Psalm 39

1. (0) For the leader. Set in the style of Y’dutun. A psalm of David:

2. (1) I said, “I will watch how I behave, 2 so that I won’t sin with my tongue; 2 I will put a muzzle on my mouth 2 whenever the wicked confront me.”

3. (2) I was silent, said nothing, not even good; 3 but my pain kept being stirred up.

4. (3) My heart grew hot within me; 4 whenever I thought of it, the fire burned. 4 Then, [at last,] I let my tongue speak:

5. (4) “Make me grasp, Adonai, what my end must be, 5 what it means that my days are numbered; 5 let me know what a transient creature I am.

6. (5) You have made my days like handbreadths; 6 for you, the length of my life is like nothing.” 6 Yes, everyone, no matter how firmly he stands, 6 is merely a puff of wind. (Selah)

7. (6) Humans go about like shadows; 7 their turmoil is all for nothing. 7 They accumulate wealth, not knowing 7 who will enjoy its benefits.

8. (7) Now, Adonai, what am I waiting for? 8 You are my only hope.

9. (8) Rescue me from all my transgressions; 9 don’t make me the butt of fools.

10. (9) I am silent, I keep my mouth shut, 10 because it is you who have done it.

11. (10) Stop raining blows on me; 11 the pounding of your fist is wearing me down.

12. (11) With rebukes you discipline people for their guilt; 12 like a moth, you destroy what makes them attractive; 12 yes, everyone is merely a puff of wind. (Selah)

13. (12) Hear my prayer, Adonai, listen to my cry, 13 don’t be deaf to my weeping; 13 for with you, I am just a traveler 13 passing through, like all my ancestors.

14. (13) Turn your gaze from me, so I can smile again 14 before I depart and cease to exist.