked and the sinner. 


text:
<n>{Wisdom and Wickedness Contrasted}</n> d The person who loves correction loves knowledge, but anyone who hates a rebuke is stupid. 


text:
The good person will gain favor from the Lord , but the man who plots evil will be condemned by him. 


text:
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband, but a wife <n>{Lit. but she}</n> who puts him to shame is like bone cancer. <n>{Lit. decay}</n> 


text:
The words of the wicked lead to <n>{Lit. wicked lie in wait for}</n> bloodshed, but the speech of the upright delivers them. 


text:
A man is praised because of his wise words, but the perverted mind <n>{Lit. heart}</n> will be despised. 


text:
The righteous person looks out for the welfare of his livestock, but even <n>{The Heb. lacks even}</n> the compassion of the wicked is cruel. 


text:
Whoever tills his soil will have a lot to eat, but anyone who pursues fantasies lacks sense. <n>{Lit. heart}</n> 


text:
The wicked desires what evil people gain, but the foundation <n>{Or root}</n> of the righteous is productive. 


text:
The truth teller speaks what is right, but the false witness speaks what is <n>{The Heb. lacks speaks what is}</n> deceitful. 


text:
A truthful saying <n>{Lit. lips}</n> is trusted forever, but the liar <n>{Lit. the lying tongue}</n> only for a moment. 


text:
Deceit is at home <n>{The Heb. lacks at home}</n> in the heart of those who plan evil, but those who promote peace rejoice. 


text:
A prudent man keeps what he knows to himself, <n>{The Heb. lacks to himself}</n> but the hearts of fools shout forth their foolishness. 


text:
The righteous person is cautious with respect to his neighbor, but the lifestyle of the wicked leads them astray. 


text:
The lazy person does not roast what he has hunted, but diligence is one's most important possession. 


text:
<n>{Who is a Wise Son?}</n> d A wise son heeds <n>{The Heb. lacks heeds}</n> a father's correction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke. 


text:
From the fruit of his words a man receives benefit, <n>{Lit. man eats good things}</n> but the treacherous crave violence. 


text:
Anyone who guards his words protects his life; anyone who talks too much <n>{Lit. who opens wide his lips}</n> is ruined. 


text:
Righteousness protects the blameless, but wickedness brings down <n>{So MT DSS 4QProv b ; LXX reads but sins ruin the wicked}</n> the sinner. 


text:
Wealth gained dishonestly dwindles away, but whoever works diligently increases his prosperity. <n>{The Heb. lacks his prosperity}</n> 


text:
Anyone who despises a word of advice will pay for it, but whoever heeds a command will be rewarded. 


text:
Good understanding produces grace, but the lifestyle of the treacherous never changes. <n>{So MT; LXX Syr read grace, and to know the Law is the sign of a sound mind, but the path of scorners ends in destruction}</n> 


text:
Poverty and shame are for those who ignore correction, but whoever listens to instruction gains honor. 


text:
A good person leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, but the wealth of the wicked is reserved for the righteous. 


text:
Whoever does not discipline <n>{Lit. Whoever spares the rod}</n> his son hates him, but whoever loves him is diligent to correct him. 


text:
<n>{How Wise People Live}</n> d Every wise woman builds up her household, but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands. 


text:
What a fool says brings <n>{Lit. The mouth of the fool}</n> a rod to his back, but the words of the wise protect them. 


text:
Where there are no oxen, the feeding trough is clean, but profits come through the strength of the ox. 


text:
A mocker seeks wisdom and finds <n>{The Heb. lacks finds}</n> none, but learning comes easily to someone who understands. 


text:
The faithless one will pay for his behavior, <n>{Lit. ways}</n> but a good man will be rewarded <n>{The Heb. lacks will be rewarded}</n> for his. 


text:
An unthinking person believes everything, but the prudent one thinks before acting. <n>{Lit. one considers his steps}</n> 


text:
Won't those who continually plot evil go astray? But gracious love and truth are for those who plan what is good. 


text:
In hard work there is always profit, but too much chattering <n>{Lit. word of lips}</n> leads to poverty. 


text:
Rock-solid security is found <n>{The Heb. lacks is found}</n> in the fear of the Lord , and within it one's children find refuge. 


text:
Being slow to get angry compares to great understanding as being quick-tempered compares to stupidity. 


text:
The wicked person is thrown down by his own wrongdoing, but the righteous person has a place of safety in death. <n>{So MT DSS 4QProv b ; LXX reads in his own piety}</n> 


text:
Wisdom is at rest in the mind of the discerning even fools know this. <n>{So MT; LXX reads but in the heart of fools it is not discerned}</n> 


text:
Righteousness makes a nation great, but sin diminishes <n>{So DSS 4QPro b LXX; MT reads sin is a disgrace to}</n> any people. 


text:
The wise speak, presenting <n>{Lit. The tongues of the wise present}</n> knowledge appropriately, but fools spout foolishness. 


text:
A gentle statement <n>{Lit. tongue}</n> is a tree of life, but perverted speech shatters the spirit. 


text:
A fool rejects his father's instructions, but anyone who respects <n>{Lit. keeps}</n> reproof acts sensibly. 


text:
The righteous house is itself <n>{The Heb. lacks itself}</n> a great treasure, but within the revenue of the wicked calamity is at work. 


text:
What the wise have to say disseminates <n>{Lit. The lips of the wise spread}</n> knowledge, but it's not in the heart of fools to do so. 


text:
The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the Lord , but the prayer of the upright is his delight. 


text:
The lifestyle of the wicked is detestable to the Lord , but he loves those who ardently pursue righteousness. 


text:
Since Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> and Abaddon <n>{I.e. the realm of destruction in the afterlife}</n> lie open in the Lord's presence, how much more the hearts of human beings! 


text:
The arrogant mocker never loves the one who corrects him; he will not inquire of <n>{Lit. not go to}</n> the wise. 


text:
The entire life <n>{Lit. All the days}</n> of the afflicted seems disastrous, but a good heart feasts continually. 


text:
<n>{On Contentment and Other Good Things of Life}</n> d Better is a little accompanied by fear of the Lord than abundant wealth with turmoil. 


text:
A vegetarian meal <n>{Lit. A meal of herbs}</n> served with love is better than a big, thick steak <n>{Lit. a fattened ox}</n> with a plateful of <n>{The Heb. lacks a plateful of}</n> animosity. 


text:
The lifestyle of the lazy is like a thorny hedge, but the path taken by the upright is an open highway. 


text:
The way of life leads upward for the wise so he may avoid Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> below. 


text:
Those who are greedy for unjust gain bring trouble into their homes, but the person who hates bribes will live. 


text:
Bright eyes <n>{Or A cheerful look}</n> encourage the heart; good news nourishes the body. <n>{Lit. bones}</n> 


text:
Whoever ignores instruction hates himself, but anyone who heeds reproof gains understanding. <n>{Lit. heart}</n> 


text:
<n>{Wisdom's Blessings}</n> d People do the planning, <n>{Lit. Preparations of the heart belong to human beings}</n> but the end result <n>{Or the response of the tongue}</n> is from the Lord . 


text:
The Lord made everything answerable to him, including the wicked at the time of trouble. <n>{Lit. evil}</n> 


text:
Iniquity is atoned for by gracious love and truth, and through fear of the Lord people <n>{The Heb. lacks people}</n> turn from evil. 


text:
A little gain <n>{The Heb. lacks gain}</n> with righteousness is better than great income without justice. 


text:
When a king is ready to speak officially, <n>{Lit. king speaks an oracle}</n> what he says should not err with respect to justice. 


text:
When a king is pleased, <n>{Lit. a king's face lightens}</n> there is life, and his favor is like a cloud that brings spring rain. 


text:
How much better than gaining gold is the acquisition of wisdom, the attainment of wisdom better than silver! 


text:
The road of the upright circumvents evil, and whoever watches how he lives <n>{Lit. watches his path}</n> preserves his life. 


text:
A wise person's thoughts <n>{Lit. heart}</n> control his words, and his speech promotes instruction. 


text:
Pleasant words are honey from a honeycomb sweet to the soul and healing for the body. <n>{Lit. bone}</n> 


text:
<n>{Advice to the Wise}</n> d There is a road that seems right for a man to travel, <n>{The Heb. lacks to travel}</n> but in the end it's the road to death. 


text:
A worthless person concocts evil gossip <n>{The Heb. lacks gossip}</n> his lips are like a burning fire. 


text:
Whoever winks knowingly <n>{Lit. with his eyes}</n> is plotting <n>{So MT; LXX Syr Targ Vg read winks with his eyes considers}</n> deceit; anyone who purses his lips is bent towards evil. 


text:
Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is obtained by following <n>{The Heb. lacks following}</n> a righteous path. 


text:
Whoever controls his temper is better than a warrior, and anyone who has control of his spirit is better than someone who captures a city. 


text:
<n>{More Words of Wisdom}</n> d Dry crumbs in peace <n>{Lit. quiet}</n> are better than a full meal <n>{Lit. house full of meat}</n> with strife. 


text:
A prudent servant will rule in place of a disgraceful son and will share in the inheritance among brothers. 


text:
Whoever mocks the poor shows contempt for their maker, and whoever is happy about disaster will not go unpunished. 


text:
Appropriate speech is inconsistent with the fool; how much more are deceitful statements <n>{Lit. lips}</n> with a prince! 


text:
A bribe works wonders <n>{Lit. A gift is a stone of favor}</n> in the eyes of its giver; wherever he turns he prospers. 


text:
Anyone who overlooks <n>{Lit. covers}</n> an offense promotes love, but someone who gossips separates close friends. 


text:
The person who repays good with evil will never see <n>{The Heb. lacks will see}</n> evil leave his home. 


text:
What is this? A fool has enough money to buy wisdom, but is senseless? <n>{Lit. but has no heart}</n> 


text:
A man who lacks sense <n>{Lit. heart}</n> cosigns a loan, <n>{Lit. sense strikes the palm}</n> becoming a guarantor for his neighbor. 


text:
The person who loves transgression loves strife; the person who builds a high gate invites destruction. 


text:
The person whose mind <n>{Lit. heart}</n> is perverse does not find good, and anyone with perverted speech falls into trouble. 


text:
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit drains one's strength. <n>{Lit. spirit dries the bones}</n> 


text:
A person with understanding has wisdom as his objective, but a fool looks only <n>{The Heb. lacks only}</n> to earthly goals. 


text:
A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to his mother. <n>{Lit. to the one who bore him}</n> 


text:
Furthermore, it isn't good to fine the righteous, or to beat an official because of his uprightness. 


text:
Whoever controls what he says is knowledgeable; anyone who has a calm spirit is a man of understanding. 


text:
Even a fool is thought to be wise when he remains silent; he is thought to be prudent when he keeps his mouth shut. 


text:
<n>{How Fools Talk}</n> d Whoever isolates himself pursues selfish ends; he resists all sound advice. 


text:
<n>{Avoiding Fools and Their Foolishness}</n> d Whoever is lazy regarding his work is also a brother to the master of destruction. 


text:
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; a righteous person rushes to it and is lifted up above the danger. <n>{The Heb. lacks above the danger}</n> 


text:
The mind <n>{Lit. heart}</n> of a discerning person gains knowledge, while the ears of wise people seek out knowledge. 


text:
The first to put forth his case seems right, until someone else steps forward and cross-examines him. 


text:
An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and his disputes are like the bars of a fortress. 


text:
The positive words that a man speaks <n>{Lit. words from a man's mouth}</n> fill his stomach; he will be satisfied with what his lips produce. 


text:
The power of the tongue is life and death those who love to talk <n>{Lit. love it}</n> will eat what it produces. 


text:
<n>{The Priorities of Life Contrasted}</n> d A poor man who walks blamelessly is better than a fool who speaks perversely. 


text:
Furthermore, it isn't good to be ignorant, <n>{Lit. good for an ignorant soul}</n> and whoever rushes into things <n>{Lit. whoever hurries with his feet}</n> misses the mark. 


text:
All the relatives of a poor person shun him how much more do his friends avoid him! Though he runs after them pleading, they aren't around. 


text:
A father's ruin is a foolish son, and a wife's quarreling is like <n>{The Heb. lacks like}</n> dripping water that never stops. 


