Psalms [Praises] Tehillim [Praises] Chapter 1Context: Israel [God prevails] separates the mixed multitude after reading Torah scroll. (Neh 13:1-3) 1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand on the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in Adonai ’s Torah ·Teaching·. On his torot ·teachings· he meditates day and night. 3 He will be like a tree planted by the streams of water, that produces its fruit in its season, whose leaf also does not wither. Whatever he does shall prosper. 4 The wicked are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the upright. 6 For Adonai knows the way of the upright, but the way of the wicked shall perish. Chapter 2Context: God makes covenant promise to David [Beloved] to establish his house forever and that Messiah will be established on David’s throne. David [Beloved] is humble in his reply. (1 Chr 17:7-27) 1 Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers take counsel together, against Adonai , and against his Anointed, saying, 3 “Let’s break their bonds apart, and cast their cords from us.” 4 He who sits in the heavens will laugh. The Lord will have them in derision. 5 Then he will speak to them in his anger, and terrify them in his wrath: 6 “Yet I have set my King on my holy hill of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking].” 7 I will tell of the statute. Adonai said to me, “You are my son. Today I have become your father. 8 Ask of me, and I will give the nations for your inheritance, the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession. 9 You shall break them with a rod of iron. You shall dash them in pieces like pottery.” 10 Now therefore be wise, you kings. Be instructed, you judges of the earth. 11 Abad ·Serve· Adonai with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish on the way, for his wrath will soon be kindled. Blessed are all those who take refuge in him. Chapter 3A Psalm by David [Beloved], when he fled from Absalom [Father peace] his son. Context: Absalom [Father peace] conspires against David [Beloved] and wins the hearts of Israel [God prevails]. David [Beloved] flees to the Mount of Olives. (2 Sam 15:1-30) 1 Adonai , how my adversaries have increased! Many are those who rise up against me. 2 Many there are who say of my soul, “There is no yishu'ah ·salvation· for him in God.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude· 3 But you, Adonai , are a shield around me, my kavod ·weighty glory·, and the one who lifts up my head. 4 I cry to Adonai with my voice, and he answers me out of his holy hill. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude· 5 I laid myself down and slept. I awakened; for Adonai sustains me. 6 I will not be afraid of tens of thousands of people who have set themselves against me on every side. 7 Arise, Adonai ! Save me, my God! For you have struck all of my enemies on the cheek bone. You have broken the teeth of the wicked. 8 Yishu'ah ·Salvation· belongs to Adonai . Your blessing be on your people. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude· Chapter 4For the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] and the people with him cross the river Jordan [Descender] to Mahanaim [Two camps]. Absalom [Father peace] is actively trying to usurp his father, David [Beloved], as king. (2 Sam 15:1-30) 1 Answer me when I call, God of my righteousness. Give me relief from my distress. Have mercy on me, and sh'ma ·hear obey· my prayer. 2 You sons of men, how long shall my kavod ·weighty glory· be turned into dishonor? Will you 'ahav ·affectionately love· vanity, and seek after falsehood? Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude· 3 But know that Adonai has set apart for himself him who is godly: Adonai will sh'ma ·hear obey· when I call to him. 4 You can be angry, but don’t sin. Search your own heart on your bed, and be still. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude· 5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness. Put your trust in Adonai . 6 Many say, “Who will show us any good?” Adonai , let the light of your face shine on us. 7 You have put gladness in my heart, more than when their grain and their new wine are increased. 8 In peace I will both lay myself down and sleep, for you, Adonai alone, make me live in safety. Chapter 5For the Chief Musician, with the flutes. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] and the people with him cross the river Jordan [Descender] to Mahanaim [Two camps]. Absalom [Father peace] is actively trying to usurp his father, David [Beloved], as king. (2 Sam 17:22-29) 1 Give ear to my words, Adonai . Consider my meditation. 2 Listen to the voice of my cry, my King and my God; for to you do I pray. 3 Adonai , in the morning you shall sh'ma ·hear obey· my voice. In the morning I will lay my requests before you, and will watch expectantly. 4 For you are not a God who has pleasure in wickedness. Evil can’t live with you. 5 The arrogant shall not stand in your sight. You hate all workers of iniquity. 6 You will destroy those who speak lies. Adonai abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man. 7 But as for me, in the abundance of your cheshed ·loving-kindness· I will come into your house. I will hawa ·bow low, prostrate· toward your holy temple in reverence of you. 8 Lead me, Adonai , in your righteousness because of my enemies. Make your way straight before my face. 9 For there is no faithfulness in their mouth. Their heart is destruction. Their throat is an open tomb. They flatter with their tongue. 10 Hold them guilty, God. Let them fall by their own counsels; Thrust them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against you. 11 But let all those who take refuge in you rejoice, Let them always shout for joy, because you defend them. Let them also who 'ahav ·affectionately love· your name be joyful in you. 12 For you will bless the upright. Adonai , you will surround him with favor as with a shield. Chapter 6For the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments, upon the eight-stringed lyre. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] commits adultery with Bathsheba, wife of Uriah [My light Yah]. Later he experiences great remorse and repentance. (2 Sam 11-12) 1 Adonai , don’t rebuke me in your anger, neither discipline me in your wrath. 2 Have mercy on me, Adonai , for I am faint. Adonai , heal me, for my bones are troubled. 3 My soul is also in great anguish. But you, Adonai, how long? 4 Teshuvah ·Completely return·, Adonai . Deliver my soul, and save me for your cheshed ·loving-kindness’· sake. 5 For in death there is no memory of you. In Sheol ·Place of the dead·, who shall yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you? 6 I am weary with my groaning. Every night I flood my bed. I drench my couch with my tears. 7 My eye wastes away because of grief. It grows old because of all my adversaries. 8 Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity, for Adonai has sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the voice of my weeping. 9 Adonai has sh'ma ·heard obeyed· my supplication. Adonai accepts my prayer. 10 May all my enemies be ashamed and dismayed. They shall turn back, they shall be disgraced suddenly. Chapter 7A shiggayon ·meditative poem, musical instrument· by David [Beloved], which he sang to Adonai , concerning the words of Cush, the Benjamite. Context: King David [Beloved] arrives at Bahurim. Shimei, “a man of the family of the house of Saul [Asked for],” and son of Gera curses David [Beloved]. David [Beloved] reflects on the words of Cush of Benjamin [Son of right hand, Son of south]. (2 Sam 16:5-14) 1 Adonai , my God, I take refuge in you. Save me from all those who pursue me, and deliver me, 2 lest they tear apart my soul like a lion, ripping it in pieces, while there is no one to deliver. 3 Adonai , my God, if I have done this, if there is iniquity in my hands, 4 if I have rewarded evil to him who was at peace with me (yes, if I have delivered him who without cause was my adversary), 5 let the enemy pursue my soul, and overtake it; yes, let him tread my life down to the earth, and lay my glory in the dust. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 Arise, Adonai , in your anger. Lift up yourself against the rage of my adversaries. Awake for me. You have enjoined judgment. 7 Let the congregation of the peoples surround you. Rule over them on high. 8 Adonai administers judgment to the peoples. Judge me, Adonai , according to my righteousness, and to my integrity that is in me. 9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the upright; their minds and hearts are searched by the righteous God. 10 My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart. 11 God is a righteous judge, yes, a God who has indignation every day. 12 If a man does not relent, he will sharpen his sword; he has bent and strung his bow. 13 He has also prepared for himself the instruments of death. He makes ready his flaming arrows. 14 Behold, he travails with iniquity. Yes, he has conceived mischief, and brought out falsehood. 15 He has dug a hole, and has fallen into the pit which he made. 16 The trouble he causes shall teshuvah ·completely return· to his own head. His violence shall come down on the crown of his own head. 17 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai according to his righteousness, and will make zahmar ·musical praise· to the name of Adonai Most High. Chapter 8For the Chief Musician; on an instrument of Gath. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, David [Beloved] singing and playing, bringing the Spirit of peace, comfort, and guidance to King Saul [Asked for] when he was tormented by evil spirits. (1 Sam 16:14-23) 1 Adonai , our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth, who has set your glory above the heavens! 2 From the lips of babes and infants you have established strength, because of your adversaries, that you might silence the enemy and the avenger. 3 When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have ordained; 4 what is man, that you think of him? What is the son of man, that you care for him? 5 For you have made him a little lower than the angels, and crowned him with glory and honor. 6 You make him ruler over the works of your hands. You have put all things under his feet: 7 All sheep and cattle, yes, and the animals of the field, 8 The birds of the sky, the fish of the sea, and whatever passes through the paths of the seas. 9 Adonai , our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Chapter 9For the Chief Musician. Set to “The Death of the Son.” A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Psalm 9 to 10 is a broken Hebrew acrostic. Acrostic Psalm 1 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai with my whole heart. I will tell of all your marvelous works. 2 I will be glad and rejoice in you. I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to your name, O Most High. 3 When my enemies turn back, they stumble and perish in your presence. 4 For you have maintained my mishpat ·just· cause. You sit on the throne judging righteously. 5 You have rebuked the nations. You have destroyed the wicked. You have blotted out their name forever and ever. 6 The enemy is overtaken by endless ruin. The very memory of the cities which you have overthrown has perished. 7 But Adonai reigns forever. He has prepared his throne for judgment. 8 He will judge the world in righteousness. He will administer judgment to the peoples in uprightness. 9 Adonai will also be a high tower for the oppressed; a high tower in times of trouble. 10 Those who know your name will put their trust in you, for you, Adonai , have not forsaken those who seek you. 11 Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to Adonai , who dwells in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], and declare among the people what he has done. 12 For he who avenges blood remembers them. He does not forget the cry of the afflicted. 13 Have mercy on me, Adonai . See my affliction by those who hate me, and lift me up from the gates of death; 14 that I may show all of your tehilah ·praise song·. In the gates of the daughter of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], I will rejoice in your yishu'ah ·salvation·. 15 The nations have sunk down in the pit that they made. In the net which they hid, their own foot is taken. 16 Adonai has made himself known. He has executed judgment. The wicked is snared by the work of his own hands. Higgayon ·Meditation·. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 17 The wicked shall be turned back to Sheol ·Place of the dead·, even all the nations that forget God. 18 For the needy shall not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the poor perish forever. 19 Arise, Adonai ! Don’t let man prevail. Let the nations be judged in your sight. 20 Put them in fear, Adonai . Let the nations know that they are only men. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. Chapter 10Context: Psalm 9 to 10 is a broken Hebrew acrostic. Acrostic Psalm 1 Why do you stand far off, Adonai ? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? 2 In arrogance, the wicked hunt down the weak. They are caught in the schemes that they devise. 3 For the wicked boasts of his heart’s cravings. He blesses the greedy, and condemns Adonai . 4 The wicked, in the pride of his face, has no room in his thoughts for God. 5 His ways are prosperous at all times. He is haughty, and your judgments are far from his sight. As for all his adversaries, he sneers at them. 6 He says in his heart, “I shall not be shaken. For generations I shall have no trouble.” 7 His mouth is full of cursing, deceit, and oppression. Under his tongue is mischief and iniquity. 8 He lies in wait near the villages. From ambushes, he murders the innocent. His eyes are secretly set against the helpless. 9 He lurks in secret as a lion in his ambush. He lies in wait to catch the helpless. He catches the helpless, when he draws him in his net. 10 The helpless are crushed. They collapse. They fall under his strength. 11 He says in his heart, “God has forgotten. He hides his face. He will never see it.” 12 Arise, Adonai ! God, lift up your hand! Don’t forget the helpless. 13 Why does the wicked person condemn God, and say in his heart, “God won’t call me into account?” 14 But you do see trouble and grief. You consider it to take it into your hand. You help the victim and the fatherless. 15 Break the arm of the wicked. As for the evil man, seek out his wickedness until you find none. 16 Adonai is King forever and ever! The nations will perish out of his land. 17 Adonai , you have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the desire of the humble. You will prepare their heart. You will cause your ear to hear, 18 to judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that man who is of the earth may terrify no more. Chapter 11For the Chief Musician. By David [Beloved]. Context: Two attempts of Saul [Asked for] to take David’s life. Jonathan, a son of Saul [Asked for], saves David [Beloved] the first time. Michal, David’s wife, deceives Saul [Asked for] the second time while David [Beloved] flees to the company of Samuel at Naioth. The Spirit of God came upon the messengers which Saul [Asked for] sends to Naioth. (1 Sam 19) 1 In Adonai , I take refuge. How can you say to my soul, “Flee as a bird to your mountain!” 2 For, behold, the wicked bend their bows. They set their arrows on the strings, that they may shoot in darkness at the upright in heart. 3 If the foundations are destroyed, what can the upright do? 4 Adonai is in his holy temple. Adonai is on his throne in heaven. His eyes observe. His eyes examine the children of men. 5 Adonai examines the upright, but the wicked and him who 'ahav ·affectionately loves· violence his soul hates. 