58
1 For the choirmaster. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Miktam*58:1 Miktam is probably a musical or liturgical term; used for Psalms 16 and 56–60. of David.
2 Do you indeed speak justly in silence?†58:2 The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain; a slight change in vocalization reads Do you indeed speak justly, O rulers?
Do you judge uprightly, O sons of men?
3 No, in your hearts you devise injustice;
with your hands you mete out violence on the earth.
4 The wicked are estranged from the womb;
the liars go astray from birth.
5 Their venom is like the venom of a snake,
like a deaf cobra that shuts its ears,
6 refusing to hear the tune of the charmer
who skillfully weaves his spell.
7 O God, shatter their teeth in their mouths;
O LORD, tear out the fangs of the lions.
8 May they vanish
like water that runs off;
when he aims his arrows,
may they be cut down.‡58:8 Meaning of Hebrew uncertain; or when they draw the bow, may their arrows be blunted; or when they are trodden down, may they wither like grass
9 Like a slug that dissolves in its slime,
like a woman’s stillborn child,
may they never see the sun.
10 Before your pots can feel the burning thorns—
whether green or dry—
he will sweep them away.
11 The righteous will rejoice
when they see they are avenged;
they will wash their feet
in the blood of the wicked.
12 Then men will say,
“There is surely a reward for the righteous!
There is surely a God who judges the earth!”
*58:1 58:1 Miktam is probably a musical or liturgical term; used for Psalms 16 and 56–60.
†58:2 58:2 The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain; a slight change in vocalization reads Do you indeed speak justly, O rulers?
‡58:8 58:8 Meaning of Hebrew uncertain; or when they draw the bow, may their arrows be blunted; or when they are trodden down, may they wither like grass