text:
A house and self-sufficiency are a father's inheritance, but from the Lord comes an insightful wife. 


text:
Whoever obeys a commandment keeps himself safe, <n>{Lit. keeps his soul}</n> but someone who is contemptuous in conduct <n>{Lit. in his way}</n> will die. 


text:
Whoever is kind to the poor is lending to the Lord the benefit of his gift will return to him in abundance. 


text:
The person who has great anger must pay the consequences, because if you rescue him, you will have to do it again. 


text:
Listen to advice and accept discipline, and you'll be wise for the rest of your life. <n>{The Heb. lacks of your life}</n> 


text:
Many plans occupy the mind <n>{Lit. heart}</n> of a man, but the Lord's purposes will prevail. <n>{Or will be established}</n> 


text:
The fear of the Lord leads <n>{The Heb. lacks leads}</n> to life; whoever is satisfied with it will rest, untouched by evil. 


text:
If you scourge a scoffer, the simple person may learn to be discreet; rebuke a discerning man and he will gain understanding. 


text:
Whoever mistreats his father and alienates his mother is a son who brings both shame and disrespect. 


text:
A corrupt witness <n>{I.e. a worthless person}</n> mocks justice, and the wicked person feeds on iniquity. 


text:
<n>{Advice on How to Live}</n> d Wine causes mocking, and beer causes fights; everyone led astray by them lacks wisdom. 


text:
A lazy person doesn't plow in the proper <n>{The Heb. lacks proper}</n> season; he looks for a harvest, but there is nothing. 


text:
Many claim "I'm a loyal person!" <n>{Lit. claim to be people of gracious love}</n> but who can find someone who truly is? 


text:
"This is bad, bad," says whoever is buying but then he brags as he walks away after the sale. <n>{The Heb. lacks after the sale}</n> 


text:
Take the garment of anyone who puts up collateral for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for an unfamiliar woman. 


text:
It is a trap for a person to declare quickly, "This is sacred," and only later to have second thoughts about the vows. 


text:
Blows that wound clean away evil; such beatings cleanse <n>{The Heb. lacks cleanse}</n> the innermost being. 


text:
<n>{Thoughts on the Sovereignty of God}</n> d A king's heart is a water stream that the Lord controls; he directs it wherever he pleases. 


text:
A proud attitude, <n>{Lit. heart}</n> accompanied by <n>{Lit. proud heart and}</n> a haughty look, is sin; they reveal <n>{Lit. sin; the lamp of}</n> wicked people. 


text:
Plans of the persistent surely lead to productivity, but all who are hasty will surely become poor. 


text:
A fortune gained by deceit <n>{Lit. by a lying tongue}</n> is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare. <n>{So MT; LXX reads is pursuing worthlessness into deadly snares}</n> 


text:
The conduct <n>{Lit. way}</n> of a guilty man is perverse, but the behavior of the pure is upright. 


text:
When a mocker is punished, the fool gains wisdom; but when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge. 


text:
The righteous God <n>{The Heb. lacks God}</n> considers the house of the wicked, bringing the wicked to ruin. 


text:
Privately given gifts pacify wrath, and payments made secretly <n>{Lit. made under the cloak}</n> appease <n>{The Heb. lacks appease}</n> great anger. 


text:
Whoever wanders from the path of understanding will end up where the dead <n>{Lit. the departed spirits}</n> are gathered. 


text:
Precious treasures and oil are found <n>{So MT; LXX reads A desirable treasure will rest}</n> where the wise live, but a foolish man devours them. 


text:
A false witness will perish, but whoever listens will testify successfully. <n>{Lit. testify forever}</n> 


text:
The wicked man puts up a bold appearance, but the upright thinks about what he is doing. <n>{Lit. about his ways}</n> 


text:
<n>{Advice for Everyday Life}</n> d A good reputation is more desirable than great wealth, and favorable acceptance more than silver and gold. 


text:
The prudent person sees trouble ahead and hides, but the naive continue on and suffer the consequences. 


text:
Thorns and snares lie in the path of the perverse person, but whoever is cautious stays far away from them. 


text:
Whoever sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the anger he uses for a weapon <n>{Lit. rod}</n> will be destroyed. 


text:
Whoever is generous <n>{Lit. A good eye}</n> will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor. 


text:
Throw out the mocker and strife departs, too; <n>{The Heb. lacks too}</n> furthermore, quarrels <n>{Or litigation}</n> and discord will end. 


text:
Whoever loves purity <n>{Lit. purity of heart}</n> and gracious speech will gain the king as his friend. 


text:
The Lord watches over anyone with knowledge, but he ruins the plans <n>{Lit. words}</n> of the unfaithful. 


text:
The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit; a man experiencing the Lord's wrath will fall into it. 


text:
A child's heart has a tendency to do wrong, but the rod of discipline removes it far away from him. 


text:
Whoever oppresses the poor to enrich himself and whoever gives gifts to the wealthy will yield only loss. 


text:
<n>{Sayings of the Wise}</n> d Pay attention and listen to the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my teaching, 


text:
Don't rob the poor person because he is poor, and don't crush the helpless in court, <n>{Lit. gate}</n> 


text:
Don't make friends with a hot-tempered man, and do not associate with someone who is easily angered, 


text:
<n>{Things to Avoid in Life}</n> d Whenever you sit down to dine with a ruler, carefully think about what is before you. 


text:
When you fix your gaze on it, it's gone, for it sprouts wings for itself and flies to the sky like an eagle. 


text:
Don't consume food provided by a miserly <n>{Lit. by the evil eyed}</n> person, and don't desire his delicacies, 


text:
for as he thinks within himself, so he is. "Eat and drink!" he'll say to you, but his heart won't be with you. 


text:
Punish him with a rod, and you will rescue his soul from Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead.}</n> 


text:
<n>{On Listening to Your Parents}</n> d My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart will greatly rejoice. 


text:
Never let yourself envy sinners; instead, remain <n>{The Heb. lacks remain}</n> in fear of the Lord every day, 


text:
Purchase truth, but don't sell it; store up <n>{The Heb. lacks store up}</n> wisdom, instruction, and understanding. 


text:
The father of a righteous person will greatly rejoice; whoever fathers a wise son will be glad because of him. 


text:
<n>{On Sobriety}</n> d Who has woe? Who has grief? Who has contention? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has bloodshot eyes? 


text:
"They struck me," you will say, <n>{The Heb. lacks you will say}</n> "but I never felt it. They beat me, but I never knew it When will I wake up? I want another drink." 


text:
because they <n>{Lit. because their hearts}</n> plan violence, and they are always talking <n>{Lit. and their lips talk}</n> about trouble. 


text:
A wise man is strong, <n>{So MT; LXX reads Being wise is better than being strong}</n> and a knowledgeable man grows in strength. 


text:
If you say, "Look here, we didn't know about this," doesn't God, <n>{Lit. he}</n> who examines motives, <n>{Lit. examines the heart}</n> discern it? Doesn't the one who guards your soul know about it? Won't he repay each person according to what he has done? 


text:
My son, eat honey, because it's good for you; <n>{The Heb. lacks for you}</n> indeed, drippings from the honeycomb are sweet to your taste; 


text:
Keep in mind that wisdom is like that for your soul; if you find it, there will be a future for you, and what you hope for won't be cut short. 


text:
for though a righteous man falls seven times, he will rise again, but the wicked stumble into calamity. 


text:
<n>{Sayings of the Wise}</n> d Here are some more proverbs from wise people: It isn't good to show partiality in judgment. 


text:
But as for people who rebuke the wicked; <n>{The Heb. lacks the wicked}</n> a good blessing will fall upon them. 


text:
A kiss on the lips that's what someone who gives an honest answer deserves. <n>{The Heb. lacks deserves}</n> 


text:
Don't testify against your neighbor without a cause, and don't lie when you speak. <n>{Lit. don't deceive with your lips}</n> 


text:
<n>{More Proverbs from Solomon}</n> d Here are some more proverbs by Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, transcribed. 


text:
Purge the dross from the silver, and material for <n>{The Heb. lacks material for}</n> a vessel comes forth for the silversmith. 


text:
Don't magnify yourself in the presence of a king, and don't pretend to be in the company of famous men, 


text:
for it is better that it be told you, "Come up here," than for you to be placed lower in the presence of an official. What you've seen with your own eyes, 


text:
don't be in a hurry to argue in court. Otherwise, what will you do later on when your neighbor humiliates you? 


text:
Like cold snow during harvest time is a faithful messenger to those who send him; he refreshes his masters. 


text:
A bad tooth and an unsteady foot that's what confidence in an unreliable man is like in a time of trouble. 


text:
Taking your coat off when it's cold or pouring vinegar on soda that's what singing songs does to a heavy heart. 


text:
For you'll be piling burning coals of shame <n>{The Heb. lacks of shame}</n> on his head and the Lord will reward you. 


text:
Cold water to someone who is thirsty <n>{Or tired}</n> that's what good news from a distant land is. 


text:
A muddied spring or a polluted well that's what a righteous person is who compromises with the wicked. 


text:
<n>{On Fools}</n> d Like snowfall in summer or rain at harvest time, so honor is inappropriate for a fool. 


text:
Whoever sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off his own <n>{The Heb. lacks his own}</n> feet and drinks violence. 


text:
<n>{On Laziness}</n> d The lazy person claims, "There is a lion in the road! There's a lion in the streets!" 


text:
Picking up a dog by the ears that's what someone is like who <n>{Lit. who, as he is passing by,}</n> meddles in another's fight. 


text:
<n>{On Gossip and Backbiting}</n> d Without wood, the fire goes out. Without a gossip, contention stops. 


text:
A clay vessel plated with a thin veneer of silver that's what smooth <n>{So LXX; MT reads burning}</n> lips with a wicked heart are. 


text:
Though he speaks graciously, don't believe him, for there are seven detestable things in his heart. 


text:
<n>{General Counsel}</n> d Never brag about the day to come, because you don't know what it <n>{Lit. what a day}</n> might bring. 


text:
Wounds from someone who loves are trustworthy, but kisses from an enemy speak volumes. <n>{Lit. enemy are profuse}</n> 


text:
The person <n>{Lit. soul}</n> who is full spurns honey, but to a hungry person even the bitter seems sweet. 


text:
Ointments and perfume encourage the heart; in a similar way, a friend's advice is sweet to the soul. <n>{So MT; LXX reads heart; but through misfortune the soul is torn apart}</n> 


text:
Never abandon your friend nor your father's friend, and don't go to your brother's house in times of trouble. A neighbor who is near is better than a brother who lives far away. 


text:
Those who are prudent see danger and take refuge, but the nave continue on and suffer the consequences. 


text:
Take the coat of anyone who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he cosigns for an immoral woman. 


text:
Whoever nurtures the fig tree will eat its fruit, and whoever obeys <n>{Lit. guards}</n> his master will be honored. 


text:
Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> and Abaddon <n>{I.e. the realm of destruction in the afterlife}</n> are never satiated, and neither are human eyes. 


text:
As the crucible tests <n>{The Heb. lacks tests}</n> silver, and the furnace assays <n>{The Heb. lacks assays}</n> gold; so praise received tests <n>{The Heb. lacks tests}</n> a man. 


text:
Though you crush a fool in a mortar and pestle as someone might crush grain, his stupidity still won't leave him. 


text:
You will have enough goat's milk to drink and to supply your household needs, as well as sustenance for your servant girls. 


text:
<n>{Contrasting Good and Evil}</n> d The wicked flee, though no one pursues, but the righteous are bold like a lion. 


text:
When a land transgresses, it gains a succession of leaders, but with an understanding and knowledgeable man, its stability endures. 


text:
A poor man who oppresses the weak is like a rainstorm that destroys all <n>{Lit. that leaves no}</n> the crops. 


text:
Those who forsake the Law praise the wicked, but whoever keeps it <n>{Lit. keeps the Law}</n> fights them. 


text:
Whoever keeps the Law is a discerning son, but whoever keeps company with gluttons brings shame to his father. 


text:
Whoever gains wealth by charging exorbitant <n>{Lit. charging interest upon}</n> interest collects it for someone who is kind to the poor. 