6 On the wicked he will rain blazing coals; fire, sulfur, and scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup. 7 For Adonai is righteous. He 'ahav ·affectionately loves· righteousness. The upright shall see his face. Chapter 12For the Chief Musician; upon an eight-stringed lyre. A Psalm of David [Beloved]. Context: After collecting Goliath [Exposer, Uncovered]’s sword and leaving the priests, David [Beloved] runs upon hearing the message about the priests being slaughtered. (1 Sam 22 (esp. 22:20-23)) 1 Help, Adonai ; for the godly man ceases. For the faithful fail from among the children of men. 2 Everyone lies to his neighbor. They speak with flattering lips, and with a double heart. 3 May Adonai cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that boasts, 4 who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail. Our lips are our own. Who is lord over us?” 5 “Because of the oppression of the weak and because of the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says Adonai ; “I will set him in yesha' ·salvation· far from those who malign him.” 6 Adonai ’s words are flawless words, as silver refined in a clay furnace, purified seven times. 7 You will keep them, Adonai . You will preserve them from this generation forever. 8 The wicked walk on every side, when what is vile is exalted among the sons of men. Chapter 13For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 How long, Adonai ? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart every day? How long shall my enemy triumph over me? 3 Behold, and answer me, Adonai , my God. Give light to my eyes, lest I sleep in death; 4 Lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed against him;” Lest my adversaries rejoice when I fall. 5 But I trust in your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. My heart rejoices in your yishu'ah ·salvation·. 6 I will sing to Adonai , because he has been good to me. Chapter 14For the Chief Musician. By David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, David [Beloved] meditates on Genesis 6:5-6. (Gen 6:5-6) 1 The fool has said in his heart, “There is no Elohim ·Deity, Judge· .” They are corrupt. They have done abominable deeds. There is no one who does good. 2 Adonai looked down from heaven on the children of men, to see if there were any who understood, who sought after God. 3 All have gone aside. They have together become corrupt. There is no one who does good, no, not one. 4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up my people as they eat bread, and don’t call on Adonai ? 5 There they were in great fear, for God is in the generation of the upright. 6 You frustrate the plan of the poor, because Adonai is his refuge. 7 Oh that the yishu'ah ·salvation· of Israel [God prevails] would come out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]! When Adonai restores the fortunes of his people, then Jacob [Supplanter] shall rejoice, and Israel [God prevails] shall be glad. Chapter 15A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, a Psalm written upon the return of the ark to Jerusalem [City of peace]. David [Beloved] meditates on the character of the person going to God’s Temple / Tabernacle. (2 Sam 6; 1 Chr 16) 1 Adonai , who shall dwell in your sanctuary? Who shall live on your holy hill? 2 He who walks blamelessly does what is right, and speaks truth in his heart; 3 He who does not slander with his tongue, nor does evil to his friend, nor casts slurs against his fellow man; 4 In whose eyes a vile man is despised, but who honors those who fear Adonai ; he who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change; 5 he who does not lend out his money for usury, nor take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be shaken. Chapter 16A Poem by David [Beloved]. Context: God makes covenant with David [Beloved] to establish his descendant. David [Beloved] is overwhelmed and grateful. (1 Chr 17:26-27) 1 Preserve me, God, for in you do I take refuge. 2 My soul, you have said to Adonai , “You are my Lord. Apart from you I have no good thing.” 3 As for the saints who are in the earth, they are the excellent ones in whom is all my delight. 4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied who give gifts to another deity. Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, nor take their names on my lips. 5 Adonai assigned my portion and my cup. You made my lot secure. 6 The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places. Yes, I have a good inheritance. 7 I will bless Adonai , who has given me counsel. Yes, my heart instructs me in the night seasons. 8 I always set Adonai before me. Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my kavod ·weighty glory· rejoices. My body shall also dwell in safety. 10 For you will not leave my soul in Sheol ·Place of the dead·, neither will you allow your holy one to see corruption. 11 You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy. In your right hand there are pleasures forever more. Chapter 17A Prayer by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] sneaks into Saul [Asked for]’s camp and collects Saul [Asked for]’s spear and water jug. David [Beloved] asks Saul [Asked for] to stop chasing him. (1 Sam 23:15-24:22) 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, Adonai , my righteous plea; Give ear to my prayer, that does not go out of deceitful lips. 2 Let my judgement come out of your presence. Let your eyes look on equity. 3 You have proved my heart. You have visited me in the night. You have tried me, and found nothing. I have resolved that my mouth shall not disobey. 4 As for the deeds of men, by the word of your lips, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent. 5 My steps have held fast to your paths. My feet have not slipped. 6 I have called on you, for you will answer me, God. Turn your ear to me. Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my speech. 7 Show your marvelous cheshed ·loving-kindness·, you who save those who take refuge by your right hand from their enemies. 8 Keep me as the apple of your eye. Hide me under the shadow of your wings, 9 from the wicked who oppress me, my deadly enemies, who surround me. 10 They close up their callous hearts. With their mouth they speak proudly. 11 They have now surrounded us in our steps. They set their eyes to cast us down to the earth. 12 He is like a lion that is greedy of his prey, as it were a young lion lurking in secret places. 13 Arise, Adonai , confront him. Cast him down. Deliver my soul from the wicked by your sword; 14 from men by your hand, Adonai , from men of the world, whose portion is in this life. You fill the belly of your cherished ones. Your sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children. 15 As for me, I shall see your face in righteousness. I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with seeing your form. Chapter 18For the Chief Musician. By David [Beloved] the servant of Adonai , who spoke to Adonai the words of this song in the day that Adonai delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul [Asked for]. He said... Context: David’s song of thankfulness and praise to Yahweh for delivering him from all his enemies and from Saul [Asked for]. (2 Sam 22) 1 I will racham ·compassionately love, mercifully love· you, Adonai , my strength. 2 Adonai is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield, and the horn of my yesha' ·salvation·, my high tower. 3 I call on Adonai , who is worthy to be praised; and I am saved from my enemies. 4 The cords of death surrounded me. The floods of ungodliness made me afraid. 5 The cords of Sheol ·Place of the dead· were around me. The snares of death came on me. 6 In my distress I called on Adonai , and cried to my God. He sh'ma ·heard obeyed· my voice out of his temple. My cry before him came into his ears. 7 Then the earth shook and trembled. The foundations also of the mountains quaked and were shaken, because he was angry. 8 Smoke went out of his nostrils. Consuming fire came out of his mouth. Coals were kindled by it. 9 He bowed the heavens also, and came down. Thick darkness was under his feet. 10 He rode on a cherub, and flew. Yes, he soared on the wings of the wind. 11 He made darkness his hiding place, his pavilion around him, darkness of waters, thick clouds of the skies. 12 At the brightness before him his thick clouds passed, hailstones and coals of fire. 13 Adonai also thundered in the sky. The Most High uttered his voice: hailstones and coals of fire. 14 He sent out his arrows, and scattered them; Yes, great lightning bolts, and routed them. 15 Then the channels of waters appeared. The foundations of the world were laid bare at your rebuke, Adonai , at the blast of the breath of your nostrils. 16 He sent from on high. He took me. He drew me out of many waters. 17 He delivered me from my strong enemy, from those who hated me; for they were too mighty for me. 18 They came on me in the day of my calamity, but Adonai was my support. 19 He brought me out also into a large place. He delivered me, because he delighted in me. 20 Adonai has rewarded me according to my righteousness. According to the cleanness of my hands has he recompensed me. 21 For I have kept the ways of Adonai , and have not wickedly departed from my God. 22 For all his judgments were before me. I didn’t put away his regulations from me. 23 I was also blameless with him. I kept myself from my iniquity. 24 Therefore Adonai has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight. 25 With the merciful you will show yourself merciful. With the perfect man, you will show yourself perfect. 26 With the pure, you will show yourself pure. With the crooked you will show yourself shrewd. 27 For you will save the afflicted people, but the haughty eyes you will bring down. 28 For you will light my lamp, Adonai . My God will light up my darkness. 29 For by you, I advance through a troop. By my God, I leap over a wall. 30 As for God, his way is perfect. Adonai ’s word is tried. He is a shield to all those who take refuge in him. 31 For who is God, except Adonai ? Who is a rock, besides our God, 32 the God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect? 33 He makes my feet like deer’s feet, and sets me on my high places. 34 He teaches my hands to war, so that my arms bend a bow of bronze. 35 You have also given me the shield of your yesha' ·salvation·. Your right hand sustains me. Your gentleness has made me great. 36 You have enlarged my steps under me, My feet have not slipped. 37 I will pursue my enemies, and overtake them. Neither will I turn again until they are consumed. 38 I will strike them through, so that they will not be able to rise. They shall fall under my feet. 39 For you have armed me with strength to the battle. You have subdued under me those who rose up against me. 40 You have also made my enemies turn their backs to me, that I might cut off those who hate me. 41 They cried, but there was no one to save; even to Adonai , but he didn’t answer them. 42 Then I beat them small as the dust before the wind. I cast them out as the mire of the streets. 43 You have delivered me from the strivings of the people. You have made me the head of the nations. A people whom I have not known shall serve me. 44 As soon as they hear of me they shall sh'ma ·hear obey· me. The foreigners shall submit themselves to me. 45 The foreigners shall fade away, and shall come trembling out of their close places. 46 Adonai lives; and blessed be my rock. Exalted be the God of my yesha' ·salvation·, 47 even the God who executes vengeance for me, and subdues peoples under me. 48 He rescues me from my enemies. Yes, you lift me up above those who rise up against me. You deliver me from the violent man. 49 Therefore I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, Adonai , among the nations, and will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to your name. 50 He gives great yishu'ah ·deliverance· to his king, and shows cheshed ·loving-kindness· to his anointed, to David [Beloved] and to his offspring, forever more. Chapter 19For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, David [Beloved] meditates on Job 38:1-12. (Job 38:1-12) 1 The heavens declare the kavod ·weighty glory· of God. The expanse shows his handiwork. 2 Day after day they pour out speech, and night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not sh'ma ·heard obeyed·. 4 Their voice has gone out through all the earth, their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, 5 which is as a bridegroom coming out of his room, like a strong man rejoicing to run his course. 6 His going out is from the end of the heavens, his circuit to its ends; There is nothing hidden from its heat. 7 Adonai ’s Torah ·Teaching· is perfect, restoring the soul. Adonai ’s testimony is sure, making wise the simple. 8 Adonai ’s precepts are right, rejoicing the heart. Adonai ’s mitzvah ·instruction· is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of Adonai is clean, enduring forever. Adonai ’s judgments are true, and upright altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the extract of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them is your servant warned. In keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can discern his errors? Forgive me from hidden errors. 13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins. Let them not have dominion over me. Then I will be upright. I will be blameless and innocent of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the higgayon ·meditation· of my heart be acceptable in your sight, Adonai , my rock, and my redeemer. Chapter 20For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, King David [Beloved] honors the death of a foreign King. His intentions are misunderstood and Israel [God prevails] fights in a war of miscommunication. (2 Sam 10) 1 May Adonai answer you in the day of trouble. May the name of the God of Jacob [Supplanter] set you up on high, 2 send you help from the sanctuary, grant you support from Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], 3 remember all your offerings, and accept your burned sacrifice. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 May He grant you your heart’s desire, and fulfill all your counsel. 5 We will triumph in your yishu'ah ·salvation·. In the name of our God, we will set up our banners. May Adonai grant all your requests. 6 Now I know that Adonai saves his anointed. He will answer him from his holy heaven, with the yesha' ·saving· strength of his right hand. 7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust the name of Yahweh Eloheikhem [Yahweh our God]. 8 They are bowed down and fallen, but we rise up, and stand upright. 9 Save, Adonai ! Let the King answer us when we call! Chapter 21For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, King David [Beloved] honors the death of a foreign King. His intentions are misunderstood and Israel [God prevails] fights in a war of miscommunication. (2 Sam 10) 1 The King (Messiah [Anointed one]) rejoices in your strength, Adonai ! How greatly he rejoices in your yishu'ah ·salvation·! 2 You have given him his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 3 For you meet him with the blessings of goodness. You set a crown of fine gold on his head. 4 He asked life of you, you gave it to him, even length of days forever and ever. 5 His kavod ·weighty glory· is great in your yishu'ah ·salvation·. You lay honor and majesty on him. 6 For you make him most blessed forever. You make him glad with joy in your presence. 7 For the king trusts in Adonai . Through the cheshed ·loving-kindness· of haElyon [the Most High], he shall not be moved. 8 Your hand will find out all of your enemies. Your right hand will find out those who hate you. 9 You will make them as a fiery furnace in the time of your anger. Adonai will swallow them up in his wrath. The fire shall devour them. 10 You will destroy their descendants from the earth, their posterity from among the children of men. 11 For they intended evil against you. They plotted evil against you which cannot succeed. 