Psalms 140

1 For the chief musician. A psalm of David. Yahweh, rescue me from the wicked; preserve me from violent men.

2 They plan evil in their hearts; they cause battles every day.

3 Their tongues wound like serpents; vipers' poison is on their lips. (Selah)

4 Keep me from the hands of the wicked, Yahweh; preserve me from violent men who plan to knock me over.

5 The proud have set a trap for me; they have spread a net; they have set a snare for me. (Selah)

6 I said to Yahweh, “You are my God; listen to my cries for mercy.”

7 Yahweh, my Lord, you are powerfully able to save me; you shield my head in the day of battle.

8 Yahweh, do not grant the desires of the wicked; do not let their plots succeed. (Selah)

9 Those who surround me raise their heads; let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

10 Let burning coals fall on them; throw them into the fire, into bottomless pits, never more to rise.

11 May men of tongues not be made secure on the earth; may evil hunt down the violent man to strike him dead.

12 I know that Yahweh will judge in favor of the afflicted, and that he will give justice to the needy.

13 Surely the righteous people will give thanks to your name; the upright people will live in your presence.