text:
Whoever misleads the upright along an evil way will himself fall into his own pit, but the blameless will inherit what is good. 


text:
When the righteous are victorious, there is great glory, but when the wicked arise, men hide themselves. 


text:
Whoever hides his transgressions will not succeed, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will find mercy. 


text:
Blessed is the man who always fears the Lord, <n>{The Heb. lacks the Lord}</n> but whoever hardens his heart will fall into disaster. 


text:
A Commander-in-Chief <n>{Lit. Nagid ; i.e. a senior officer entrusted with dual roles of operational oversight and administrative authority}</n> who is a cruel oppressor lacks understanding, but whoever hates unjust gain will live longer. <n>{Lit. will lengthen his days}</n> 


text:
Whoever works his farmland will have abundant food, but whoever chases fantasies will become very poor. 


text:
The faithful man will prosper with blessings, but whoever is in a hurry to get rich will not escape punishment. 


text:
The miser <n>{Lit. The man with an evil eye}</n> is in a hurry to get wealthy, but he isn't aware that poverty will catch up with him. 


text:
Whoever rebukes a man will later on find more favor than someone who flatters with his words. <n>{Lit. tongue}</n> 


text:
Whoever steals from his father or mother but claims, "It's no sin," is a companion to someone who demolishes. 


text:
An arrogant <n>{Or greedy}</n> man stirs up dissension, but anyone who trusts in the Lord prospers. 


text:
Whoever gives to the poor will never lack, but whoever shuts his eyes to their poverty <n>{The Heb. lacks to their poverty}</n> will be cursed. 


text:
When the wicked rise to power, people hide themselves, but when the wicked <n>{Lit. when they}</n> perish, the righteous increase. 


text:
<n>{Advice on Life and Justice}</n> d After many rebukes, the stiff-necked man will be broken incurably, without any warning. 


text:
As the righteous grow powerful, <n>{The Heb. lacks powerful}</n> people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, people groan. 


text:
The man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but anyone who consorts with immoral women squanders his wealth. 


text:
A strong man who flatters his neighbor is setting a trap where he walks. <n>{Lit. trap for his footsteps}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Wicked and Righteous Contrasted}</n> d An evil man is trapped by transgression, but the righteous person sings and rejoices. 


text:
The righteous person is concerned about the poor; but the wicked don't understand what they need to know. <n>{Lit. understand knowledge}</n> 


text:
The fool vents all his feelings, <n>{Lit. spirit}</n> but the wise person keeps them to himself. <n>{The Heb. lacks to himself}</n> 


text:
The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: <n>{Lit. oppressor meet together}</n> the Lord gave them both eyes with which to see. <n>{Lit. Lord lights the eyes of both}</n> 


text:
The rod and rebuke bestow wisdom, but an undisciplined child <n>{Lit. but a child left alone}</n> brings shame to his mother. 


text:
As the wicked grow powerful, <n>{The Heb. lacks powerful}</n> transgression increases, but the righteous will observe their downfall. 


text:
<n>{Dangerous Behaviors}</n> d By mere words a servant will not be corrected; even though he understands, there will be no response. 


text:
A thief's accomplice hates himself; though testifying under oath, <n>{Lit. though he hears the oath}</n> he reveals nothing. 


text:
The unjust man is detestable to the righteous, and whoever lives blamelessly is detestable to the wicked. 


text:
<n>{The Oracle}</n> d A discourse by the faithful collector. <n>{Or by Jakeh's son Agur}</n> This is what this valiant man declared to the God with me, to the God with me, who then prevailed: <n>{Or declared to Ithiel, to Ithiel, and Ucal}</n> 


text:
Surely I am beyond the senselessness of any man; I do not perceive things <n>{The Heb. lacks things}</n> the way human beings do. 


text:
Who has ascended to heaven, and then descended? Who has collected the wind in his hands? Who has wrapped up waters in a garment? Who has established all the farthest points of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 


text:
<n>{On Contentment in Life}</n> d God, <n>{The Heb. lacks God}</n> I have asked you for two things don't refuse me before I die 


text:
Keep deception and lies far away from me, and give me neither poverty nor wealth. Feed me with food that I need for today, <n>{Or that is appropriate for me}</n> 


text:
so that I don't become overfed and deny you by saying, "Who is the Lord ?" or so that I don't become poor and steal, and then misuse the name of my God. 


text:
<n>{On Different Kinds of People}</n> d Don't lie about a servant to his master, or that servant <n>{Lit. or he}</n> will curse you and you will pay for it. 


text:
Some people <n>{Lit. A generation}</n> view themselves as pure, but haven't been cleansed from their own filth. 


text:
Some people <n>{Lit. A generation}</n> what an arrogant look they have! raise their eyebrows haughtily. 


text:
Some people <n>{Lit. A generation}</n> have swords for teeth and knives for fangs to devour the afflicted from the earth and the needy from among mankind. 


text:
The leech has two daughters: "Give" and "Give" . Three things will never be satisfied; four will never say "Enough" 


text:
The afterlife, <n>{Lit. Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> the barren womb, earth that still demands water, and fire they never say, "Enough" . 


text:
The eye that mocks a father and looks with a disobedient attitude at <n>{Lit. and despises obedience to}</n> a mother the valley ravens will pluck it out; and vultures will eat it. 


text:
The way an eagle flies in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman. 


text:
This is what an immoral woman is like: she eats, wipes her mouth, then says "I've done nothing wrong." 


text:
The rock badgers aren't a strong species <n>{Lit. people}</n> either, yet they build their dens in the rocks. 


text:
Just as whipping milk produces butter, and twisting the nose causes bleeding, so also stirring up anger produces contention. 


text:
<n>{Counsel from King Lemuel's Mother}</n> d The words of King Lemuel a pronouncement with which his mother encouraged him. 


text:
No, <n>{Or What}</n> my son! No, <n>{Or What}</n> my son whom I conceived! <n>{Lit. son of my womb?}</n> No, <n>{Or What}</n> my son to whom I gave birth! <n>{Lit. son of my vows}</n> 


text:
Never devote all your energy to sex, <n>{Lit. women}</n> or dedicate your life <n>{Lit. ways}</n> to destroying kings. 


text:
Otherwise, they may drink and forget what has been ordained, perverting justice for all the oppressed. 


text:
Give liquor to someone who is perishing, and wine to someone who is deeply depressed. <n>{Lit. one whose soul is bitter}</n> 


text:
Speak for those who cannot speak; seek justice for all those on the verge of destruction. <n>{Lit. all sons of destruction}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Honorable Woman}</n> d Who can find a capable wife? Her value far exceeds the finest jewels. 


text:
She rises while it is still night, preparing meals for her family and providing for her women servants. 


text:
She is unafraid of winter's effect on <n>{Lit. of the snow for}</n> her household, because all of them are warmly clothed. <n>{Lit. are clothed in red}</n> 


text:
Her husband is well known; <n>{Lit. is known in the gates}</n> he sits among the leaders of the land. 


text:
She looks discretely to the affairs of her household, and she is never lazy. <n>{Lit. she does not eat the food of laziness}</n> 


text:
"Many women have done wonderful things," he says, <n>{The Heb. lacks he says}</n> "but you surpass all of them!" 


text:
Reward her for her work let her actions result in public praise. <n>{Lit. in praise in the gates}</n> 


text:
<n>{ The Book of}</n> <n>{ Ecclesiastes}</n> d <n>{The Theme}</n> d The words of the Teacher, <n>{Or Speaker , Or Philosopher , and so throughout the book}</n> the son of David, king in Jerusalem. 


text:
"Utterly pointless," <n>{Or Utter vanity ; and so throughout the book}</n> says the Teacher. "Absolutely pointless; everything is pointless." 


text:
What does a man gain from all of the work that he undertakes on earth? <n>{Lit. under the sun ; i.e. from an earthly perspective; and so throughout the book}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Predictability of Life}</n> d A generation goes, a generation comes, but the earth remains forever. 


text:
The wind blows continually southward, then northward, constantly circulating and the wind comes back again in its courses. 


text:
All the rivers flow toward the sea, but the sea is never full; then rivers return to the headwaters <n>{Lit. place}</n> where they began. 


text:
Everything is wearisome, more than man is able to express. The eye is never satisfied by seeing, nor the ear by hearing. 


text:
Whatever has happened, will happen again; whatever has been done, will be done again. There is nothing new on earth. 


text:
Does anything exist about which someone might say, "Look at this! Is this new?" It happened ages ago; it existed before we did. 


text:
<n>{A Testimony to an Unwise Search}</n> d I, the Teacher, have been king over Israel in Jerusalem. 


text:
I dedicated myself to using wisdom for study and discovery of everything that is done under heaven. <n>{I.e. from a heavenly perspective}</n> God uses terrible things so human beings will struggle with life. <n>{The Heb. lacks with life}</n> 


text:
I observed every activity done on earth. My conclusion: all of it is pointless like chasing after the wind. 


text:
I told myself, "I have become greater and wiser than anyone who ruled before me in Jerusalem yes, I have acquired a great deal of wisdom and knowledge." 


text:
So I dedicated myself to learn about wisdom and knowledge, and about insanity and foolishness. And I discovered that this is also like chasing after the wind. 


text:
For with much wisdom there is much sorrow; the more someone adds to knowledge, the more someone adds to grief. 


text:
<n>{A Testimony to Self-Indulgence}</n> d I told myself, "I will test you with pleasure, so enjoy yourself." But this was pointless. 


text:
I decided to indulge in wine, while still remaining committed to wisdom. I also tried to indulge in foolishness, just enough to determine whether it was good for human beings under heaven given the short time of their lives. 


text:
<n>{A Testimony to Extravagant Works}</n> d With respect to my extravagant works, I built houses for myself; I planted vineyards for myself. 


text:
<n>{A Testimony to Extravagant Possessions}</n> d I acquired male and female slaves, and had other slaves born in my house. I also acquired for myself increasing numbers of herds and flocks more than anyone who had lived before me in Jerusalem. 


text:
I also accumulated silver, gold, and the wealth of kings and their kingdoms. I gathered around me both male and female singers, along with what delights a man all sorts of mistresses. 


text:
<n>{A Testimony to Extravagant Position}</n> d So I became great, greater than anyone who had lived before me in Jerusalem. Throughout all of this, I remained wise. 


text:
Whenever I wanted something I had seen, I never refused that desire. Instead, I enjoyed everything I did, and this became the reward in what I had undertaken. 


text:
Then I examined all of my accomplishments that I had brought about by my own efforts, including the work that I had labored so hard to complete and it was all pointless, like chasing after the wind, and there was nothing to be gained on earth. 


text:
Next I turned to examine wisdom, insanity, and foolishness, because what can a person do who succeeds the king except what has already been accomplished? 


text:
I concluded that wisdom is more useful than foolishness, just as light is more useful than darkness. 


text:
The wise use their eyes, but the fool walks in darkness. I also perceived that the same outcome affects them all. 


text:
<n>{The Pointlessness of Life}</n> d Then I told myself, "Whatever happens to the fool will happen also to me. Therefore what's the point in being so wise?" And I told myself that this also is pointless. 


text:
For neither the wise nor the fool will be long remembered, since in days to come everything will be forgotten. The wise man dies the same way as the fool, does he not? 


text:
So I hated life, because whatever is done on earth causes me trouble it's all pointless, like chasing after the wind. 


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<n>{The Pointlessness of Labor}</n> d Then I despised everything I had worked for on earth, that is, the things that I will leave to the person who will succeed me. 


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And who knows whether he will be wise or foolish? Either way, he will take possession of everything that I have done on earth, especially where I have excelled. This also is pointless. 


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For sometimes people who strive to obtain wisdom, knowledge, and equity leave everything as an inheritance to a person who never worked for it. This, too, is pointless and greatly troublesome. 


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For what does a person gain from everything that he accomplishes and from his inner life struggles that he undergoes while working on earth? 


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Indeed, all of his days are filled with sorrow, and his struggles bring grief. In fact, his mind remains restless throughout the night. This is pointless, too! 


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<n>{The Central Point of Life}</n> d The only worthwhile thing for a human being is to eat, drink, and enjoy life's goodness that he finds in what he accomplishes. This, I observed, is also from the hand of God himself, 


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After all, to the person who is good in God's sight, he gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy, but to the sinner he gives the troublesome task of acquiring and accumulating in order to leave it to someone who is good in the sight of God. This also is pointless and chasing after the wind. 