12 For you will make them turn their back, when you aim drawn bows at their face. 13 Be exalted, Adonai , in your strength, so we will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to your power. Chapter 22For the Chief Musician; set to “The Doe of the Morning.” A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Saul [Asked for] tries multiple times to spear David [Beloved] to death. Saul [Asked for] sends soldiers to pierce David [Beloved] to his bed. David [Beloved] threatens to murder his own wife, Saul [Asked for]’s daughter, if she does not let him flee from Saul [Asked for] to save his own life. In this emotional state, David [Beloved] might have written this Psalm. (1 Sam 19:1-18) Future Context: Yeshua quotes this Psalm, which is to reference its entirety, while hanging on the cross. (Matt 27:46) 1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from yishu'ah ·delivering· me, and from the words of my groaning? 2 My God, I cry in the daytime, but you don’t answer; in the night season, and am not silent. 3 But you are holy, you who inhabit the tehilahot ·praise songs· of Israel [God prevails]. 4 Our fathers trusted in you. They trusted, and you delivered them. 5 They cried to you, and were delivered. They trusted in you, and were not disappointed. 6 But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised by the people. 7 All who see me jeer at me. They insult me and shake their heads: 8 “He trusts in Adonai ; so let him set him free! Let him rescue him, since he delights in him.” 9 But you brought me out of the womb. You made me trust while at my mother’s breasts. 10 I was thrown on you from my mother’s womb. You are my God since my mother bore me. 11 Don’t be far from me, for trouble is near. For there is no one to help. 12 Many bulls have surrounded me. Strong bulls of Bashan have encircled me. 13 They open their mouths wide against me, lions tearing prey and roaring. 14 I am poured out like water. All my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax; it is melted within me. 15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have brought me into the dust of death. 16 For dogs have surrounded me. A company of villains have enclosed me. They have pierced my hands and feet. 17 I can count all of my bones. They look and stare at me. 18 They divide my garments among them. They cast lots for my clothing. 19 But don’t be far off, Adonai . You are my help: hurry to help me. 20 Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog. 21 Save me from the lion’s mouth! Yes, from the horns of the wild oxen, you have answered me. 22 I will declare your name to my brothers. Among the assembly, I will praise you. 23 You who fear Adonai , praise him! All you descendants of Jacob [Supplanter], glorify him! Stand in awe of him, all you descendants of Israel [God prevails]! 24 For he has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, Neither has he hidden his face from him; but when he cried to him, he sh'ma ·heard obeyed·. 25 Of you comes my tehilah ·praise song· in the great assembly. I will pay my vows before those who fear him. 26 The humble shall eat and be satisfied. They shall praise Adonai who seek after him. Let your hearts live forever. 27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to Adonai . All the relatives of the nations shall hawa ·bow low, prostrate· to worship before you. 28 For the kingdom is Adonai ’s. He is the ruler over the nations. 29 All the rich ones of the earth shall eat and worship. All those who go down to the dust shall bow before him, even he who can’t keep his soul alive. 30 Posterity shall serve him. Future generations shall be told about the Lord. 31 They shall come and shall declare his righteousness to a people that shall be born, for he has done it. Chapter 23A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: References cite that David [Beloved] grew up as a shepard. This is his personal experience related to his understanding of God as a Shepard. (1 Sam 16:11, 17:34-37; 2 Sam 7:8) 1 Adonai is my Ro'i [Shepherd Provider]: I shall lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and cheshed ·loving-kindness· shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Adonai ’s house forever. Chapter 24A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possibly, the ark returning to Jerusalem [City of peace]. Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on First Day in the Temple. The concluding verses (24:9-10) are sang at New Years along with Psalm 81. (2 Sam 6; 1 Chr 16) 1 The earth is Adonai ’s, with its fullness; the world, and those who dwell therein. 2 For he has founded it on the seas, and established it on the floods. 3 Who may ascend to Adonai ’s hill? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart; who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive a blessing from Adonai , righteousness from the God of his yesha' ·salvation·. 6 This is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek your face— even Jacob [Supplanter]. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 7 Lift up your heads, you gates! Be lifted up, you everlasting doors, and the Melek haKavod [King of Weighty glory] will come in. 8 Who is the Melek haKavod [King of Weighty glory]? Adonai strong and mighty, Adonai mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, you gates; yes, lift them up, you everlasting doors, and the Melek haKavod [King of Weighty glory] will come in. 10 Who is this Melek haKavod [King of Glory]? Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies] is the Melek haKavod [King of Glory]! Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. Chapter 25By David [Beloved]. Context: Possibly, David [Beloved] recognizes his sin, is convicted, takes responsibility, repentance, and produces change. (2 Sam 11:26-12:25) Context: Possibly, where David [Beloved] is trusting and honoring God by recognizing His choice of Saul [Asked for] as king, even when it hurts. (1 Sam 26) Acrostic Psalm 1 To you, Adonai , do I lift up my soul. 2 My God, I have trusted in you. Don’t let me be shamed. Don’t let my enemies triumph over me. 3 Yes, no one who waits for you shall be shamed. They shall be shamed who deal treacherously without cause. 4 Show me your ways, Adonai . Teach me your paths. 5 Guide me in your truth, and teach me, For you are the God of my yesha' ·salvation·, I wait for you all day long. 6 Adonai , remember your tender racham ·merciful love· and your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for they are from old times. 7 Don’t remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions. Remember me according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for your goodness’ sake, Adonai . 8 Good and upright is Adonai , therefore he will instruct sinners in the way. 9 He will guide the humble in mishpat ·justice·. He will teach the humble his way. 10 All the paths of Adonai are cheshed ·loving-kindness· and truth to such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. 11 For your name’s sake, Adonai , pardon my iniquity, for it is great. 12 What man is he who fears Adonai ? He shall instruct him in the way that he shall choose. 13 His soul shall dwell at ease. His offspring shall inherit the land. 14 The friendship of Adonai is with those who fear him. He will show them his covenant. 15 My eyes are ever on Adonai , for he will pluck my feet out of the net. 16 Turn to me, and have mercy on me, for I am desolate and afflicted. 17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged. Oh bring me out of my distresses. 18 Consider my affliction and my travail. Forgive all my sins. 19 Consider my enemies, for they are many. They hate me with cruel hatred. 20 Oh keep my soul, and deliver me. Let me not be disappointed, for I take refuge in you. 21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you. 22 Redeem Israel [God prevails], God, out all of his troubles. Chapter 26By David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] flees from Absolom [My father peace]. (1 Chr 15-17) 1 Judge me, Adonai , for I have walked in my integrity. I have trusted also in Adonai without wavering. 2 Examine me, Adonai , and prove me. Try my heart and my mind. 3 For your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is before my eyes. I have walked in your truth. 4 I have not sat with deceitful men, neither will I go in with hypocrites. 5 I hate the assembly of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked. 6 I will wash my hands in innocence, so I will go about your altar, Adonai ; 7 that I may make the voice of thanksgiving to be sh'ma ·heard obeyed·, and tell of all your wondrous deeds. 8 Adonai , I 'ahav ·affectionately love· the habitation of your house, the place where your kavod ·weighty glory· dwells. 9 Don’t gather my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloodthirsty men; 10 in whose hands is wickedness, their right hand is full of bribes. 11 But as for me, I will walk in my integrity. Redeem me, and be merciful to me. 12 My foot stands in an even place. In the congregations I will bless Adonai . Chapter 27By David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] flees from Absolom [My father peace]. (1 Chr 15-17) 1 Adonai is my light and my yesha' ·salvation·. Whom shall I fear? Adonai is the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evildoers came at me to eat up my flesh, even my adversaries and my foes, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though an army should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear. Though war should rise against me, even then I will be confident. 4 One thing I have asked of Adonai , that I will seek after, that I may dwell in Adonai ’s house all the days of my life, to see Adonai ’s beauty, and to inquire in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me secretly in his pavilion. In the covert of his tabernacle he will hide me. He will lift me up on a rock. 6 Now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me. I will offer sacrifices of joy in his tent. I will sing, yes, I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to Adonai . 7 Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, Adonai , when I cry with my voice. Have mercy also on me, and answer me. 8 When you said, “Seek my face,” my heart said to you, “I will seek your face, Adonai .” 9 Don’t hide your face from me. Don’t put your servant away in anger. You have been my help. Don’t abandon me, neither forsake me, God of my yesha' ·salvation·. 10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then Adonai will take me up. 11 Teach me your way, Adonai . Lead me in a straight path, because of my enemies. 12 Don’t deliver me over to the desire of my adversaries, for false witnesses have risen up against me, such as breathe out cruelty. 13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of Adonai in the land of the living. 14 Wait for Adonai . Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for Adonai . Chapter 28By David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] flees from Absolom [My father peace]. (1 Chr 15-17) 1 To you, Adonai , I call. My rock, don’t be deaf to me; lest, if you are silent to me, I would become like those who go down into the pit (of Abbadon, the unrighteous side of Sheol). 2 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· the voice of my petitions, when I cry to you, when I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place. 3 Don’t draw me away with the wicked, with the workers of iniquity who speak peace with their neighbors, but mischief is in their hearts. 4 Give them according to their work, and according to the wickedness of their doings. Give them according to the operation of their hands. Bring back on them what they deserve. 5 Because they don’t respect the works of Adonai , nor the operation of his hands, he will break them down and not build them up. 6 Blessed be Adonai , because he has sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the voice of my petitions. 7 Adonai is my strength and my shield. My heart has trusted in him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart greatly rejoices. With my song I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to him. 8 Adonai is their strength. He is a stronghold of yishu'ah ·salvation· to his anointed. 9 Save your people, and bless your inheritance. Be their shepherd also, and bear them up forever. Chapter 29A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: 2 Sam 6 Possibly, celebrating God’s magnificent power while the Ark of Covenant returns. (2 Sam 6:2-5) 1 Ascribe to Adonai , you sons of the mighty, ascribe to Adonai kavod ·weighty glory· and strength. 2 Ascribe to Adonai the kavod ·weighty glory· due to his name. Hawa ·Bow low, prostrate· to worship Adonai in holy array. 3 Adonai ’s voice is on the waters. The God of kavod ·weighty glory· thunders, even Adonai on many waters. 4 Adonai ’s voice is powerful. Adonai ’s voice is full of majesty. 5 Adonai ’s voice breaks the cedars. Yes, Adonai breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon. 6 He makes them also to skip like a calf; Lebanon and Sirion like a young, wild ox. 7 Adonai ’s voice strikes with flashes of lightning. 8 Adonai ’s voice shakes the wilderness. Adonai shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. 9 Adonai ’s voice makes the deer calve, and strips the forests bare. In his temple everything says, “Kavod ·Weighty glory·!” 10 Adonai sat enthroned at the Flood. Yes, Adonai sits as King forever. 11 Adonai will give strength to his people. Adonai will bless his people with peace. Chapter 30A Psalm. A Song for the Dedication of the Temple. By David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] blesses his own house, God blesses David’s house. Sung during the offering of the First Fruits, a Feast during Passover week on First day. (1 Chr 16:43-17:15) 1 I will extol you, Adonai , for you have raised me up, and have not made my foes to rejoice over me. 2 Adonai my God, I cried to you, and you have healed me. 3 Adonai , you have brought up my soul from Sheol ·Place of the dead·. You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit (of Abbadon, the unrighteous side of Sheol). 4 Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to Adonai , you saints of his. Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to his holy name. 5 For his anger is but for a moment. His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may stay for the night, but joy comes in the morning. 6 As for me, I said in my prosperity, “I shall never be moved.” 7 You, Adonai , when you favored me, made my mountain stand strong; but when you hid your face, I was troubled. 8 I cried to you, Adonai . I made supplication to the Lord: 9 “What profit is there in my destruction, if I go down to the pit? Shall the dust yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you? Shall it declare your truth? 10 Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, Adonai , and have mercy on me. Adonai , be my helper.” 11 You have turned my mourning into dancing for me. You have removed my sackcloth, and clothed me with gladness, 12 To the end that my kavod ·weighty glory· may sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you, and not be silent. Adonai my God, I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you forever! Chapter 31For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] fleeing from king Saul [Asked for], takes refuge in Israel’s enemy nation. King Saul [Asked for] continues to pursue David [Beloved]. Some people are compromising David’s safety. (1 Sam 23 (esp 23:12)) 1 In you, Adonai , I take refuge. Let me never be disappointed. Deliver me in your righteousness. 2 Bow down your ear to me. Deliver me speedily. Be to me a strong rock, a house of defense to save me. 3 For you are my rock and my fortress, therefore for your name’s sake lead me and guide me. 4 Pluck me out of the net that they have laid secretly for me, for you are my stronghold. 5 Into your hand I commit my spirit. You redeem me, Adonai , God of truth. 6 I hate those who regard lying vanities, but I trust in Adonai . 