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<n>{The Purposes in God's Timing}</n> d There is a season for everything, and a time for every event under heaven: <n>{I.e. from a heavenly perspective}</n> 


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a time to scatter stones, and a time to gather stones; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 


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a time to search, and a time to give up searching; <n>{The Heb. lacks searching}</n> a time to keep, and a time to discard; 


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He made everything appropriate in its time. He also placed eternity within them yet, no person can fully comprehend what God is doing from beginning to end. 


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I have concluded that the only worthwhile thing for them is to take pleasure in doing good in life; 


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moreover, every person should eat, drink, and enjoy the benefits of everything that he undertakes, since it is a gift from God. 


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I have concluded that everything that God undertakes will last for eternity nothing can be added to it nor taken away from it and that God acts this way so that people will fear him. 


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That which was, now is; and that which will be, already is; and God examines what has already taken place. 


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<n>{From Dust to Dust}</n> d I also examined on earth: where the halls of justice were supposed to be, there was lawlessness; and where the righteous were supposed to be, <n>{Lit. and the place of judgment}</n> there was lawlessness. 


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I told myself, "God will judge both the righteous and the wicked, because there is a time set to judge <n>{The Heb. lacks to judge}</n> every event and every work." 


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"As for human beings," I told myself, "God puts them to the test, that they might see themselves as mere animals." 


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For what happens to people also happens to animals a single event happens to them: just as someone dies, so does the other. In fact, they all breathe the same way, so that a human being has no superiority over an animal. All of this is pointless. 


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Who knows whether <n>{So LXX. The Heb. lacks whether}</n> the spirit of human beings ascends, and whether <n>{So LXX. The Heb. lacks whether}</n> the spirit of animals descends to the earth? 


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I concluded that it is worthwhile for people to find joy in their accomplishments, because that is their inheritance, since who can see what will exist after them? 


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<n>{On the Abuse of Authority}</n> d Next I turned to consider all kinds of oppression that exists on earth. Look at the tears of the oppressed there is no one to comfort them. Power is on the side of their oppressors; so they have no comforters. 


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Better than both of them is someone who has not yet been born, <n>{The Heb. lacks born}</n> because he hasn't experienced evil on earth. 


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Then I examined all sorts of work, including all kinds of excellent achievements that create envy in others. <n>{Lit. envy of a man by his neighbor}</n> This also is pointless and chasing after the wind. 


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The fool crosses his arms <n>{Lit. folds his hands}</n> and starves himself. <n>{Lit. eats his own flesh}</n> 


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It's better to have one handful of tranquility than to have two handfuls of trouble and to chase after the wind. 


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<n>{On Aloneness and Companionship}</n> d Then I turned to re-examine something else that is pointless on earth: 


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Consider someone who is alone, having neither son nor brother. There is no end to all of his work, and he is <n>{Lit. and his eyes are}</n> never satisfied with wealth. "So for whom do I work," he asks, <n>{The Heb. lacks he asks}</n> "and deprive myself of pleasure?" This, too, is pointless and a terrible tragedy. 


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If they stumble, the first will lift up his friend but woe to anyone who is alone when he falls and there is no one to help him get up. 


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If someone attacks one of them, the two of them together will resist. Furthermore, the tri-braided cord is not soon broken. 


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<n>{There's No Fool Like an Old Fool}</n> d A poor but wise youth is better than an old but foolish king who will no longer accept correction. 


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The former can come out of prison to reign, while the latter, even if born to <n>{Lit. to his}</n> kingship, may become poor. 


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I observed everyone who lives and walks on earth, along with the youth <n>{Lit. second child}</n> who will take the king's <n>{Lit. take his}</n> place. 


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There was no end to all of his subjects <n>{Lit. of the people}</n> or to all of the people who had come before them. But those who come along afterward will not be happy with him. This is also pointless and a chasing after wind. 


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<n>{Advice in Worship}</n> d <n>{This v. is 4:17 in MT}</n> Watch your step whenever you visit God's house, and come more ready to listen than to offer a fool's sacrifice, since fools <n>{Lit. they}</n> never think they're doing evil. 


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<n>{This v. is 5:1 in MT, and so throughout the chapter.}</n> Don't be impulsive with your mouth nor be in a hurry to talk in God's presence. Since God is in heaven and you're on earth, keep your speech short. 


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<n>{Keep Your Promises to God}</n> d When you make a promise to God, don't fail to keep it, since he isn't pleased with fools. Keep what you promise 


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it's better that you don't promise than that you do promise and not follow through. <n>{Or not pay}</n> 


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Never let your mouth cause you <n>{Lit. cause your body}</n> to sin and don't proclaim in the presence of the angel, <n>{LXX reads of God}</n> "My promise <n>{Lit. It}</n> was a mistake," for why should God be angry at your excuse <n>{Lit. voice}</n> and destroy what you've undertaken? 


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<n>{The Use and Abuse of Wealth}</n> d Don't be surprised when you see the poor oppressed and the violent perverting both justice and verdicts <n>{Or judgment}</n> in a province, for one high official watches another, and there are ones higher still over them. 


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Also, the increase of the land belongs to everyone; the king himself is served by his <n>{The Heb. lacks his}</n> field. 


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Whoever loves money will never have enough money. Whoever loves luxury will not be content with abundance. This also is pointless. 


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When possessions increase, so does the number of consumers; therefore what good are they to their owners, except to look at them? 


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Sweet is the sleep of a working man, whether he eats a little or a lot, but the excess wealth of the rich will not allow him to rest. 


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and that wealth is lost in troubled circumstances. Then a son is born, but there is nothing left for him. <n>{Lit. nothing in his hand}</n> 


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Just as he came naked from his mother's womb, he will leave <n>{Lit. return}</n> as naked as he came; he will receive no profit from his efforts he cannot carry away even a handful. 


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This is also a painful tragedy: However a person comes, he also departs; so what does he gain as he labors after the wind? 


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Furthermore, all his days he lives <n>{Lit. eats}</n> in darkness with great sorrow, anger, and affliction. 


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<n>{The Use and Abuse of Accomplishment}</n> d Look! I observed that it is good and prudent to eat, drink, and enjoy all that is good of a person's <n>{Lit. of his}</n> work that he does on earth during the limited days of his life, which God gives him, for this is his allotment. 


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Furthermore, for every person to whom God has given wealth, riches, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept this allotment, and to rejoice in his work this is a gift from God. 


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For he will not brood much over the days of his life, since God will keep him occupied with the joys of his heart. 


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<n>{Enjoyment of Life as a Gift from God}</n> d There exists another misfortune that I have observed on earth, and it is a heavy burden upon human beings: 


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a man to whom God gives wealth, riches, and honor, so that he lacks none of his heart's desires but God does not give him the capability to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger consumes them. This is pointless and a grievous affliction. 


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A man might father a hundred children, <n>{The Heb. lacks children}</n> and live for many years, so that the length of his life <n>{Lit. years}</n> is long but if his life does not overflow with goodness, and he doesn't receive a proper <n>{The Heb. lacks proper}</n> burial, I maintain that stillborn children <n>{Lit. child ; and so through vs. 5}</n> are better off than he is, 


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because stillborn children <n>{Lit. because he}</n> arrive in pointlessness, leave in darkness, and their names are covered in darkness. 


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Furthermore, though they never saw the sun nor learned anything, <n>{The Heb. lacks anything}</n> they are more content than the other. 


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Even if he lives a thousand years twice over without experiencing the best aren't all of them going to the same place? 


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Every person works for his own self-interests, <n>{Lit. for his mouth}</n> but his desires remain unsatisfied. 


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For what advantage has the wise person over the fool? What advantage does the poor man have in knowing how to face life? <n>{Lit. knows to walk before the living}</n> 


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It is better to focus on what you can see than to meander after your self-interest; this also is pointless and a chasing after wind. 


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Whatever exists has been named already; <n>{I.e. its destiny is known}</n> people know what it means <n>{Lit. already; it is known}</n> to be human and a person cannot defeat one who is more powerful than he. 


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Who knows what is best for people in this life, every day of their pointless lives that they pass through <n>{Or they spend}</n> like a shadow? Who informs people on earth what will come along after them? 


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<n>{Lessons for Life}</n> d A good name exceeds the value of fine perfume, and the day of someone's death exceeds the value of <n>{Lit. death than}</n> the day of his birth. 


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It's better to attend a funeral <n>{Lit. house of mourning}</n> than to attend a banquet, <n>{Lit. house of feasting}</n> for everyone dies eventually, and the living will take this to heart. 


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It is better to listen to a wise person's rebuke than to listen to the praise <n>{Lit. song}</n> of fools. 


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<n>{Avoiding the Evils of Life}</n> d Unjust gain makes the wise foolish, and a bribe corrupts the heart. 


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The conclusion of something is better than its beginning, and a patient attitude <n>{Lit. spirit}</n> is more valuable than a proud one. <n>{Lit. spirit}</n> 


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Never ask "Why does the past <n>{Lit. the former days}</n> seem so much better than now?" <n>{Lit. than these}</n> because this question does not come from wisdom. 


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Wise use of possessions is good; it brings benefit to the living. <n>{Lit. to those who see the sun}</n> 


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Indeed, wisdom gives protection, <n>{Or shade}</n> just like money does, but it's better to know that wisdom gives life, to those who have mastered <n>{Or acquired}</n> it. 


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When times are good, be joyful; when times are bad, consider this: God made the one as well as the other, so people won't seek anything outside of his best. 


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I have seen it all <n>{Lit. seen in pointlessness}</n> during my pointless life: both a righteous person who dies while he is righteous, and a wicked person who lives to an old age, while remaining wicked. <n>{Lit. lives long in his evil}</n> 


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<n>{Practical Wisdom}</n> d Do not be overly righteous, nor be overly wise. Why be self-destructive? 


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It is good for you to grab hold of this and not let go, because whoever fears God will escape all of these extremes. <n>{The Heb. lacks extremes}</n> 


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I committed myself to understand, to learn, to search for wisdom and explanations, and to understand both the evil that is foolishness and the stupidity that is delusion. 


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I discovered for myself a bitterness that surpasses that of death: the woman whose heart is full of <n>{The Heb. lacks full of}</n> snares and nets, whose hands are chains of bondage. Whoever pleases God will escape from her, but the transgressor will be trapped by her. 


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Among the things I seek but have not found: one man among a thousand I did find, but I have not found one woman to be wise <n>{The Heb. lacks to be wise}</n> among all these. 


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I have discovered only this: God made human beings for righteousness, but they seek many alternatives." 


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<n>{The Wise Use of Power}</n> d Who is really wise? Who knows how to interpret this saying: "A person's wisdom improves his appearance, softening a harsh countenance." 


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<n>{The Wisdom of Pleasing Leaders}</n> d I advise <n>{The Heb. lacks advise}</n> doing what the king says, especially regarding an oath to God. 


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Whoever obeys his commands will not experience harm, and the wise in heart will discern both the appropriate time and response. <n>{Lit. judgment}</n> 


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Indeed, there is an appropriate time and a response <n>{Lit. judgment}</n> for every circumstance, since human misery weighs heavily upon him. 


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For he has absolutely no knowledge what will happen, since who can declare to him when it will come about? 


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Just as no human being has control over the wind <n>{Or spirit}</n> to restrain it, so also no human being has control over the day of his death. Just as no one is discharged during war, so wickedness will not release those who practice <n>{Or serve}</n> it. 


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I observed all this, and carefully considered everything that is undertaken on earth, especially the time when someone dominates another to his detriment. 


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So I watched the wicked being entombed. They used to come in and out of the Holy Place, <n>{I.e. the Temple}</n> but now they are forgotten in the city, where they used to work. This, too, is pointless. 


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<n>{The Wisdom of Fearing God}</n> d Whenever a sentence for a crime is not carried out swiftly, the human mind <n>{Lit. the heart of the sons of men within them}</n> becomes determined to commit evil. 


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Even though a sinner does what is wrong a hundred times and still survives, nevertheless I also know that things will go well for those who fear God, who fear in his presence. 


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But things will not go well for the wicked person: he will not lengthen his life <n>{Lit. days}</n> like a shadow, since he has no fear before God. 


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<n>{Fruitless Righteousness, Fruitful Evil}</n> d Here is a pointless thing that happens on earth: A righteous man receives what happens to the wicked, and a wicked man receives what happens to the righteous. I concluded that this, too, is pointless. 


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So then I recommended enjoyment of life, because it is better on earth for a man to eat, drink, and be happy, since this will stay with him throughout his struggle all the days of his life, which God grants him on earth. 


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When I dedicated myself to experience wisdom and to observe what is undertaken on earth even going without sleep day and night 


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I saw all of it as the activity of God. Frankly, a human being cannot understand what happens on earth, because however hard a man works to discover it, he will not find out. Despite what he thinks he knows, he will not be able to figure it out. 


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<n>{God's Sovereignty}</n> d In light of all of this, I committed myself to explain it this way: the righteous and the wise, along with everything they do, are in the hands of God. Furthermore, as to love and hate, no human being knows everything concerning them. 


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Everyone shares the same experience: a single event affects the righteous, the wicked, the good, the clean, the unclean, whoever sacrifices, and whoever does not sacrifice. As it is with the good person, so also it is with the sinner; as it is with someone who takes an oath, so also it is with someone who fears taking an oath. 


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<n>{The Universality of Death}</n> d There is a tragedy that infects everything that happens on earth: a common event happens to everyone. In fact, the hearts of human beings are full of evil. Madness remains in their hearts while they live, and afterwards they join the dead. 


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"While someone is among the living, hope remains," because "it is better to be a living dog than to be a dead lion." <n>{These are ancient proverbs.}</n> 


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At least the living know they will die, but the dead know nothing; they no longer have a reward, since memory about them has been forgotten. 


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Furthermore, their love, their hate, and their envy have been long lost. Never again will they have a part in what happens on earth. 


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<n>{The Fine Art of Enjoying Life}</n> d Go ahead and enjoy your meals as you eat. Drink your wine with a joyful attitude, because God already has approved your actions. 


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Find joy in living with your wife whom you love every day of your pointless life that God <n>{Lit. he}</n> gave you on earth, because this is your life assignment and your work to do on earth. 


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Whatever the activity in which you engage, do it with all your ability, because there is no work, no planning, no learning, and no wisdom in the next world <n>{Lit. in Sheol ; i.e. the realm of the dead}</n> where you're going. 


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I considered and observed on earth the following: The race doesn't go to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor food to the wise, nor wealth to the smart, nor recognition to the skilled. Instead, timing and circumstances meet them all. 


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In addition, no human being knows his time: Like fish captured in a cruel net, or as birds caught in a snare, so also are human beings caught by bad timing that surprises them. 


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<n>{Wisdom Surpasses Foolishness}</n> d I also observed this example of <n>{The Heb. lacks example of}</n> wisdom on earth, and it seemed important to me: 


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There was a little city with few men in it. A great king came against it, surrounded it, and built massive siege ramps against it. 


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Now there was found within it a poor, but wise man. He delivered the city by his wisdom, but not one person remembered that poor man. 


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So I concluded, <n>{Lit. said}</n> "Wisdom is better than strength. Nevertheless, the wisdom of the poor is rejected his words are never heard." 


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<n>{Proverbs about Wisdom and Foolishness}</n> d As dead flies cause the perfumer's ointment to stink, so also does a little foolishness to one's reputation of wisdom and honor. 


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Furthermore, the way a fool lives shows he has no sense; he proclaims to everyone that he's a fool. 


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Foolishness is given great honor, while the prosperous sit in lowly places. <n>{The Heb. lacks places}</n> 


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And I have observed servants riding <n>{The Heb. lacks riding}</n> on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants. 


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If someone's ax is blunt the edge isn't sharpened then more strength will be needed. Putting wisdom to work will bring success. 


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The fool overflows with words, and no one can predict what will happen. As to what will happen after him, who can explain it? 


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That land is blessed whose king is of noble birth, whose princes feast at the right time, for strength, and not to become drunk. 


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Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts. Do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom. For a bird will fly by and tell what you say, or something with wings may talk about it. 


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Apportion what you have into seven, or even eight parts, because you don't know what disaster might befall the land. 


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If the clouds are full of rain, they will pour out on the earth; if a tree falls toward the south or the north, wherever it falls, there it will lay. 


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Whoever keeps staring at the wind won't sow; whoever daydreams <n>{Lit. who stares at clouds}</n> won't reap. 


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Just as you do not understand the way of the spirit in the <n>{Lit. the bones in the}</n> womb of a pregnant mother, so also you do not know what God is doing in everything he makes. 


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Sow your seed in the morning, and don't stop working <n>{Lit. then give your hand no rest}</n> until evening, since you don't know which of your endeavors will do well, whether this one or that, or even if both will do equally well. 


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<n>{Preparing for Old Age}</n> d How sweet is the daylight, and how pleasant it is for someone's eyes to behold the sunshine! 


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Even if a person lives many years, let him enjoy them all, recalling that there will be many days of darkness to come all of which are pointless. 


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So enjoy yourself in your youth, young man, and be encouraged during your younger days. Live as you like, consistent with your world view, but keep in mind that God will bring you to account for everything. 


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Banish sorrow from your heart, and evil from your body, since both childhood and the prime of life <n>{Lit. dark hair}</n> are pointless. 


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<n>{Remember Your Creator}</n> d So remember your Creator during your youth! Otherwise, troublesome days will come and years will creep up on you when you'll say, "I find no pleasure in them," 


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Otherwise, when the sun, daylight, moon, or stars turn dark, or when clouds fail to return after the rain 


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when that day comes, the palace guards will tremble, strong men will stoop down, women grinders will cease because they are few, and the sight of <n>{The Heb. lacks the sight of}</n> those who peer through the lattice will grow dim. 


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The doors to the street will be shut when the sound of grinding decreases, when one wakes up at the song of a bird, and all of the singing women are silenced. 


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At that time they will fear climbing <n>{The Heb. lacks climbing}</n> heights and dangers along the road while the almond tree will blossom, and the grasshopper is weighed down. Desire will cease, <n>{Lit. The caper berry will have no effect}</n> because the person goes to his eternal home, and mourners will gather in the marketplace. 


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When the silver cord is severed, the golden vessel is broken, the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, and the wheel is broken at the cistern, 


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then man's <n>{The Heb. lacks man's}</n> dust will go back to the earth, returning to what it was, and the spirit <n>{Or the breath of life}</n> will return to the God who gave it. 


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<n>{Conclusions}</n> d Moreover, besides being wise himself, the Teacher taught people what he had learned by listening, making inquiries, and composing many proverbs. 


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The Teacher searched to find appropriate expressions, and what is written here <n>{The Heb. lacks here}</n> is right and truthful. 


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Sayings from the wise are like cattle prods and well fastened nails; this <n>{The Heb. lacks this}</n> masterful collection was given by one shepherd. 


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So learn from them, my son. There is no end to the crafting of many books, and too much study wearies the body. 


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Let the conclusion of all of these thoughts be heard: Fear God and obey his commandments, for this is what it means to be human. 


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<n>{ The Most Beautiful}</n> <n>{ Song of Songs}</n> d <n>{Title}</n> d The Most Beautiful Song by Solomon. 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Let him kiss me over and over again! <n>{Lit. me with the kisses of his mouth}</n> Your love is better than wine. 


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The fragrance of your perfumed oil is wonderful. Your name is perfume poured out. Therefore the young women love you. 


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Take me with <n>{Lit. Draw me after}</n> you! Let's run away! Let the king bring me into his private chambers. <n>{The Young Women}</n> d The daughters <n>{Or The young women}</n> of Jerusalem <n>{The Heb. lacks daughters of Jerusalem (cf. v. 5)}</n> will rejoice and be happy for you. We will value your love more than wine. They love you appropriately. 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d The daughters <n>{Or The young women}</n> of Jerusalem, I'm dark and lovely like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon. 


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Don't stare at me because I'm dark; the sun has tanned me. My mother's sons were angry with me. They made me the caretaker of the vineyards, but I didn't take care of my own vineyard. 


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Tell me, you whom I love, where do you graze your flock? Where do you make your flock lie down <n>{Lit. where do you make to lie down}</n> at noon? Why should I be considered a veiled woman <n>{I.e. a prostitute}</n> beside the flocks of your companions? 


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<n>{The Lover}</n> d If you don't know, most beautiful of women, go out after the flock and graze your young goats beside the shepherd's tents. 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d While the king was sitting at his table, my perfume sent forth its fragrance. 


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My beloved is to me a pouch of myrrh <n>{I.e. a fragrant spice used as a perfume}</n> that lies between my breasts all night. 


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My beloved is to me a cluster of henna <n>{I.e. an aromatic shrub used cosmetically}</n> blossoms in the vineyards of En-gedi. 


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<n>{The Lover}</n> d Look at you! You are beautiful, my darling. Look at you! You are so beautiful. Your eyes are doves. 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Look at you! You are handsome, my beloved, truly lovely. How lush is our couch. 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Like an apple <n>{Or apricot}</n> tree among the trees of the forest, so is my beloved among the young men. In his shade I take delight and sit down, and his fruit is sweet to my taste. <n>{Lit. palate}</n> 


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Swear to me, young women of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the does of the field, that you won't awaken or arouse love before its proper time! <n>{Lit. until it pleases}</n> 


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My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag. Look, there he stands behind our wall, looking through the windows, gazing through the lattice. 


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Blossoms have appeared in the land. The season of songbirds <n>{Or for pruning}</n> has arrived, and cooing of turtledoves is heard in our land. 


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The fig tree has produced its fruit, <n>{Lit. has ripened}</n> the grapevines have blossomed and exude their fragrance. "Get up, my darling, my beautiful one, and come on. 


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My dove, in the hidden places of the rocks, in the secret places of the cliffs, show me your form, and let me hear your voice. For your voice is pleasant, and your shape is lovely. 


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Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that destroy the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom." 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d My beloved belongs to me and I belong to him. He is the one who shepherds his flock among the lilies. 


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Until the day breaks <n>{Or until the cool of the day ; lit. until the day breathes}</n> and the shadows flee, turn around, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or a young stag on the rugged mountains. <n>{Or the mountains of Bether}</n> 


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<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Night after night on my bed, I sought the one I love; I sought him, but didn't find him. 


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I'll get up and go all around the city, throughout the streets, and in the squares. I'll seek the one I love. I sought him, but didn't find him. 


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The watchmen who go all around the city found me. I asked, <n>{The Heb. lacks I asked}</n> "Have you seen the one I love?" 


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I had just passed them when I found the one I love. I held him and wouldn't let him go until I brought him to my mother's house, to the room of the one who conceived me. 


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<n>{The Lover Arrives}</n> d What <n>{Or Who}</n> is this coming up from the desert like columns of smoke, perfumed with myrrh <n>{Myrrh was a fragrant spice used as a perfume.}</n> and incense <n>{Or frankincense}</n> from all the fragrant powders of the merchant? 


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Look! It's Solomon's sedan chair, <n>{Or palanquin ; i.e. a portable compartment for carrying important people.}</n> with 60 of the best soldiers in Israel <n>{Lit. mighty men from the mighty men of Israel}</n> surrounding it. 