7 I will be glad and rejoice in your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for you have seen my affliction. You have known my soul in adversities. 8 You have not shut me up into the hand of the enemy. You have set my feet in a large place. 9 Have mercy on me, Adonai , for I am in distress. My eye, my soul, and my body waste away with grief. 10 For my life is spent with sorrow, my years with sighing. My strength fails because of my iniquity. My bones are wasted away. 11 Because of all my adversaries I have become utterly contemptible to my neighbors, A fear to my acquaintances. Those who saw me on the street fled from me. 12 I am forgotten from their hearts like a dead man. I am like broken pottery. 13 For I have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the slander of many, terror on every side, while they conspire together against me, they plot to take away my life. 14 But I trust in you, Adonai . I said, “You are my God.” 15 My times are in your hand. Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me. 16 Make your face to shine on your servant. Save me in your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. 17 Let me not be disappointed, Adonai , for I have called on you. Let the wicked be disappointed. Let them be silent in Sheol ·Place of the dead·. 18 Let the lying lips be mute, which speak against the upright insolently, with pride and contempt. 19 Oh how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who fear you, which you have worked for those who take refuge in you, before the sons of men! 20 In the shelter of your presence you will hide them from the plotting of man. You will keep them secretly in a dwelling away from the strife of tongues. 21 Praise be to Adonai , for he has shown me his marvelous cheshed ·loving-kindness· in a strong city. 22 As for me, I said in my haste, “I am cut off from before your eyes.” Nevertheless you sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the voice of my petitions when I cried to you. 23 Oh 'ahav ·affectionately love· Adonai , all you his saints! Adonai preserves the faithful, and fully recompenses him who behaves arrogantly. 24 Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in Adonai . Chapter 32By David [Beloved]. A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm·. Context: The praises of a man who has been forgiven a great deal and experiences God’s time of comfort in his repentance. Reference is David’s conviction of sin and his immediate recognition and ongoing repentance to times of comfort and peace. (2 Sam 12:12-25) 1 Blessed is he whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man to whom Adonai does not impute iniquity, in whose spirit there is no deceit. 3 When I kept silence, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy on me. My strength was sapped in the heat of summer. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 I acknowledged my sin to you. I didn’t hide my iniquity. I said, I will yadah ·extend hands in confession· of my transgressions to Adonai , and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 For this, let everyone who is godly pray to you in a time when you may be found. Surely when the great waters overflow, they shall not reach to him. 7 You are my hiding place. You will preserve me from trouble. You will surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you shall go. I will counsel you with my eye on you. 9 Don’t be like the horse, or like the mule, which have no understanding, who are controlled by bit and bridle, or else they will not come near to you. 10 Many sorrows come to the wicked, but cheshed ·loving-kindness· shall surround him who trusts in Adonai . 11 Be glad in Adonai , and rejoice, you upright! Shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart! Chapter 33Context: God alone can command order from chaos. This is evident in God’s authority to create yet that which is created attempts to overthrow the Creator’s plan. Reference to Noah’s day, the tower of Bavel, and Philistines [To roll in dust (As an insult)] planning to attach newly anointed King David [Beloved]. Some seek God for His wisdom, others fail in their futile minds set against Creator God. (Gen 1:1-4, 3:20-24, 6:5-8, 11:1-9; 2 Sam 5:1-12, 5:17-21) 1 Rejoice in Adonai , you upright! Tehilah ·Praise song· is fitting for the upright. 2 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai with the lyre. Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to him with the harp of ten strings. 3 Sing to him a new song. Play skillfully with a shout of joy! 4 For Adonai ’s word is right. All his work is done in faithfulness. 5 He 'ahav ·affectionately loves· righteousness and mishpat ·justice·. The earth is full of the cheshed ·loving-kindness· of Adonai . 6 By Adonai ’s word, the heavens were made; all their army by the breath of his mouth. 7 He gathers the waters of the sea together as a heap. He lays up the deeps in storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear Adonai . Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. 9 For he spoke, and it was done. He enjoined, and it stood firm. 10 Adonai brings the counsel of the nations to nothing. He makes the thoughts of the peoples to be of no effect. 11 The counsel of Adonai stands fast forever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. 12 Blessed is the nation whose God is Adonai , the people whom he has chosen for his own inheritance. 13 Adonai looks from heaven. He sees all the sons of men. 14 From the place of his habitation he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, 15 he who fashions all of their hearts; and he considers all of their works. 16 There is no king saved by the multitude of an army. A mighty man is not delivered by great strength. 17 A horse is a vain thing for safety, neither does he deliver any by his great power. 18 Behold, Adonai ’s eye is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his loving kindness; 19 to deliver their soul from death, to keep them alive in famine. 20 Our soul has waited for Adonai . He is our help and our shield. 21 For our heart rejoices in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. 22 Let your loving kindness be on us, Adonai , since we have hoped in you. Chapter 34By David [Beloved]; when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech [My father king], who divorced him, drove him away, and thus he departed. Context: When David [Beloved] pretended to be insane to prevent his capture. (2 Sam 21:10-15) Acrostic Psalm 1 I will bless Adonai at all times. His tehilah ·praise song· will always be in my mouth. 2 My soul shall boast in Adonai . The humble shall sh'ma ·hear obey· it, and be glad. 3 Oh magnify Adonai with me. Let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought Adonai , and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. 5 They looked to him, and were radiant. Their faces shall never be covered with shame. 6 This poor man cried, and Adonai sh'ma ·heard obeyed· him, and saved him out of all his troubles. 7 Ha mal'ak Yahweh [The Angel of He sustains breathing] encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. 8 Oh taste and see that Adonai is good. Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. 9 Oh fear Adonai , you his saints, for there is no lack with those who fear him. 10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger, but those who seek Adonai shall not lack any good thing. 11 Come, you children, sh'ma ·hear obey· unto me. I will teach you the fear of Adonai . 12 Who of you takes pleasure in living? Who 'ahav ·affectionately loves· a long life to see good things? 13 [If you do], keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from deceiving talk; 14 turn from evil, and do good. Seek peace, and fervently pursue it! 15 For Adonai ’s eyes are toward the upright. His ears listen to their prayers. 16 But Adonai ’s face is against those who do evil, to cut off their memory from the earth. 17 The upright cry, and Adonai sh'ma ·hears obeys·, and delivers them out of all their troubles. 18 Adonai is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but Adonai delivers him out of them all. 20 He protects all of his bones. Not one of them is broken. 21 Evil shall kill the wicked. Those who hate the upright shall be condemned. 22 Adonai redeems the soul of his servants. None of those who take refuge in him shall be condemned. Chapter 35By David [Beloved]. Context: Possibly, when King Saul [Asked for] questions the loyalty of the Levites [Descendants of United with] in regards to David [Beloved] fleeing Saul [Asked for]. (1 Sam 22:19 (Context 22:6-23)) 1 Contend, Adonai , with those who contend with me. Fight against those who fight against me. 2 Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for my help. 3 Brandish the spear and block those who pursue me. Tell my soul, “I am your salvation.” 4 Let those who seek after my soul be disappointed and brought to dishonor. Let those who plot my ruin be turned back and confounded. 5 Let them be as chaff before the wind, Ha mal'ak Yahweh [The Angel of He sustains breathing] driving them on. 6 Let their way be dark and slippery, Adonai ’s angel pursuing them. 7 For without cause they have hidden their net in a pit for me. Without cause they have dug a pit for my soul. 8 Let destruction come on him unawares. Let his net that he has hidden catch himself. Let him fall into that destruction. 9 My soul shall be joyful in Adonai . It shall rejoice in his yishu'ah ·salvation·. 10 All my bones shall say, “Adonai , who is like you, who delivers the poor from him who is too strong for him; yes, the poor and the needy from him who robs him?” 11 Malicious witnesses come forward. They ask me about things about which I know nothing. 12 They reward me evil for good, to the bereaving of my soul. 13 But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth. I afflicted my soul with fasting. My prayer teshuvah ·completely returned· into my own bosom. 14 I behaved myself as though it had been my friend or my brother. I bowed down mourning, as one who mourns his mother. 15 But in my adversity, they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together. The attackers gathered themselves together against me, and I didn’t know it. They tore at me, and didn’t cease. 16 Like the profane mockers in feasts, they gnashed their teeth at me. 17 Lord, how long will you look on? Rescue my soul from their destruction, my precious life from the lions. 18 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you in the great assembly. I will praise you among many people. 19 Don’t let those who are my enemies wrongfully rejoice over me; neither let those who hate me without a cause wink their eyes. 20 For they don’t speak peace, but they devise deceitful words against those who are quiet in the land. 21 Yes, they opened their mouth wide against me. They said, “Aha! Aha! Our eye has seen it!” 22 You have seen it, Adonai . Don’t keep silent. Lord, don’t be far from me. 23 Wake up! Rise up to my mishpat ·justice· me, my God! My Lord, contend for me! 24 Vindicate me, Adonai my God, according to your righteousness. Don’t let them gloat over me. 25 Don’t let them say in their heart, “Aha! That’s the way we want it!” Don’t let them say, “We have swallowed him up!” 26 Let them be disappointed and confounded together who rejoice at my calamity. Let them be clothed with shame and dishonor who magnify themselves against me. 27 Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my upright cause. Yes, let them say continually, “Adonai be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of his servant!” 28 My tongue shall talk about your righteousness and about your tehilah ·praise song· all day long. Chapter 36For the Chief Musician. By David [Beloved], the servant of Adonai . 1 An inner sanctuary is within my heart about the disobedience of the wicked: “There is no fear of Elohim ·God, Judge· before his eyes.” 2 For he flatters himself in his own eyes, too much to detect and hate his sin. 3 The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit. He has ceased to be wise and to do good. 4 He plots iniquity on his bed. He sets himself in a way that is not good. He does not abhor evil. 5 Your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, Adonai , is in the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 6 Your righteousness is like the mountains of God. Your judgments are like a great deep. Adonai , you preserve man and animal. 7 How precious is your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, God! The children of men take refuge under the shadow of your wings. 8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the abundance of your house. You will make them drink of the river of your pleasures. 9 For with you is the spring of life. In your light shall we see light. 10 Oh continue your cheshed ·loving-kindness· to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 Don’t let the foot of pride come against me. Don’t let the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12 There the workers of iniquity are fallen. They are thrust down, and shall not be able to rise. Chapter 37By David [Beloved]. Context: Reflection on life, towards the end of David’s life. (2 Sam 23:1-7) Acrostic Psalm 1 Don’t fret because of evildoers, neither be envious against those who work unrighteousness. 2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither like the green herb. 3 Trust in Adonai , and do good. Dwell in the land, and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Also delight yourself in Adonai , and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to Adonai . Trust also in him, and he will do this: 6 he will make your righteousness go out as the light, and your mishpat ·justice· as the noonday sun. 7 Rest in Adonai , and wait patiently for him. Don’t fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who makes wicked plots happen. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath. Don’t fret, it leads only to evildoing. 9 For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for Adonai shall inherit the land. 10 For yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more. Yes, though you look for his place, he is not there. 11 But the humble shall inherit the land, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. 12 The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth. 13 The Lord will laugh at him, for he sees that his day is coming. 14 The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, to kill those who are upright on the path. 15 Their sword shall enter into their own heart. Their bows shall be broken. 16 Better is a little that the upright has, than the abundance of many wicked. 17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but Adonai upholds the upright. 18 Adonai knows the days of the perfect. Their inheritance shall be forever. 19 They shall not be disappointed in the time of evil. In the days of famine they shall be satisfied. 20 But the wicked shall perish. The enemies of Adonai shall be like the beauty of the fields. They will vanish— vanish like smoke. 21 The wicked borrow, and don’t pay back, but the upright give generously. 22 For such as are blessed by him shall inherit the land. Those who are cursed by him shall be cut off. 23 A man’s goings are established by Adonai . He delights in his way. 24 Though he stumble, he shall not fall, for Adonai holds him up with his hand. 25 I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the upright forsaken, nor his children begging for bread. 26 All day long he deals graciously, and lends. His offspring is blessed. 27 Depart from evil, and do good. Live securely forever. 28 For Adonai 'ahav ·affectionately loves· mishpat ·justice·, and does not forsake his saints. They are preserved forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off. 29 The upright shall inherit the land, and live in it forever. 30 The mouth of the upright talks of wisdom. His tongue speaks mishpat ·justice·. 31 The Torah ·Teaching· of his God is in his heart. None of his steps shall slide. 