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All of them are wearing swords and are experienced in battle. Each has his sword on his thigh, ready for the terror of the night. <n>{Lit. thigh, from the terror of the night}</n> 


text:
He made its posts of silver, its back of gold. Its seat was purple, and its interior was lovingly inlaid by the young women of Jerusalem. 


text:
Come out, young women of Zion, and see King Solomon with the crown with which his mother crowned him on his wedding day his day of great delight. <n>{Lit. day of the rejoicing of his heart}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Lover}</n> d Look at you! You are beautiful, my darling. Look at you! You are so beautiful. Your eyes behind your veil are doves, your hair is like a flock of goats coming down from Mt. Gilead. 


text:
Your teeth are like a flock of sheep about to be sheared, <n>{Or like sheared sheep}</n> who are coming up from being washed. <n>{Lit. from washing}</n> All of them are twins, not one has lost <n>{Lit. been bereaved of ; i.e. her teeth match}</n> her young. 


text:
Your lips are like a scarlet thread, and your mouth is lovely. Behind your veil, your temple is like a slice of pomegranate. 


text:
Your neck is like the tower of David, built with rows of stones. A thousand shields are hung upon it, all the shields of the warriors. 


text:
Until the day breaks <n>{Or until the cool of the day; lit. until the day breathes ;}</n> and the shadows flee, I'll go to the mountain of myrrh <n>{Myrrh was a fragrant spice used as a perfume.}</n> and to the hill of frankincense. <n>{Frankincense was a fragrant spice used to make incense and perfume.}</n> 


text:
Come with me from Lebanon, my bride, come with me from Lebanon. May you journey from the top of Amana, from the tops of Senir and Hermon, from the dens of lions, from the mountain lairs of leopards. 


text:
You have made my heart beat faster, my sister, my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> bride. You have made my heart beat faster with one glance of your eyes, with one strand of your necklace. 


text:
How beautiful is your love, my sister, my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> bride. How much better is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than all kinds of spices. 


text:
Your lips drip honey, my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> bride; milk and honey are under your tongue. The scent of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon. 


text:
My sister, my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> bride, is a locked garden a locked rock garden, a sealed up spring. 


text:
nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with all the trees of frankincense, along with myrrh and aloes, and all the finest spices. <n>{All the spices listed in verses 13 and 14 were used for perfume.}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Awake, north wind, and come, south wind. Make my garden breathe out, let its fragrance <n>{Or its spices}</n> flow. Let my beloved come into his garden, and let him eat its choicest fruits. 


text:
<n>{The Lover}</n> d I've come into my garden, my sister, my <n>{The Heb. lacks my}</n> bride; I've gathered my myrrh with my spices. I've eaten my honeycomb with my honey. I've drunk my wine with my milk. Eat, friends! Drink and become drunk with love. 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d I was asleep, but my heart was awake. There's a sound! My beloved is knocking. <n>{The Lover}</n> d"Open up for me, my sister, my darling, my dove, my perfect one. For my head is drenched with dew, my hair with the dampness of the night." 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d "I've taken off my clothes <n>{Or my tunic}</n> am I supposed to put them on again? <n>{Lit. How shall I put them on again?}</n> I've washed my feet am I supposed to <n>{Lit. How shall I}</n> get them dirty again?" 


text:
My beloved reached out his hand for the latch. <n>{Or keyhole}</n> My feelings for him were aroused. 


text:
I got up to open the door, <n>{The Heb. lacks the door}</n> and my hands dripped with myrrh, my fingers with liquid myrrh, on the handle of the lock. 


text:
I opened the door <n>{The Heb. lacks the door}</n> for my beloved, but my beloved had turned away; he was gone! My very life went out when he departed. <n>{Or when he spoke}</n> I searched for him, but couldn't find him. I called out to him, but he didn't answer. 


text:
The watchmen making their <n>{The Heb. lacks their}</n> rounds through the city found me. They beat me, they bruised me. Those guarding the walls took my cloak <n>{Or shawl}</n> from me. 


text:
I charge you, young women of Jerusalem, "If you find my beloved, what are you to tell him? Tell him <n>{The Heb. lacks Tell him}</n> that I'm weak with love." 


text:
<n>{The Young Women}</n> d What is so special about your beloved, <n>{Or How is your beloved better than other beloveds}</n> most beautiful of women? What is so special about your beloved, that you charge us like this? 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d My beloved is dazzling, with a dark and healthy complexion, outstanding among ten thousand. 


text:
His cheeks are like beds of spices, like towers of perfume. His lips are lilies, dripping with liquid myrrh. 


text:
His hands are rods of gold, set with beryl. His stomach is carved ivory, inlaid with sapphires. <n>{Or lapis lazuli}</n> 


text:
His legs are pillars of marble set on bases of pure gold. His appearance is like Lebanon, choice like its cedars. 


text:
His mouth <n>{Lit. palate}</n> is sweetness, and all of him is desirable. This is my beloved, this is my friend, young women of Jerusalem! 


text:
<n>{The Young Women}</n> d Where did your beloved go, most beautiful of women? Where did your beloved turn, so we may look for him with you? 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to graze his flock <n>{The Heb. lacks his flock}</n> in the gardens and gather lilies. 


text:
I belong to my beloved, and my beloved belongs to me. He is the one who grazes his flock <n>{The Heb. lacks his flock}</n> among the lilies. 


text:
<n>{The Lover}</n> d You are beautiful, my darling, like Tirzah, <n>{I.e. a prominent city in the northern kingdom of Israel}</n> lovely like Jerusalem, as awesome as an army with banners. 


text:
Turn your eyes from me, for they excite me. <n>{Or overwhelm me}</n> Your hair is like a flock of goats coming down from Mt. Gilead. 


text:
Your teeth are like a flock of ewes coming up from being washed. <n>{Lit. from washing}</n> All of them are twins, not one has lost <n>{Lit. been bereaved of ; i.e. her teeth match}</n> her young. 


text:
There are sixty queens and eighty mistresses, <n>{Or concubines ; i.e. secondary wives}</n> and too many young women to count, 


text:
but my dove, my perfect one, is unique. She's unique to her mother, she's pure to the one who gave birth to her. Young women see her and call her blessed, queens and mistresses praise her. 


text:
<n>{The Young Women}</n> d Who is this who appears like the dawn, beautiful as the moon, bright as the sun, awesome as an army with banners? 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d I went down to the walnut orchard, to look at the green sprouts in the valley, to see whether the vine had budded, whether the pomegranates had blossomed. 


text:
Before I knew it, <n>{Lit. I did not know ; i.e. was daydreaming}</n> I imagined myself among the chariots of my noble people. <n>{Or of Amminadib}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Young Women}</n> d <n>{This v. is 7:1 in MT}</n> Return, return, Shulammite, return, return, so we may look at you! <n>{The Lover}</n> d Why should you look at the Shulammite, <n>{Or look at Shulamit}</n> like you watch <n>{The Heb. lacks you watch}</n> the dance of the two camps? <n>{Or the dance of Mahanaim}</n> 


text:
<n>{This v. is 7:2 in MT}</n> How beautiful are your feet in sandals, noble lady. <n>{Or prince's daughter}</n> The curves of your thighs are like ornaments, the work of a skilled artist's hands. 


text:
Your navel is a rounded goblet that never lacks mixed wine. Your abdomen is a bundle of wheat, enclosed by lilies. 


text:
Your neck is like a tower of ivory. Your eyes are like the <n>{The Heb. lacks like the}</n> pools in Heshbon, beside the gate of Beth-rabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon, which faces Damascus. 


text:
Your head crowns you <n>{Lit. is on you}</n> like Mount Carmel. Your flowing locks <n>{Lit. the hair of your head}</n> are like purple, and a king could be captured in the dangling tresses. 


text:
How beautiful and lovely you are, you are love with its exquisite delights. <n>{Or my love with exquisite delights ; Lit. Love with exquisite delights}</n> 


text:
Your stature <n>{Lit. This stature of yours}</n> is like a palm tree, and your breasts are like clusters of fruit. <n>{The Heb. lacks of fruit}</n> 


text:
I told myself, "I'll go up the palm tree, and take hold of its fruit. May your breasts be like clusters of the vine, <n>{I.e. grapes}</n> and the smell of your breath like apples. <n>{Or apricots}</n> 


text:
May your mouth <n>{Lit. palate}</n> be like good wine. <n>{The Loved One}</n> d May it go down smoothly to my beloved, gliding gently over the lips of the sleeping ones. 


text:
Come, my beloved. Let us go out to the country, let us spend the night in the villages. <n>{Or night among the henna blossoms}</n> 


text:
Let us go early to the vineyards, let us see whether the vine has budded, whether the blossom has opened, whether the pomegranates have bloomed. There I'll give you my love. 


text:
The mandrakes give off their <n>{The Heb. lacks their}</n> fragrance, and over our doors are all the choice fruits, both old and new, that I've stored up for you, my beloved. 


text:
If only you were like a brother to me, like <n>{The Heb. lacks like}</n> one who nursed at my mother's breasts. If I found you outside I would kiss you, and no one would view me with contempt. <n>{I.e. think badly of me}</n> 


text:
I would lead you, I would bring you to the house of my mother who used to teach me. I would give you some spiced wine to drink, from the juice of my pomegranates. <n>{Or some of my sweet pomegranate wine}</n> 


text:
Swear to me, young women of Jerusalem, that you won't awaken or arouse love before its proper time! <n>{Lit. until it pleases}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Young Women}</n> d Who is this coming up from the desert, leaning on her beloved? <n>{The Loved One}</n> d Under the apple tree <n>{Or apricot tree}</n> I awakened you. There your mother had gone into labor with you; there she went into labor and gave birth to you. 


text:
Set me like a seal <n>{I.e. a cylinder seal or a signet ring used to indicate ownership or authority}</n> over your heart, like a seal on your arm. For love is as strong as death, passion <n>{Or jealousy}</n> as intense as Sheol. <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> The flames of love <n>{Lit. its flames}</n> are flames of fire, a blaze that comes from the Lord . <n>{Or an intense blaze}</n> 


text:
Mighty bodies of water cannot extinguish love, rivers cannot put it out. If a man were to give all the wealth of his house for love, he would surely be viewed with contempt. 


text:
<n>{The Loved One's Brothers}</n> d We <n>{I.e. the bride's brothers}</n> have a little sister, and she has not yet reached maturity. <n>{Lit. has no breasts}</n> What will we do for our sister to prepare her for <n>{Lit. sister on the day when she's spoken for}</n> her engagement? <n>{Or marriage}</n> 


text:
If she's a wall, on her we will build a battlement of silver. If she's a door, we will enclose her with planks of cedar. 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d I was a wall and my breasts were like towers. Then I became like one who finds peace <n>{Or contentment}</n> in his eyes. 


text:
Solomon has a vineyard in Baal-hamon. He entrusted the vineyard to caretakers each one is to bring 1,000 pieces of silver in exchange for its fruit. 


text:
My vineyard belongs to me and is at my disposal. <n>{Lit. is before me}</n> The 1,000 are for you, Solomon, and 200 are for those who take care of its fruit. 


text:
<n>{The Lover}</n> d You who sit in the gardens, companions are listening for your voice, but let me hear it. 


text:
<n>{The Loved One}</n> d Come quickly, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountains of spices. 


text:
<n>{ The Book of the Prophet}</n> <n>{ Isaiah}</n> d <n>{The Vision of Isaiah}</n> d This <n>{This book has been translated from the Great Isaiah Scroll (1QIsa a ) of the DSS. The MT, LXX, Syr, Targ, and other ancient texts are compared in footnotes where they may vary from 1QIsa a and other DSS mss. Some of these ancient readings were incorporated instead of the DSS Isaiah text.}</n> is the vision that Amoz's son Isaiah <n>{The Heb. name Isaiah means The Lord has saved}</n> had about Judah and Jerusalem during the reigns <n>{Lit. days}</n> of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. 


text:
<n>{Rebellious Judah}</n> d Listen, you heavens, and let the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks the}</n> earth pay attention, because the Lord has spoken: "I reared children and brought them to adulthood, but then they rebelled against me. 


text:
The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master's feeding trough, but <n>{So 4QIsa j ; 1QIsa a MT lack but}</n> Israel doesn't know, and <n>{So 4QIsa j ; 1QIsa a MT lack and}</n> my people don't understand. 


text:
"Oh, you sinful nation! You people burdened down by iniquity! You offspring of those who keep practicing what is evil! You corrupt children! "They've abandoned the Lord ; they've despised the Holy One of Israel; in their estrangement, they've walked away from me. <n>{Lit. they've gone back}</n> 


text:
"Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? Your whole head is sick, and your whole heart is faint. 


text:
From the sole of your foot to the top of your head, there's no soundness evident <n>{Lit. soundness in it}</n> only bruises, sores, and festering wounds that haven't been cleaned out, bandaged, or treated <n>{Or softened}</n> with oil." 