32 The wicked watches the upright, and seeks to kill him. 33 Adonai will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. 34 Wait for Adonai , and keep his way, and he will exalt you to inherit the land. When the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. 35 I have seen the wicked in great power, spreading himself like a green tree in its native soil. 36 But he passed away, and behold, he was not. Yes, I sought him, but he could not be found. 37 Mark the perfect man, and see the upright, for there is a future for the man of peace. 38 As for transgressors, they shall be destroyed together. The future of the wicked shall be cut off. 39 But the salvation of the upright is from Adonai . He is their stronghold in the time of trouble. 40 Adonai helps them, and rescues them. He rescues them from the wicked, and saves them, Because they have taken refuge in him. Chapter 38A Psalm by David [Beloved], for a memorial. Context: David [Beloved] is feeble and old; his passive actions are confronted when Absalom [Father peace] attempts to usurp Solomon as King. (1 Kings 1 (esp 1:1-6)) 1 Adonai , don’t rebuke me in your wrath, neither chasten me in your hot displeasure. 2 For your arrows have pierced me, your hand presses hard on me. 3 There is no soundness in my flesh because of your indignation, neither is there any health in my bones because of my sin. 4 For my iniquities have gone over my head. As a heavy burden, they are too heavy for me. 5 My wounds are loathsome and corrupt, because of my foolishness. 6 I am pained and bowed down greatly. I go mourning all day long. 7 For my waist is filled with burning. There is no soundness in my flesh. 8 I am faint and severely bruised. I have groaned by reason of the anguish of my heart. 9 Lord, all my desire is before you. My groaning is not hidden from you. 10 My heart throbs. My strength fails me. As for the light of my eyes, it has also left me. 11 My 'ahav ·affectionate lovers· and my friends stand aloof from my plague. My kinsmen stand far away. 12 They also who seek after my life lay snares. Those who seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and meditate deceits all day long. 13 But I, as a deaf man, don’t sh'ma ·hear obey·. I am as a mute man who does not open his mouth. 14 Yes, I am as a man who does not sh'ma ·hear obey·, in whose mouth are no reproofs. 15 For in you, Adonai , do I hope. You will answer, Lord my God. 16 For I said, “Don’t let them gloat over me, or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips.” 17 For I am ready to fall. My pain is continually before me. 18 For I will declare my iniquity. I will be sorry for my sin. 19 But my enemies are vigorous and many. Those who hate me without reason are numerous. 20 They who also render evil for good are adversaries to me, because I follow what is good. 21 Don’t forsake me, Adonai . My God, don’t be far from me. 22 Hurry to help me, Lord, my salvation. Chapter 39For the Chief Musician. For Jeduthun. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 I said, “I will watch my ways, so that I don’t sin with my tongue. I will keep my mouth with a bridle while the wicked is before me.” 2 I was mute with silence. I held my peace, even from good. My sorrow was stirred. 3 My heart was hot within me. While I meditated, the fire burned: I spoke with my tongue: 4 “Adonai , show me my end, what is the measure of my days. Let me know how frail I am. 5 Behold, you have made my days hand widths. My lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely every man stands as a breath.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 “Surely every man walks like a shadow. Surely they busy themselves in vain. He heaps up, and does not know who shall gather. 7 Now, Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in you. 8 Deliver me from all my transgressions. Don’t make me the reproach of the foolish. 9 I was mute. I didn’t open my mouth, because you did it. 10 Remove your scourge away from me. I am overcome by the blow of your hand. 11 When you rebuke and correct man for iniquity, You consume his wealth like a moth. Surely every man is but a breath.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 12 “Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my prayer, Adonai , and give ear to my cry. Don’t be silent at my tears. For I am a stranger with you, a foreigner, as all my fathers were. 13 Oh spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go away, and exist no more.” Chapter 40For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Reflection on life, towards the end of David’s life. (2 Sam 22:1) 1 I waited patiently for Adonai . He turned to me, and sh'ma ·heard obeyed· my cry. 2 He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay. He set my feet on a rock, and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He has put a new song in my mouth, even tehilah ·praise song· to our God. Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in Adonai . 4 Blessed is the man who makes Adonai his trust, and does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. 5 Many, Adonai , my God, are the wonderful works which you have done, and your thoughts which are toward us. They can’t be declared back to you. If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be counted. 6 Sacrifices and offerings you don’t want; burnt offerings and sin offerings you have not required. Instead, you have opened my ears. 7 So then I said, “Behold, I have come! In the scroll of a book it is written about me. 8 I delight to do your will, my God. Yes, your Torah ·Teaching· is within my heart.” 9 I have proclaimed glad news of righteousness in the great assembly. Behold, I will not seal my lips, Adonai , you know. 10 I have not hidden your righteousness within my heart. I have declared your faithfulness and your salvation. I have not concealed your cheshed ·loving-kindness· and your truth from the great assembly. 11 Don’t withhold your tender racham ·merciful love· from me, Adonai . Let your cheshed ·loving-kindness· and your truth continually preserve me. 12 For innumerable evils have surrounded me. My iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up. They are more than the hairs of my head. My heart has failed me. 13 Be pleased, Adonai , to deliver me. Hurry to help me, Adonai . 14 Let them be disappointed and confounded together who seek after my soul to destroy it. Let them be turned backward and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt. 15 Let them be desolate by reason of their shame that tell me, “Aha! Aha!” 16 Let all those who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let all who 'ahav ·affectionately love· your salvation say continually, “Let Adonai be exalted and magnified!” 17 But I am poor and needy. May the Lord think about me. You are my help and my deliverer. Don’t delay, my God. Chapter 41For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 Blessed is he who considers the poor. Adonai will deliver him in the day of evil. 2 Adonai will preserve him, and keep him alive. He shall be blessed on the earth, and he will not surrender him to the will of his enemies. 3 Adonai will sustain him on his sickbed, and restore him from his bed of illness. 4 I said, “Adonai , have mercy on me! Heal me, for I have sinned against you.” 5 My enemies speak evil against me: “When will he die, and his name perish?” 6 If he comes to see me, he speaks falsehood. His heart gathers iniquity to itself. When he goes abroad, he tells it. 7 All who hate me whisper together against me. They imagine the worst for me. 8 “An evil disease,” they say, “has afflicted him. Now that he lies he shall rise up no more.” 9 Yes, my own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, who ate bread with me, has lifted up his heel against me. 10 But you, Adonai , have mercy on me, and raise me up, that I may repay them. 11 By this I know that you delight in me, because my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 As for me, you uphold me in my integrity, and set me in your presence forever. 13 Blessed be Adonai , the God of Israel [God prevails], from everlasting and to everlasting! Amen v'Amen ·So be it and So be it·. Chapter 42For the Chief Musician. A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). Context: The writer feels small. He plaintively calls to God for help located by a Mizar [Small] Hill, in the region of Jordan River and the taller and significant Mount Hermon [Devoted to destruction], which is also called Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. (No reference.) 1 As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants after you, God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the Elohim Chayim [Living God]. When shall I come and appear before God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually ask me, “Where is your God?” 4 These things I remember, and pour out my soul within me, how I used to go with the crowd, and led them to God’s house, with the voice of joy and praise, a multitude keeping a holy day. 5 Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God! For I shall still yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to him for the yishu'ah ·salvation· of his presence. 6 My God, my soul is in despair within me. Therefore I remember you from the land of the Jordan [Descender], the heights of Hermon [Devoted to destruction], from the hill Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep at the noise of your waterfalls. All your waves and your billows have swept over me. 8 Adonai will enjoin his cheshed ·loving-kindness· in the daytime. In the night his song shall be with me: a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will ask God, my rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” 10 As with a sword in my bones, my adversaries reproach me, while they continually ask me, “Where is your God?” 11 Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God! For I shall still yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to him, the yishu'ah ·salvation· of my countenance, and my God. Chapter 43 1 Vindicate me, God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation. Oh, deliver me from deceitful and wicked men. 2 For you are the God of my strength. Why have you rejected me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? 3 Oh, send out your light and your truth. Let them lead me. Let them bring me to your holy hill, To your tents. 4 Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my exceeding joy. I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you on the harp, God, my God. 5 Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God! For I shall still yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to him: my yishu'ah ·Savior·, my helper, and my God. Chapter 44For the Chief Musician. By the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm·. Context: After the first loss at Ai, contemplation of God’s might in removing Israel from Egypt and Moses’ exhortation at Mount Gerival. (Josh 7:1-13; Deut 27-32) 1 We have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· with our ears, God; our fathers have told us, what work you did in their days, in the days of old. 2 You drove out the nations with your hand, but you planted them. You afflicted the peoples, but you spread them abroad. 3 For they didn’t get the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them; but your right hand, and your arm, and the light of your face, because you were favorable to them. 4 You are my King, God. Enjoin yishu'ah ·deliverance· for Jacob [Supplanter]! 5 Through you, will we push down our adversaries. Through your name, will we tread them under who rise up against us. 6 For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me. 7 But you have saved us from our adversaries, and have shamed those who hate us. 8 In God we have made our boast all day long, we will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your name forever. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 But now you rejected us, and brought us to dishonor, and don’t go out with our armies. 10 You make us turn back from the adversary. Those who hate us take plunder for themselves. 11 You have made us like sheep for food, and have scattered us among the nations. 12 You sell your people for nothing, and have gained nothing from their sale. 13 You make us a reproach to our neighbors, a scoffing and a derision to those who are around us. 14 You make us a byword among the nations, a shaking of the head among the peoples. 15 All day long my dishonor is before me, and shame covers my face, 16 At the taunt of one who reproaches and verbally abuses, because of the enemy and the avenger. 17 All this has come on us, yet have we not forgotten you, Neither have we been false to your covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties·. 18 Our heart has not turned back, neither have our steps strayed from your path, 19 Though you have crushed us in the haunt of jackals, and covered us with the shadow of death. 20 If we have forgotten the name of our God, or spread out our hands to a strange deity; 21 won’t God search this out? For he knows the secrets of the heart. 22 Yes, for your sake we are killed all day long. We are regarded as sheep for the slaughter. 23 Wake up! Why do you sleep, Lord? Arise! Don’t reject us forever. 24 Why do you hide your face, and forget our affliction and our oppression? 25 For our soul is bowed down to the dust. Our body clings to the earth. 26 Rise up to help us. Redeem us for your cheshed ·loving-kindness’· sake. Chapter 45For the Chief Musician. Set to “The Lilies.” A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). A wedding song; a song of yadidim ·beloveds·. Context: A contemplation similar to Ezekiel [God strengthens] 16:8-14. (Ez 16:8-14) 1 My heart overflows with a noble theme. I recite my verses for the king. My tongue is like the pen of a skillful writer. 2 You are the most excellent of the sons of men. Chen ·Grace· has anointed your lips, therefore God has blessed you forever. 3 Strap your sword on your thigh, mighty one: your splendor and your majesty. 4 In your majesty ride on victoriously on behalf of truth, humility, and righteousness. Let your right hand display awesome deeds. 5 Your arrows are sharp. The nations fall under you, with arrows in the heart of the king’s enemies. 6 Your throne, God, is forever and ever. A scepter of equity is the scepter of your kingdom. 7 You have 'ahavta ·affectionately loved· righteousness, and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows. 8 All your garments smell like myrrh, aloes, and cassia. Out of ivory palaces stringed instruments have made you glad. 9 Kings’ daughters are among your honorable women. At your right hand the queen stands in gold of Ophir. 10 Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, daughter, consider, and turn your ear. Forget your own people, and also your father’s house. 11 So the king will desire your beauty, honor him, for he is your lord. 12 The daughter of Tyre comes with a gift. The rich among the people entreat your favor. 13 The princess inside is all glorious. Her clothing is interwoven with gold. 14 She shall be led to the king in embroidered work. The virgins, her companions who follow her, shall be brought to you. 15 With gladness and rejoicing they shall be led. They shall enter into the king’s palace. 16 Your sons will take the place of your fathers. You shall make them princes in all the earth. 17 I will make your name to be remembered in all generations. Therefore the peoples shall yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you forever and ever. Chapter 46For the Chief Musician. By the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). According to Alamoth. 1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, though the mountains are shaken into the heart of the seas; 3 though its waters roar and are troubled, though the mountains tremble with their swelling. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 There is a river, the streams of which make the city of God glad, the holy place of the tents of haElyon [the Most High]. 5 God is within her. She shall not be moved. God will help her at dawn. 6 The nations raged. The kingdoms were moved. He lifted his voice, and the earth melted. 7 Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies] is with us. The God of Jacob [Supplanter] is our refuge. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 Come, see Adonai ’s works, what desolations he has made in the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear. He burns the chariots in the fire. 10 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies] is with us. The God of Jacob [Supplanter] is our refuge. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. Chapter 47For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). Context: Possible, reflection on God’s promise of blessing the Gentile nations to Abraham [Father of a multitude] in Gen 12:2; 18:18. (Gen 12:2; 18:18) 1 Oh clap your hands, all you nations. Shout to God with the voice of triumph! 2 For Adonai Most High is awesome. He is a great King over all the earth. 3 He subdues nations under us, and peoples under our feet. 4 He chooses our inheritance for us, the glory of Jacob [Supplanter] whom he 'ahav ·affectionately loved·. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 God has gone up with a shout, Adonai with the sound of a shofar ·ram horn·. 6 Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to God, sing zahmar ·musical praise·. Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to our King, sing zahmar ·musical praise·. 7 For God is the King of all the earth. Sing zahmar ·musical praise· with understanding. 8 God reigns over the nations. God sits on his holy throne. 9 The princes of the peoples are gathered together, the people of the God of Abraham [Father of a multitude]. For the shields of the earth belong to God. He is greatly exalted! Chapter 48A Song. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). Context: Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on Second Day in the Temple. (Consider Deut 4:5-8) 1 Great is Adonai , and greatly to be praised, in the city of our God, in his holy mountain. 2 Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], on the north sides, the city of the great King. 3 In its citadels God has revealed himself as a strong defense. 4 For, behold, the kings assembled themselves, they passed by together. 5 They saw it, then they were amazed. They were dismayed. They hurried away. 6 Trembling took hold of them there, pain, as of a woman in travail. 7 With the east wind, you break the ships of Tarshish. 8 As we have sh'ma ·heard obeyed·, so we have seen, in the city of Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies], in the city of our God. God will establish it forever. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 We have thought about your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, God, in the middle of your temple. 10 As is your name, God, so is your tehilah ·praise song· to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is full of righteousness. 11 Let Mount Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] be glad! Let the daughters of Judah [Praised] rejoice, Because of your judgments. 12 Walk about Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], and go around her. Number its towers. 13 Mark well her bulwarks. Consider her palaces, that you may tell it to the next generation. 14 For this God is our God forever and ever. He will be our guide even to death. Chapter 49For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). Context: A contemplation about inheritance. Similar to Job’s sacrifices for his children and the proverbs on future generations decisions of inheritance that they did not earn. (Job 1:4-5; Lam 2:17-25 (esp 2:21, 2:24)) 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, all you peoples. Listen, all you inhabitants of the world, 2 both low and high, rich and poor together. 3 My mouth will speak words of wisdom. My heart shall utter understanding. 4 I will incline my ear to a proverb. I will open my riddle on the harp. 5 Why should I fear in the days of evil, when iniquity at my heels surrounds me? 6 Those who trust in their wealth, and boast in the multitude of their riches— 7 none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give God a ransom for him. 8 For the redemption of their life is costly, no payment is ever enough, 9 That he should live on forever, that he should not see corruption. 10 For he sees that wise men die; likewise the fool and the senseless perish, and leave their wealth to others. 11 Their inward thought is that their houses will endure forever, and their dwelling places to all generations. They name their lands after themselves. 12 But man, despite his riches, does not endure. He is like the animals that perish. 13 This is the destiny of those who are foolish, and of those who approve their sayings. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 14 They are appointed as a flock for Sheol ·Place of the dead·. Death shall be their shepherd. The upright shall have dominion over them in the morning. Their beauty shall decay in Sheol ·Place of the dead·, far from their mansion. 15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol ·Place of the dead·, for he will receive me. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 16 Don’t be afraid when a man is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased. 17 For when he dies he shall carry nothing away. His glory shall not descend after him. 18 Though while he lived he blessed his soul— and men yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you when you do well for yourself— 19 he shall go to the generation of his fathers. They shall never see the light. 20 A man who has riches without understanding, is like the animals that perish. Chapter 50A Psalm by Asaph. Context: Asaph was appointed as leader of Levitical praise choir by King David [Beloved]. (1 Chr 16:4, 4:37) 1 The Mighty One, God, Adonai , speaks, and calls the earth from sunrise to sunset. 2 Out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], the perfection of beauty, God shines out. 3 Our God comes, and does not keep silent. A fire devours before him. It is very stormy around him. 4 He calls to the heavens above, to the earth, that he may judge his people: 5 “Gather my saints together to me, those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” 6 The heavens shall declare his righteousness, for God himself is judge. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 7 “Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, my people, and I will speak; Israel [God prevails], and I will testify against you. I am God, your God. 8 I don’t rebuke you for your sacrifices. Your burnt offerings are continually before me. 9 I have no need for a bull from your stall, nor male goats from your pens. 10 For every animal of the forest is mine, and the livestock on a thousand hills. 11 I know all the birds of the mountains. The wild animals of the field are mine. 12 If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it. 13 Will I eat the meat of bulls, or drink the blood of goats? 14 Offer to God the sacrifice of thanksgiving. Pay your vows to haElyon [the Most High]. 15 Call on me in the day of trouble. I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” 16 But to the wicked God says, “What right do you have to declare my statutes, that you have taken my covenant on your lips, 17 since you hate instruction, and throw my words behind you? 18 When you saw a thief, you consented with him, and have participated with adulterers. 19 “You give your mouth to evil. Your tongue frames deceit. 20 You sit and speak against your brother. You slander your own mother’s son. 21 You have done these things, and I kept silent. You thought that I was just like you. I will rebuke you, and accuse you in front of your eyes. 22 “Now consider this, you who forget God, lest I tear you into pieces, and there be no one to deliver. 23 Whoever offers the sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies me, and prepares his way so that I will show God’s yesha' ·salvation· to him.” Chapter 51For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved], when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba [Daughter of seven, Daughter of oath]. Context: David’s sin of adultery and murder, in view of his great repentance. David [Beloved] seeks God and acquires an assurance of forgiveness. (2 Sam 11:1-12:15, 12:16-25) 1 Have gracious pity on me, God, according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. According to the multitude of your tender racham ·merciful love·, blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity. Cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions. My sin is constantly before me. 4 Against you, and you only, have I sinned, and done that which is evil in your sight; that you may be proved right when you speak, and justified when you judge. 5 Behold, I was born in iniquity. In sin my mother conceived me. 6 Behold, you desire truth in the inward parts. You teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean. Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me sh'ma ·hear obey· joy and gladness, That the bones which you have broken may rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all of my iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. 11 Don’t throw me from your presence, and don’t take your Ruach Kodesh [Holy Spirit] from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your yesha' ·salvation·. Uphold me with a willing spirit. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways. Sinners shall be converted to you. 14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, the God of my salvation. My tongue shall sing aloud of your righteousness. 15 Lord, open my lips. My mouth shall declare your tehilah ·praise song·. 16 For you don’t delight in sacrifice, or else I would give it. You have no pleasure in burnt offering. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit. A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. 18 Do well in your good pleasure to Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. Build the walls of Jerusalem [City of peace]. 19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of righteousness, in burnt offerings and in whole burnt offerings. Then they will offer bulls on your altar. Chapter 52For the Chief Musician. A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved], when Doeg [Anxious, Careful] the Edomite [Red] came and told Saul [Asked for], “David [Beloved] has come to Abimelech [My father king]’s house.” Context: David [Beloved] is hiding from King Saul [Asked for]. Saul [Asked for] tried to rally his own clan of Benjamin [Son of right hand, Son of south] to his side. An Edomite [Red], from Israel’s cousin nation from Ishmael, is willing to do King Saul [Asked for]’s dirty work against the Levites [Descendants of United with]. (1 Sam 22:1-19) 1 Why do you boast of mischief, mighty man? God’s cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures continually. 2 Your tongue plots destruction, like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. 3 You 'ahavta ·affectionately love· evil more than good, lying rather than speaking the truth. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 You 'ahavta ·affectionately love· all devouring words, you deceitful tongue. 5 God will likewise destroy you forever. He will take you up, and pluck you out of your tent, and root you out of the land of the living. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 The upright also will see it, and fear, and laugh at him, saying, 7 “Behold, this is the man who didn’t make God his strength, but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness.” 8 But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in God’s house. I trust in God’s cheshed ·loving-kindness· forever and ever. 9 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you forever, because you have done it. I will hope in your name, for it is good, in the presence of your saints. Chapter 53For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Mahalath.” A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved]. Context: A contemplation similar to Proverbs 1:7. (Prov 1:7) 1 The fool has said in his heart, “There is no Elohim ·Deity, Judge·.” They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity. There is no one who does good. 2 God looks down from heaven on the children of men, to see if there are any who understood, who seek after God. 3 Every one of them has gone back. They have become filthy together. There is no one who does good, no, not one. 4 Have the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up my people as they eat bread, and don’t call on God? 5 There they were in great fear, where no fear was, for God has scattered the bones of him who encamps against you. You have put them to shame, because God has rejected them. 6 Oh that the yishu'ah ·salvation· of Israel [God prevails] would come out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]! When God brings back his people from captivity, then Jacob [Supplanter] shall rejoice, and Israel [God prevails] shall be glad. Chapter 54For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved], when the Ziphites came and said to Saul [Asked for], “Is not David [Beloved] hiding himself among us?” Context: David [Beloved] is hiding from King Saul [Asked for] and the people of Zif tell Saul [Asked for] where to find David [Beloved]. (1 Sam 23:19-24) 1 Save me, God, by your name. Vindicate me in your might. 2 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my prayer, God. Listen to the words of my mouth. 3 For strangers have risen up against me. Violent men have sought after my soul. They haven’t set God before them. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 Behold, God is my helper. The Lord is the one who sustains my soul. 5 He will repay the evil to my enemies. Destroy them in your truth. 6 With a free will offering, I will sacrifice to you. I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your name, Adonai , for it is good. 7 For he has delivered me out of all trouble. My eye has seen triumph over my enemies. Chapter 55For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved]. Context: David’s son Absalom [Father peace] is trying to overthrow his father King David [Beloved]. He has a plan to pursue and murder David [Beloved]. God frustrates these plans to bring disaster on Absalom [Father peace]. (2 Sam 17 (Emphesis 2 Sam 15:12; 16:23; 17:21)) 1 Listen to my prayer, God. Don’t hide yourself from my supplication. 2 Attend to me, and answer me. I am restless in my complaint, and moan, 3 Because of the voice of the enemy, Because of the oppression of the wicked. For they bring suffering on me. In anger they hold a grudge against me. 4 My heart is severely pained within me. The terrors of death have fallen on me. 5 Fearfulness and trembling have come on me. Horror has overwhelmed me. 6 I said, “Oh that I had wings like a dove! Then I would fly away, and be at rest. 7 Behold, then I would wander far off. I would lodge in the wilderness.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 “I would hurry to a shelter from the stormy wind and storm.” 9 Confuse them, Lord, and confound their language, for I have seen violence and strife in the city. 10 Day and night they prowl around on its walls. Malice and abuse are also within her. 11 Destructive forces are within her. Threats and lies don’t depart from her streets. 12 For it was not an enemy who insulted me, then I could have endured it. Neither was it he who hated me who raised himself up against me, then I would have hidden myself from him. 13 But it was you, a man like me, my companion, and my familiar friend. 14 We took sweet fellowship together. We walked in God’s house with company. 15 Let death come suddenly on them. Let them go down alive into Sheol ·Place of the dead·. For wickedness is among them, in their dwelling. 16 As for me, I will call on God. Adonai will save me. 17 Evening, morning, and at noon, I will cry out in distress. He will sh'ma ·hear obey· my voice. 18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me, although there are many who oppose me. 19 God, who is enthroned forever, will sh'ma ·hear obey·, and humble them. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. They never change, who don’t fear God. 20 He raises his hands against his friends. He has violated his covenant. 21 His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords. 22 Cast your burden on Adonai , and he will sustain you. He will never allow the upright to be moved. 23 But you, God, will bring them down into the pit of destruction. Bloodthirsty and deceitful men shall not live out half their days, but I will trust in you. Chapter 56For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Silent Dove in Distant Lands.” A poem by David [Beloved], when the Philistines [To roll in dust (As an insult)] seized him in Gath. Context: Philistines [To roll in dust (As an insult)] capture David [Beloved] in Gath. (1 Sam 21, 27:6-12) 1 Be merciful to me, God, for man wants to swallow me up. All day long, he attacks and oppresses me. 2 My enemies want to swallow me up all day long, for they are many who fight proudly against me. 3 When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. 4 In God, I praise his word. In God, I put my trust. I will not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? 5 All day long they twist my words. All their thoughts are against me for evil. 6 They conspire and lurk, watching my steps, they are eager to take my life. 7 Shall they escape by iniquity? In anger cast down the peoples, God. 8 You count my wanderings. You put my tears into your bottle. Are not they in your book? 9 Then my enemies shall turn back in the day that I call. I know this, that God is for me. 10 In God, I will praise his word. In Adonai , I will praise his word. 11 I have put my trust in God. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? 12 Your vows are on me, God. I will give thank offerings to you. 13 For you have delivered my soul from death, and prevented my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living. Chapter 57For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David [Beloved], when he fled from Saul [Asked for], in the cave. Context: King Saul [Asked for] is pursuing David [Beloved] to murder him. David [Beloved] comes from the mountain stronghold to show his respect to the King God established by taking evidence from David’s closeness to Saul [Asked for]’s bed. Saul [Asked for] makes a temporary peace promise. (1 Sam 23:24-24:22) 1 Be merciful to me, God, show favor to me, for my soul takes refuge in you. Yes, in the shadow of your wings, I will take refuge, until disaster has passed. 2 I cry out to El 'Elyon [God Most High], to God who accomplishes my requests for me. 3 He will send from heaven, and save me, he rebukes the one who is pursuing me. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. God will send out his cheshed ·loving-kindness· and his truth. 4 My soul is among lions. I lie among those who are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword. 5 Be exalted, God, above the heavens! Let your kavod ·weighty glory· be above all the earth! 6 They have prepared a net for my steps. My soul is bowed down. They dig a pit before me. They fall into the middle of it themselves. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 7 My heart is steadfast, God, my heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will sing zahmar ·musical praise·. 8 Wake up, my glory! Wake up, lute and harp! I will wake up the dawn. 9 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, Lord, among the peoples. I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you among the nations. 10 For your great cheshed ·loving-kindness· reaches to the heavens, and your truth to the skies. 11 Be exalted, God, above the heavens. Let your kavod ·weighty glory· be over all the earth. Chapter 58For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David [Beloved]. 1 Do you indeed speak righteousness, silent ones? Do you judge blamelessly, you sons of men? 2 No, in your heart you plot injustice. You measure out the violence of your hands in the earth. 3 The wicked go astray from the womb. They are wayward as soon as they are born, speaking lies. 4 Their poison is like the poison of a snake; like a deaf cobra that stops its ear, 5 which does not sh'ma ·hear obey· the voice of charmers, no matter how skillful the charmer may be. 6 Break their teeth, God, in their mouth. Break out the great teeth of the young lions, Adonai . 7 Let them vanish like water that flows away. When they draw the bow, let their arrows be made blunt. 8 Let them be like a snail which melts and passes away, like the stillborn child, who has not seen the sun. 9 Before your pots can feel the heat of the thorns, he will sweep away the green and the burning alike. 10 The upright shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance. He shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked; 11 so that men shall say, “Most certainly there is a reward for the upright. Most certainly there is a God who judges the earth.” Chapter 59For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David [Beloved], when Saul [Asked for] sent, and they watched the house to kill him. Context: King Saul [Asked for] finds David [Beloved] to be unique and takes him to be part of his close circle. David [Beloved] continues with God’s favor and Saul [Asked for] becomes more suspicious and wary of David [Beloved] until Saul [Asked for] attacks in a rage. (1 Sam 18:1-9, 18:28-30, 19:8-18) 1 Deliver me from my enemies, my God. Set me on high from those who rise up against me. 2 Deliver me from the workers of iniquity. Save me from the bloodthirsty men. 3 For, behold, they lie in wait for my soul. The mighty gather themselves together against me, not for my disobedience, nor for my sin, Adonai . 4 I have done no wrong, yet they are ready to attack me. Rise up, behold, and help me! 5 You, Adonai Elohei Tzva'ot [Yahweh God Commander of heaven’s armies], the God of Israel [God prevails], rouse yourself to punish the nations. Show no mercy to the wicked traitors. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 They teshuvah ·completely return· at evening, howling like dogs, and prowl around the city. 7 Behold, they spew with their mouth. Swords are in their lips, “For,” they say, “who sh'ma ·hears obeys· us?” 8 But you, Adonai , laugh at them. You scoff at all the nations. 9 Oh, my Strength, I watch for you, for God is my high tower. 10 My God will go before me with his cheshed ·loving-kindness·. God will let me look at my enemies in triumph. 11 Don’t kill them, or my people may forget. Scatter them by your power, and bring them down, Lord our shield. 12 For the sin of their mouth, and the words of their lips, let them be caught in their pride, for the curses and lies which they utter. 13 Consume them in wrath. Consume them, and they will be no more. Let them know that God rules in Jacob [Supplanter], to the ends of the earth. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 14 At evening let them teshuvah ·completely return·. Let them howl like a dog, and go around the city. 15 They shall wander up and down for food, and wait all night if they are not satisfied. 16 But I will sing of your strength. Yes, I will sing aloud of your cheshed ·loving-kindness· in the morning. For you have been my high tower, a refuge in the day of my distress. 17 To you, my strength, I will sing zahmar ·musical praise·. For God is my high tower, the God of my cheshed ·loving-kindness·. Chapter 60For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Lily of the Covenant.” A teaching poem by David [Beloved], when he fought with Aram [Elevated] Naharaim and with Aram [Elevated] Zobah, and Joab returned, and killed twelve thousand of Edom [Red] in the Valley of Salt. Context: Perspective before and after David’s victory over Aram [Elevated] Naharaim and Zobah. (2 Sam 8:3-15; 1 Chr 18:3-14) 1 God, you have rejected us. You have broken us down. You have been angry. Restore us, again. 2 You have made the land tremble. You have torn it. Mend its fractures, for it quakes. 3 You have shown your people hard things. You have made us drink the wine that makes us stagger. 4 You have given a banner to those who fear you, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 So that your yadid ·beloved· may be delivered, save with your right hand, and answer us. 6 God has spoken from his sanctuary: “I will triumph. I will divide Shechem, and measure out the valley of Sukkot. 7 Gilead is mine, and Manasseh [Causing to forget] is mine. Ephraim [Fruit] also is the defense of my head. Judah [Praised] is my scepter. 8 Moab [From father] is my wash basin. I will throw my shoe on Edom [Red]. I shout in triumph over Philistia.” 9 Who will bring me into the strong city? Who has led me to Edom [Red]? 10 Haven’t you, God, rejected us? You don’t go out with our armies, God. 11 Give us help against the adversary, for the help of man is vain. 12 Through God we shall do valiantly, for it is he who will tread down our adversaries. Chapter 61For the Chief Musician. For a stringed instrument. By David [Beloved]. Context: Possible, David [Beloved] is in mountain crags taking shelter from Saul [Asked for]. God gives David [Beloved] opportunity to overpower his enemy King Saul [Asked for]. (1 Sam 23:29-24:7) Context: Possible, David [Beloved] contemplates God’s promise to establish peace from all Israel’s enemies and God will establish David’s son and David’s house forever. (2 Sam 7:8-16) 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my cry, God. Listen to my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth, I will call to you, when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For you have been a refuge for me, a strong tower from the enemy. 4 I will dwell in your tent forever. I will take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 For you, God, have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· my vows. You have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. 6 You will prolong the king’s life; his years shall be for generations. 7 He shall be enthroned in God’s presence forever. Appoint your cheshed ·loving-kindness· and truth, that they may preserve him. 8 So I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to your name forever, that I may fulfill my vows daily. Chapter 62For the Chief Musician. To Jeduthan. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] flees Jerusalem [City of peace] from Absolom [My father peace]. (2 Sam 15-17) 1 My soul rests in God alone. My yishu'ah ·salvation· comes from him. 2 He alone is my rock and my yishu'ah ·salvation·, my fortress— I will never be greatly shaken. 3 How long will you assault a man, would all of you throw him down, Like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence? 4 They fully intend to throw him down from his lofty place. They delight in lies. They bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 My soul, wait in silence for God alone, for my expectation is from him. 6 He alone is my rock and my yishu'ah ·salvation·, my fortress. I will not be shaken. 7 With God is my yesha' ·salvation· and my kavod ·weighty glory·. The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. 8 Trust in him at all times, you people. Pour out your heart before him. God is a refuge for us. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 Surely men of low degree are just a breath, and men of high degree are a lie. In the balances they will go up. They are together lighter than a breath. 10 Don’t trust in oppression. Don’t become vain in robbery. If riches increase, don’t set your heart on them. 11 God has spoken once; twice I have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· this, that power belongs to God. 12 Also to you, Lord, belongs cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for you reward every man according to his work. Chapter 63A Psalm by David [Beloved], when he was in the desert of Judah [Praised]. Context: David [Beloved] flees Jerusalem [City of peace] from Absolom [My father peace]. (2 Sam 15-17) 1 God, you are my God. I will earnestly seek you. My soul thirsts for you. My flesh longs for you, in a dry and weary land, where there is no water. 2 So I have seen you in the sanctuary, watching your power and your kavod ·weighty glory·. 3 Because your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is better than life, my lips shall praise you. 4 So I will bless you while I live. I will lift up my hands in your name. 5 My soul shall be satisfied as with the richest food. My mouth shall praise you with joyful lips, 6 when I remember you on my bed, and think about you in the night watches. 7 For you have been my help. I will rejoice in the shadow of your wings. 8 My soul stays close to you. Your right hand holds me up. 9 But those who seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. 10 They shall be given over to the power of the sword. They shall be jackal food. 11 But the king shall rejoice in God. Everyone who swears by him will praise him, for the mouth of those who speak lies shall be silenced. Chapter 64For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: This Psalm is multi-contextual. The writer is seeking God’s justice when others are plotting to do him harm. (No reference.) 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my voice, God, in my complaint. Preserve my life from fear of the enemy. 2 Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the noisy crowd of the ones doing evil; 3 who sharpen their tongue like a sword, and aim their arrows, deadly words, 4 to shoot innocent men from ambushes. They shoot at him suddenly and fearlessly. 5 They encourage themselves in evil plans. They talk about laying snares secretly. They say, “Who will see them?” 6 They plot injustice, saying, “We have made a perfect plan!” Surely man’s mind and heart are cunning. 7 But God will shoot at them. They will be suddenly struck down with an arrow. 8 Their own tongues shall ruin them. All who see them will shake their heads. 9 All mankind shall be afraid. They shall declare the work of God, and shall wisely ponder what he has done. 10 The upright shall be glad in Adonai , and shall take refuge in him. All the upright in heart shall praise him! Chapter 65For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. A song. 1 Tehilah ·Praise song· waits for you, God, in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. To you shall vows be performed. 2 You who sh'ma ·hear obey· prayer, to you all men will come. 3 Sins overwhelmed me, but you atoned for our transgressions. 4 Blessed is one whom you choose, and cause to come near, that he may live in your courts. We will be filled with the goodness of your house, your holy temple. 5 By awesome deeds of righteousness, you answer us, God of our yesha' ·salvation·. You who are the hope of all the ends of the earth, of those who are far away on the sea; 6 Who by his power forms the mountains, having armed yourself with strength; 7 who stills the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations. 8 They also who dwell in far away places are afraid at your wonders. You call the morning’s dawn and the evening with songs of joy. 9 You visit the earth, and water it. You greatly enrich it. The river of God is full of water. You provide them grain, for so you have ordained it. 10 You drench its furrows. You level its ridges. You soften it with showers. You bless it with a crop. 11 You crown the year with your bounty. Your carts overflow with abundance. 12 The wilderness grasslands overflow. The hills are clothed with gladness. 