text:
<n>{God's Diagnosis}</n> d "Your country lies desolate; your cities have been incinerated. Before your very eyes, foreigners are devouring your land they've brought devastation on it, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MurIsa MT LXX read Devastated}</n> while the land is <n>{DSS MT lack the land is}</n> overthrown by foreigners. 


text:
"The daughter of Zion is left abandoned, like a booth in a vineyard, like a hut in a cucumber field, or like a city under siege. 


text:
If the Lord of the Heavenly Armies hadn't left us a few survivors, we would be like Sodom; we would be like Gomorrah. 


text:
"Listen to what the Lord says, you rulers of Sodom, and <n>{So 1:10 1QIsa a Syr; MT LXX Targ Vulgate lack and}</n> pay attention to the teaching of our God, you people of Gomorrah! 


text:
"How do your voluminous sacrifices benefit me?" the Lord is asking. "I've had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed beasts. I don't enjoy the blood of bulls, lambs, or goats. 


text:
"When you come to present yourselves in my presence, <n>{Lit. come for my face to appear}</n> who has required you to trample on my courts? 


text:
Stop bringing useless offerings! Incense is detestable to me, as are your New Moons, Sabbaths, and calling of convocations. I cannot stand iniquity within <n>{Lit. and}</n> a solemn assembly. 


text:
As for your New Moons and your appointed festivals, I abhor <n>{Lit. festivals, my soul abhors}</n> them. They've become a burden to me; I've grown weary of carrying that burden. <n>{Lit. carrying them}</n> 


text:
When you spread out your hands in prayer, <n>{DSS MT lack in prayer}</n> I'll hide my eyes from you. Even though you pray repeatedly, I won't listen. Your hands are full of blood, your fingers drenched <n>{DSS lack drenched}</n> with iniquity." <n>{MT 4QIsa f lack this line}</n> 


text:
<n>{An Invitation to Reconciliation}</n> d "Wash yourselves, and <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa f MT lack and}</n> make yourselves clean; remove your evil behavior from my presence; stop practicing what is evil. 


text:
Learn to practice what is good; seek justice, alleviate oppression, <n>{Or rescue the oppressed}</n> defend orphans <n>{Or defend the fatherless}</n> in court, and <n>{DSS MT lack and}</n> plead the widow's case. 


text:
"Please come, and let's reason together," implores the Lord . "Even though your <n>{Lit. your (pl.)}</n> sins are like scarlet, they'll be white like snow. Though they're like crimson, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa f MT read they're red like crimson}</n> they'll become like wool. 


text:
but <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX Targ Syr; 4QIsa f lacks but}</n> if you refuse and rebel, you'll be devoured by the sword, <n>{So 1QIsa a Targ Syr; LXX reads the sword will devour you}</n> because the Lord <n>{Lit. Lord's mouth}</n> has spoken." 


text:
<n>{Diagnosis and Judgment}</n> d "How the faithful city has become a whore, she who used to be filled with justice! Righteousness used to reside within her, but now only murderers live there. 


text:
Your silver has <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a reads have}</n> become dross, your best wine is diluted with water. 


text:
Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. All of them are lovers of <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads Everyone loves}</n> bribes and are runners <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads and run}</n> after gifts. They don't bring justice to orphans, <n>{Or to the fatherless}</n> and the widow's case never comes up for review in their court." <n>{Lit. comes before them}</n> 


text:
<n>{Restoration and Redemption}</n> d Therefore this is what the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies, the one who is Israel's Mighty One, declares: "Now I'll get relief from his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; 4QIsa f MT LXX Vulgate read my}</n> enemies and avenge myself on his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; LXX MT read my}</n> foes. 


text:
When I turn <n>{So 1QIsa a ; LXX MT read And let me turn}</n> my attention to you, <n>{Lit. my hand against you}</n> I'll refine your dross as in a furnace. <n>{1QIsa a lacks as in a furnace ; MT reads as lye}</n> I'll remove <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa f ; MT reads Let me remove}</n> all your alloy. 


text:
Let me restore <n>{1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa f reads I will restore}</n> your judges as at the first, and your counselors as at the beginning. Afterward you'll be called «The Righteous City'and «The Faithful City of Zion'. <n>{So LXX; the Heb. lacks Zion}</n> 


text:
"Zion <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a reading unclear}</n> will be redeemed by justice, and her repentant ones <n>{So 1QIsa a MT 4QIsa f ; LXX reads her captivity}</n> by righteousness. 


text:
They'll be ashamed of the oak trees that you desired; and you'll blush because of the gardens that you have chosen. 


text:
Your <n>{Lit. Your (pl.); so 1QIsa a Vulgate. The}</n> strong one <n>{LXX MT read Their strength}</n> will be like tinder, and your work <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads their work ; LXX reads their deeds}</n> a spark; both of them will burn together, with no one to quench the flames that burn <n>{DSS MT lack the flames that burn}</n> them." 


text:
<n>{A Message for Judah and Jerusalem}</n> d The message that Amoz's son Isaiah received <n>{Lit. observed}</n> concerning Judah and Jerusalem: 


text:
"It will come about in the last days that the mountain that is the Lord's Temple will be established as the highest of mountains, <n>{So 4QIsa e MT LXX; 1QIsa a lacks of mountains}</n> and will be raised above the hills; all the nations will stream to <n>{Or will flow over ; so 1QIsa a LXX; 4QIsa e 4QIsa f MT LXX read will travel to ; cf. Mic 4:1}</n> it. 


text:
Many groups of people <n>{Lit. Many peoples}</n> will come, commenting, "Come! Let's go up to <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa f ; 4QIsa e MT read to the Lord's mountain, to}</n> the Temple of the God of Jacob, that they <n>{So 1QIsa a ; cf. LXX, Mic 4:2; 4QIsa e MT LXX read he}</n> may teach us his ways. Then let's walk in his paths." <n>{The Rule of God from Jerusalem}</n> d"Instruction <n>{Or For the law}</n> will proceed from Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. 


text:
He will judge between the nations, and will render verdicts <n>{Or judgment}</n> for the benefit of many. <n>{Lit. many peoples}</n> "They will beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nations will not raise swords against nations, and they will not learn warfare anymore. 


text:
For you have rejected your people, the house of Jacob, because they are filled with practices learned <n>{1QIsa a MT lack with practices learned}</n> from the East and they are fortune-tellers like the Philistines. They cut deals <n>{Lit. They shake hands}</n> with foreigners. <n>{Lit. with descendants of foreigners}</n> 


text:
Their land is filled with silver and gold, and there is no end to their treasures; their land is filled with horses, and there is no end to their chariots. 


text:
Their land is filled with idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their own fingers have made. 


text:
"So mankind is humbled, each human being is brought low, and <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b ; the Heb. lacks and}</n> you won't forgive." <n>{So 1QIsa a 4QIsa b ; MT reads forgive them}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Coming Day of the Lord}</n> d <n>{This v. is missing from 1 QIsa a}</n> "Go into the rocks! Hide in the dust to escape <n>{Lit. from}</n> the terror of the Lord and to escape <n>{Lit. and from}</n> the glory of his majesty! <n>{So MT}</n> 


text:
The <n>{Lit. And the}</n> haughty looks of mankind will be brought low, <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX read mankind are low}</n> the lofty pride of human beings will be humbled, and the Lord alone will be exalted at that time. <n>{Lit. in that day}</n> 


text:
"For the Lord of the Heavenly Armies has reserved <n>{1QIsa a MT LXX lack reserved}</n> a time <n>{Lit. day}</n> to oppose <n>{Lit. against}</n> all who are proud and haughty, and the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read oppose all of the}</n> self-exalting they will be humbled. 


text:
He will take his stand <n>{DSS MT LXX lack He will take his stand}</n> against all the cedars of Lebanon, against the proud and self-exalting; and against all the oaks of Bashan; 


text:
"Humanity's haughtiness will be humbled, male arrogance will be brought low, and the Lord alone will be exalted in that day. 


text:
Their <n>{DSS MT LXX lack Their}</n> idols will utterly vanish. <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads He will abolish the idols}</n> 


text:
"They will enter caverns in the rocks and holes in the ground to escape <n>{Lit. from}</n> the presence of the terror of the Lord , to escape <n>{Lit. from}</n> the splendor of his majesty when he arises to terrify the earth. 


text:
At that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> mankind will throw their silver and gold idols <n>{Lit. silver idols and gold idols}</n> that their fingers have made <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads that they made for themselves ; LXX reads that they made}</n> as objects of worship to the moles and to the bats. 


text:
They will enter caverns in the rocks and clefts in the cliffs, to escape <n>{Lit. from}</n> the terror of the Lord and to escape <n>{Lit. from}</n> the splendor of his majesty, when he arises to terrorize the earth. 


text:
"Stop trusting in human beings, whose life breath is in their nostrils, for what are they <n>{Lit. what is he}</n> really worth?" <n>{LXX lacks this verse}</n> 


text:
<n>{Judgment Comes to Judah's Leaders}</n> d "Note this! The Lord G od of the Heavenly Armies is taking away from Jerusalem and Judah everything that your society needs <n>{Lit. Judah both supply and support}</n> all food supplies and all water supplies, 


text:
the commander of fifty and the man of rank, and the counselor, the expert magician, and the medium. 


text:
People will oppress one another It will be man against man and neighbor against neighbor. The young will be disrespectful to the old, and the worthless to the honorable. 


text:
"For a man will grab his brother in his own father's house, and say, «You have a cloak, so you be our leader, and this heap of ruins will be under your rule!'


text:
"But <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; the Heb. lacks But}</n> at that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> he'll protest! <n>{Lit. he'll cry out}</n> He'll say, «I won't be your healer. I have neither food nor clothing in my house! You're not going to make me a leader of the people!'


text:
"For Jerusalem has stumbled, and Judah has fallen, because what they say and do opposes <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read do is towards}</n> the Lord; they keep defying him. <n>{Lit. defying his glorious presence}</n> 


text:
"The expressions on their faces give them away. <n>{Lit. faces bears witness against them}</n> They parade their sin around like Sodom; they don't even try to <n>{1QIsa a MT lack try to}</n> hide it. How horrible it will be for them, because they have brought disaster on themselves!" 


text:
<n>{Encouragement to the Righteous}</n> d "Tell <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks Tell}</n> the righteous that things will go well, because they will enjoy <n>{Lit. eat}</n> the fruit of their actions." 


text:
<n>{Warning to the Wicked}</n> d "How terrible it will be for the wicked! Disaster is headed their way, because what they did with their hand <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read hands}</n> will be repaid <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads done}</n> to them. 


text:
"As for my people, children <n>{Or youths}</n> are their oppressors, and women rule over them. My people, your leaders are misleading you they're giving you confusing directions." <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a reads they're devouring your paths}</n> 


text:
<n>{When God Goes to Court}</n> d The Lord is taking his place to argue his case; he's standing up to judge the people. 


text:
The Lord will go to court <n>{Lit. go into judgment}</n> to oppose <n>{Lit. with}</n> the elders and princes of his people: "You're the ones who have been devouring the vineyard, the plunder of the poor is in your own houses! 


text:
How dare you crush <n>{Lit. What do you mean by crushing}</n> my people as you grind down the face of the poor?" declares the Lord God of the Heavenly Armies. <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks this line}</n> 


text:
<n>{Judgment of Jerusalem's Women}</n> d The Lord also says: "Because Zion's women are so haughty, and walk with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, prancing <n>{Or mincing}</n> along as they walk, and making tinkling noises with their ankle bracelets, <n>{Lit. their feet}</n> 


text:
therefore the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector; 1QIsa a 4QIsa b MT read my Lord ; LXX reads God}</n> will afflict sores on the heads of Zion's women, and the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a corrector MT; 1QIsa a reads my Lord}</n> will expose their private parts. 


text:
"At that time, <n>{Lit. In that day}</n> the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT 1QIsa a corrector read my Lord}</n> will take away the finery of the ankle bracelets, headbands, crescents, 


text:
"And it will come about that instead of fragrance there will be <n>{The 1QIsa a lacks will be a stench}</n> a stench; instead of a belt, a rope; instead of well-set hair, baldness; instead of a fine robe, sackcloth; and instead of beauty, shame. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads burning instead of beauty ; LXX lacks this line}</n> 


text:
Your men will die violently, <n>{Lit. will fall by the sword}</n> while your forces <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads force}</n> fall <n>{1QIsa a MT lack fall}</n> in battle 


text:
"At that time, <n>{Lit. day}</n> seven women will cling tightly to one man and will make him this offer: <n>{Lit. will say}</n> «We'll provide <n>{Lit. eat}</n> our own bread. We'll provide our own clothes. Just let us marry you <n>{Lit. let your name be upon us}</n> so we won't be stigmatized anymore.»" <n>{I.e. by appearing to be part of a family}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Future Glory of Jerusalem}</n> d "At that time, <n>{Lit. In that day}</n> the Lord's branch will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors of Israel and Judah. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX lack and Judah}</n> 


text:
Whoever <n>{Lit. It will come about that whoever}</n> survives in Zion and whoever remains in Jerusalem will be called holy everyone who has been appointed to survive in Jerusalem 


text:
when the Lord will have washed away the filth of the women <n>{Lit. daughters}</n> of Zion, cleaning up Jerusalem's guilt <n>{Lit. blood ; i.e. guilt incurred by shedding innocent blood}</n> by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of tempest. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads of burning}</n> 


text:
Then the Lord will create over the entire site of Mount Zion including over those who assemble there a cloud by day <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX reads day, accompanied by smoke, as well as the brilliance of a flaming fire by night, because over the entire glorious area there will be a canopy and 6 a shelter to protect from the heat of the day, and}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Lord's Vineyard}</n> d I will sing <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Please, let me sing}</n> for my beloved my love-song concerning his vineyard: "The one I love had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. 


text:
He plowed its land <n>{1QIsa a MT lack its land}</n> and cleared it of stones. Then he planted it with the choicest vines, built a watchtower in the middle of it, and dug a wine vat in it; He expected <n>{Or waited for}</n> it to produce good <n>{1QIsa a MT lack good}</n> grapes, but it produced only wild ones." <n>{I.e. grapes unsuitable for wine making}</n> 


text:
"So now, you inhabitants <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads inhabitant}</n> of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge, won't you please, between me and my vineyard. 


text:
What more could I do in <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads for}</n> my vineyard, that I haven't already done? When I expected it to produce good <n>{1QIsa a MT lack good}</n> grapes, why did it yield <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read produce}</n> wild ones? <n>{I.e. grapes unsuitable for wine making}</n> 


text:
"Now, let me tell you, won't you please, what I'm going to do to my vineyard. "I'm going to take away its protective hedge, and it will be devoured; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT will be for devouring ; LXX will be for plundering}</n> I'll break down its wall, and it will be trampled. 


text:
I'll make it a wasteland, and it won't be pruned or cultivated. Instead, briers and thorns will grow up. I'll also issue commands to the clouds, that they drop no rain upon it." 


text:
For the vineyard of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are the garden in which he delights. <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT his delightful garden}</n> He looked for justice, but saw only bloodshed; he searched <n>{1QIsa a MT lack he searched}</n> for righteousness, but heard only an outcry! 


text:
<n>{Judgment on Land Barons}</n> d "How terrible it will be for you who join house to house, who add field to field, until there is no more room, and you have settled yourselves alone <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads you are made to live alone}</n> in the middle of the land!" 


text:
The Lord of the Heavenly Armies has declared this so I could hear it: "Surely many houses will become desolate, great and beautiful houses, without occupants. 


text:
For ten acres of vineyard will produce only six gallons, <n>{Lit. only a bath}</n> and ten bushels <n>{Lit. and a homer}</n> of seed <n>{1QIsa a MT lack of seed}</n> will produce only one bushel." <n>{Lit. only an ephah}</n> 


text:
<n>{Judgment on Alcoholics}</n> d "How terrible it will be for those who rise at dawn in order to grab <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX may run after}</n> a stiff drink, for those who stay up late at night as wine inflames them! 


text:
They have the lyre and harp, the tambourine and flute, as well as wine at their festivals, but they don't respect what the Lord is doing, nor do they consider his actions. <n>{Lit. consider the work of his hands}</n> 


text:
Therefore my people go into exile because they lack understanding; my <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads their}</n> honored men go hungry, and the crowd is parched with thirst. 


text:
Therefore Sheol's <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> appetite has grown; it has opened its mouth beyond limit. Jerusalem's nobility and her multitudes will go there, along with her brawlers and whoever is reveling within her. 


text:
Humanity is brought low, and each one is humbled, while the eyes of the self-exalting are brought low. 


text:
But the Lord of the Heavenly Armies is exalted in justice, and the Holy God proves himself to be righteously holy. 


text:
Then the lambs will graze in their pasture; fatlings and foreigners will eat among the waste places of the rich." 


text:
<n>{Judgment on Mockers}</n> d "How terrible it will be for those who parade iniquity with cords of falsehood, who draw sin along as <n>{1QIsa a MT lack as}</n> with a cart rope; 


text:
who say: «Let God <n>{Lit. him}</n> be quick, let him speed up <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads hurry}</n> his work so we may see it! Let it happen! let the plan of the Holy One of Israel draw near, so we may recognize it!»" 


text:
<n>{Judgment on Moral Relativists}</n> d "How terrible it will be for those who call evil good and good evil, who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness, who substitute what is bitter for what is sweet and what is sweet for what is bitter!" 


text:
<n>{Judgment on the Arrogant}</n> d "How terrible it will be for those who are wise in their own opinion, and clever in their own reckoning! 


text:
"How terrible it will be for those who are heroes at drinking wine, and champions in mixing strong drink, 


text:
<n>{The Effects of Divine Judgment}</n> d Therefore, as flames of fire devour straw, as dry grass <n>{So MT; 1QIsa a reads fire}</n> collapses in flames, so their root will be rotten, and their blossom will blow away like dust, because they have rejected the instruction <n>{Or law}</n> of the Lord of the Heavenly Armies, and have despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. 


text:
Therefore <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX reads And}</n> the anger of the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; 4QIsa b LXX read Lord of the Heavenly Armies}</n> burned against his people, so he stretched out his hands <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read hand}</n> against them and afflicted them. The mountains quaked, and their corpses were like refuse in the middle of the streets. Throughout all of this, his anger has not turned away, and his hands are <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his hand is}</n> still stretched out to attack. <n>{DSS MT lack to attack}</n> 


text:
The Lord <n>{Lit. He}</n> will signal <n>{Lit. will send up a signal}</n> for nations far away, whistling for them to come <n>{1QIsa a MT lack to come}</n> from the ends of the earth. Look how quickly and how swiftly they come! 


text:
No one is weary, no one stumbles, <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads stumbles among them}</n> and no one slumbers or sleeps. No belt around their waists will come undone, nor will their sandal straps be broken. 


text:
Their arrows are sharp, all their bows ready for action. <n>{Lit. bows bent}</n> Their horses'hooves seem like flint, and their chariot wheels spin <n>{DSS MT lack spin}</n> like a whirlwind. 


text:
With a roar like a lion, they snarl, and like young lions, they growl; <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Their roaring is like a lion; like young lions they roar. They growl}</n> they seize their prey and then carry it off, with no one to rescue. 


text:
They will roar over it <n>{I.e. over conquered Judah}</n> at that time, <n>{Lit. it on that day}</n> like the sea waves roar. If one surveys the land, watch out! There's darkness and distress; even the daylight is darkened by its clouds. 


text:
<n>{Holy is the Lord}</n> d In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting upon his <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read a}</n> throne, high and exalted. The train of his robe filled the Temple. 


text:
The seraphim stood above him. Each had six wings: <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads six wings, six wings ; LXX reads six wings and six wings}</n> with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he was flying. 


text:
They kept on calling to each other: <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read calling and saying}</n> "Holy, holy, holy <n>{So MT LXX; 1QIsa a reads Holy, holy}</n> is the Lord of the Heavenly Armies! The whole earth is full of his glory!" 


text:
The foundations of the thresholds quaked at the sound of those who kept calling out, <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads of him who called out}</n> and the Temple was filled with smoke. 


text:
"How terrible it will be for me!" I cried, "because I am ruined! I'm a man with unclean lips, and I live among a people with unclean lips! And my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of the Heavenly Armies!" 


text:
<n>{The Calling of Isaiah}</n> d Then one of the seraphim flew to me, carrying a burning coal in his hand that he had taken from the altar with tongs. 


text:
He touched my mouth and said, "Look! Now that this has touched your <n>{So 1QIsa a MT LXX; 4QIsa f reads the}</n> lips, your guilt is taken away, and your sins <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads sin}</n> atoned for." 


text:
Then I heard the voice of the Lord as he was asking, "Whom will I send? Who will go for us?" "Here I am!" I replied. "Send me." 


text:
"Go!" he responded. "Tell this people: «Keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads and keep}</n> on seeing, but do not perceive.'


text:
Dull the mind <n>{Lit. Fatten the heart}</n> of this people, deafen their ears, and blind their eyes. By doing so, they won't see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their minds, turn back, and be healed." 


text:
Then I asked, "For how long, Lord ?" <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Lord}</n> He replied: "Until cities lie waste, without inhabitants, and houses without people; and the land becomes utterly desolate. 


text:
Until <n>{Lit. And}</n> the Lord removes people far away, and there are many empty places in the middle of the land. 


text:
Even though a tenth of its people remain <n>{Lit. tenth remains}</n> in it, it will once again be burned, <n>{Or devastated}</n> like a terebinth <n>{I.e. a sacred tree used for idolatry; cf. Hos 4:13}</n> or an oak tree, <n>{Or Asherah pole ; i.e. felled oaks used for making idols; cf. Hos 4:13, Isa 44:14}</n> the stump of which, though the tree has been <n>{1QIsa a lacks though the tree has been ; MT LXX read which, when}</n> felled, still contains holy seed." <n>{So 1QIsa a MT; LXX lacks this line}</n> 


text:
<n>{The Message to Ahaz}</n> d During the reign of Jotham's son Ahaz, Uzziah's grandson, king of Judah, King Rezin of Aram and Remaliah's son Pekah, king of Israel, approached Jerusalem and waged war against it, but they <n>{So 1QIsa a LXX; MT reads he}</n> could not mount an attack against it. 


text:
When it was reported to the house of David, "Aram has joined forces with Ephraim!" the <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his}</n> heart of the people of Ahaz <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read his heart and the heart of his people}</n> trembled like forest <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks forest}</n> trees in a windstorm. 


text:
So the Lord told Isaiah, "Go out to meet Ahaz, you and your son Shear-jashub, at the end of the aqueduct of the Upper Pool that proceeds along the highway to Launderer's Field. 


text:
Tell him, «Be careful, be calm, don't be afraid, and don't lose heart because of these two smoldering stumps of torches, that is, because of <n>{So 1QIsa a ; the Heb. lacks because of}</n> the fierce anger of Rezin, from Aram, and Remaliah's son. 


text:
"Let's go attack Judah, let's terrorize it, and let's conquer it for ourselves. Then we'll install Tabeel's son as king!"'


text:
Because Aram's head is Damascus, and Rezin is its king, <n>{Lit. is head of Damascus}</n> within sixty-five years Ephraim will be shattered as a people. 


text:
Furthermore, Ephraim's head is Samaria, and Remaliah's son is its king. <n>{Lit. is head of Samaria}</n> If all of you don't keep on believing, you'll never remain loyal.»" <n>{Or never keep on enduring}</n> 


text:
"Ask a sign from the Lord your God. Make it as deep as Sheol <n>{I.e. the realm of the dead}</n> or as high as heaven above." 


text:
In reply, the Lord <n>{Lit. reply, he}</n> announced, "Please listen, you household of David. Is it such a minor thing for you to try the patience of <n>{Lit. to wear out}</n> men? Must you also try the patience of <n>{Lit. also wear out}</n> my God? 


text:
"Therefore the Lord <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT reads Lord}</n> himself will give you a sign. Watch! The virgin <n>{So LXX; 1QIsa a MT read The young woman}</n> is conceiving a child, and will give birth to a son, and his name will be called <n>{So 1QIsa a ; MT LXX read she will name him ; MT alt. reading and you will name him}</n> Immanuel. <n>{The Heb. name Immanuel means God with us}</n> 