13 The pastures are covered with flocks. The valleys also are clothed with grain. They shout for joy! They also sing. Chapter 66For the Chief Musician. A song. A Psalm. Context: Likely in retrospect after Babylon [Confusion] exile and God replanting Israel [God prevails] in the land. In the second year the foundation of the second Temple was built, this was amazing to all. Similar structure to Chronicles, post-exile. Possibly, a teaching Psalm for the people to learn history and right actions by. (Ezra 3) 1 Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! 2 Make zahmar ·musical praise· to the kavod ·weighty glory· of his name! Offer kavod ·weighty glory· and tehilah ·praise song·! 3 Tell God, “How awesome are your deeds! Through the greatness of your power, your enemies submit themselves to you. 4 All the earth will hawa ·bow low, prostrate· to worship you, and will make zahmar ·musical praise· to you; they will make zahmar ·musical praise· to your name.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 Come, and see God’s deeds— awesome work on behalf of the children of men. 6 He turned the sea into dry land. They went through the river on foot. There, we rejoiced in him. 7 He rules by his might forever. His eyes watch the nations. Don’t let the rebellious rise up against him. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 Praise our God, you peoples! Make the sound of his tehilah ·praise song· be sh'ma ·heard obeyed·, 9 who preserves our life among the living, and does not allow our feet to be moved. 10 For you, God, have tested us. You have refined us, as silver is refined. 11 You brought us into prison. You laid a burden on our backs. 12 You allowed men to ride over our heads. We went through fire and through water, but you brought us to the place of abundance. 13 I will come into your temple with burnt offerings. I will pay my vows to you, 14 which my lips promised, and my mouth spoke, when I was in distress. 15 I will offer to you burnt offerings of fat animals, with the offering of rams, I will offer bulls with goats. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 16 Come, and sh'ma ·hear obey·, all you who fear God. I will declare what he has done for my soul. 17 I cried to him with my mouth. He was extolled with my tongue. 18 If I cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have sh'ma ·heard obeyed·. 19 But most certainly, God has sh'ma ·heard obeyed·. He has heard the voice of my prayer. 20 Blessed be God, who has not turned away my prayer, nor his loving kindness from me. Chapter 67For the Chief Musician. With stringed instruments. A Psalm. A song. 1 May God be merciful to us, bless us, and cause his face to shine on us. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 2 That your way may be known on earth, and your yishu'ah ·salvation· among all nations, 3 let the peoples yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, God. Let all the peoples yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you. 4 Oh let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you will judge the peoples with equity, and govern the nations on earth. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 Let the peoples yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, God. Let all the peoples yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you. 6 The earth has yielded its increase. God, even our own God, will bless us. 7 God will bless us. All the ends of the earth shall fear him. Chapter 68For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. A song. Context: The return of the ark of the covenant from the Philistines [To roll in dust (As an insult)] back to Israel [God prevails]. (2 Sam 6; 1 Chr 16) 1 Let God arise! Let his enemies be scattered! Let them who hate him also flee before him. 2 As smoke is driven away, so drive them away. As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. 3 But let the upright be glad. Let them rejoice before God. Yes, let them rejoice with gladness. 4 Sing to God! Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to his name! Extol him who rides on the clouds: to Yah, his name! Rejoice before him! 5 A father to orphans, and a defender of the widows, is God in his holy habitation. 6 God sets the lonely in families. He brings out the prisoners with singing, but the rebellious dwell in a sun-scorched land. 7 God, when you went out before your people, when you marched through the wilderness... Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 The earth trembled. The sky also poured down rain at the presence of the God of Sinai— at the presence of God, the God of Israel [God prevails]. 9 You, God, sent a plentiful rain. You confirmed your inheritance, when it was weary. 10 Your congregation lived therein. You, God, prepared your goodness for the poor. 11 The Lord announced the word. The ones who proclaim it are a great company. 12 “Kings of armies flee! They flee!” She who waits at home divides the plunder, 13 while you sleep among the camp fires, the wings of a dove sheathed with silver, her feathers with shining gold. 14 When Shaddai [Almighty] scattered kings in her, it snowed on Zalmon. 15 The mountains of Bashan are majestic mountains. The mountains of Bashan are rugged. 16 Why do you look in envy, you rugged mountains, at the mountain where God chooses to reign? Yes, Adonai will dwell there forever. 17 The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands. The Lord is among them, from Sinai [Thorn], into the sanctuary. 18 You have ascended on high. You have led away captives. You have received gifts among men, yes, among the rebellious also, that Yah God might dwell there. 19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burdens, even the God who is our yishu'ah ·salvation·. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 20 God is to us a God of deliverance. To Adonai , the Lord, belongs escape from death. 21 But God will strike through the head of his enemies, the hairy scalp of such a one as still continues in his guiltiness. 22 The Lord said, “I will bring you again from Bashan, I will bring you again from the depths of the sea; 23 That you may crush them, dipping your foot in blood, that the tongues of your dogs may have their portion from your enemies.” 24 They have seen your processions, God, even the processions of my God, my King, into the sanctuary. 25 The singers went before, the minstrels followed after, among the ladies playing with tambourines, 26 “Bless God in the congregations, even the Lord in the assembly of Israel [God prevails]!” 27 There is little Benjamin [Son of right hand, Son of south], their ruler, the princes of Judah [Praised], their council, the princes of Zebulun [Living together], and the princes of Naphtali [My wrestling]. 28 Your God has enjoined your strength. Strengthen, God, that which you have done for us. 29 Because of your temple at Jerusalem [City of peace], kings shall bring presents to you. 30 Rebuke the wild animal of the reeds, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the peoples. Being humbled, may it bring bars of silver. Scatter the nations that delight in war. 31 Princes shall come out of Egypt [Abode of slavery]. Ethiopia shall hurry to stretch out her hands to God. 32 Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth! Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to Adonai! Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 33 To him who rides on the heaven of heavens, which are of old; behold, he utters his voice, a mighty voice. 34 Ascribe strength to God! His excellency is over Israel [God prevails], his strength is in the skies. 35 You are awesome, God, in your sanctuaries. The God of Israel [God prevails] gives strength and power to his people. Praise be to God! Chapter 69For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Lilies.” By David [Beloved]. Context: Describing the life of a poor, despised and humbled person who lacks any comforting friend. Through no apparent cause of his own, he is surrounded by enemies who wish to cut him down; even his brothers do not render aid. Also contains Messianic prophecy. Written by David [Beloved] before 2 Sam 22:1. (No reference). 1 Save me, God, for the waters have come up to my neck! 2 I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold. I have come into deep waters, where the floods overflow me. 3 I am weary with my crying. My throat is dry. My eyes fail, looking for my God. 4 Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head. Those who want to cut me off, being my enemies wrongfully, are mighty. I am forced to restore what I didn’t steal. 5 God, you know my foolishness. My sins are not hidden from you. 6 Don’t let those who wait for you be shamed through me, Lord Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies]. Don’t let those who seek you be brought to dishonor through me, God of Israel [God prevails]. 7 Because for your sake, I have borne reproach. Shame has covered my face. 8 I have become a stranger to my brothers, an alien to my mother’s children. 9 For the zeal of your house consumes me. The insults of those insulting you have fallen on me. 10 When I wept and I fasted, that was to my reproach. 11 When I made sackcloth my clothing, I became a byword to them. 12 Those who sit in the gate talk about me. I am the song of the drunkards. 13 But as for me, my prayer is to you, Adonai , in an acceptable time. God, in the abundance of your loving kindness, answer me in the truth of your yesha' ·salvation·. 14 Deliver me out of the mire, and don’t let me sink. Let me be delivered from those who hate me, and out of the deep waters. 15 Don’t let the flood waters overwhelm me, neither let the deep swallow me up. Don’t let the pit shut its mouth on me. 16 Answer me, Adonai , for your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is good. According to the multitude of your tender racham · merciful love·, turn to me. 17 Don’t hide your face from your servant, for I am in distress. Answer me speedily! 18 Draw near to my soul, and redeem it. Ransom me because of my enemies. 19 You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor. My adversaries are all before you. 20 Reproach has broken my heart, and I am full of heaviness. I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; for comforters, but I found none. 21 They also gave me gall for my food. In my thirst, they gave me vinegar to drink. 22 Let their table before them become a snare. May it become a retribution and a trap. 23 Let their eyes be darkened, so that they can’t see. Let their backs be continually bent. 24 Pour out your indignation on them. Let the fierceness of your anger overtake them. 25 Let their habitation be desolate. Let no one dwell in their tents. 26 For they persecute him whom you have wounded. They tell of the sorrow of those whom you have hurt. 27 Charge them with crime upon crime. Don’t let them come into your righteousness. 28 Let them be blotted out of the book of life, and not be written with the upright. 29 But I am in pain and distress. Let your yishu'ah ·salvation·, O God, protect me. 30 I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. 31 It will please Adonai better than an ox, or a bull that has horns and hoofs. 32 The humble have seen it, and are glad. You who seek after God, let your heart live. 33 For Adonai sh'ma ·hears obeys· the needy, and does not despise his captive people. 34 Let heaven and earth praise him; the seas, and everything that moves therein! 35 For God will save Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], and build the cities of Judah [Praised]. They shall settle there, and own it. 36 The children also of his servants shall inherit it. Those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· his name shall dwell therein. Chapter 70For the Chief Musician. By David [Beloved]. A reminder. Context: While David’s life is being threatened. This Psalm is multi-contextual. (No reference). 1 Hurry, God, to deliver me. Come quickly to help me, Adonai . 2 Let them be disappointed and confounded who seek my soul. Let those who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. 3 Let them be turned because of their shame Who say, “Aha! Aha!” 4 Let all those who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· your yishu'ah ·salvation· continually say, “Let God be exalted!” 5 But I am poor and needy. Come to me quickly, God. You are my help and my deliverer. Adonai , don’t delay. Chapter 71Context: Possibly, when David [Beloved] was usurped by his own son Absalom [Father peace]. While David [Beloved] experiences great turmoil and prays God sees him, Absalom [Father peace] plots to take over his father’s position in the family. (2 Sam 16:8-23) 1 In you, Adonai , I take refuge. Never let me be disappointed. 2 Deliver me in your righteousness, and rescue me. Turn your ear to me, and save me. 3 Be to me a rock of refuge to which I may always go. Give the enjoin to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. 4 Rescue me, my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. 5 For you are my hope, Lord Adonai ; my confidence from my youth. 6 I have relied on you from the womb. You are he who took me out of my mother’s womb. I will always tehilah ·praise song· you. 7 I am a marvel to many, but you are my strong refuge. 8 My mouth shall be filled with your tehilah ·praise song·, with your honor all the day. 9 Don’t reject me in my old age. Don’t forsake me when my strength fails. 10 For my enemies talk about me. Those who watch for my soul conspire together, 11 saying, “God has forsaken him. Pursue and take him, for no one will rescue him.” 12 God, don’t be far from me. My God, hurry to help me. 13 Let my accusers be disappointed and consumed. Let them be covered with disgrace and scorn who want to harm me. 14 But I will always hope, and will add to all of your tehilah ·praise song·. 15 My mouth will tell about your righteousness, and of your salvation all day, though I don’t know its full measure. 16 I will come with the mighty acts of the Lord Adonai . I will make mention of your righteousness, even of yours alone. 17 God, you have taught me from my youth. Until now, I have declared your wondrous works. 18 Yes, even when I am old and gray-haired, God, don’t forsake me, until I have declared your strength to the next generation, your might to everyone who is to come. 19 Your righteousness also, God, reaches to the heavens; you have done great things. God, who is like you? 20 You, who have shown us many and bitter troubles, you will let me live. You will bring us up again from the depths of the earth. 21 Increase my honor, and comfort me again. 22 I will also yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God. I sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you with the lyre, haKadosh Isra'el [the Holy One of God prevails]. 23 My lips shall shout for joy! My soul, which you have redeemed, sings zahmar ·musical praise· to you! 24 My tongue will also talk about your righteousness all day long, for they are disappointed, and they are confounded, who want to harm me. Chapter 72By the hand of Solomon, said in prophecy. Concerning the coming of the Messiah, and the calling of the Gentiles. Context: David [Beloved] publicly gives Solomon his blessing as his heir. David [Beloved] instructs Solomon in kingly matters. The people rejoice and receive their next king with great joy and with God’s favor. Solomon seeks God’s favor on his kingship. (1 Chr 28-29; 2 Chr 1 (esp 2 Chr 1:7-13)) 1 God, give your mishpat ·justice· to the King Messiah [Anointed one]; and your righteousness to the Son of David [Beloved] the King. 2 He will judge your people with righteousness, and your poor afflicted ones with right judgments. 3 The mountains shall bring peace and prosperity to the people. The hills bring the fruit of righteousness. 4 He will judge the poor of the people. He will save the children of the needy, and will break the oppressor in pieces. 5 They shall fear you, the King Messiah [Anointed one], while the sun endures; and as long as the moon, throughout all generations. 6 He will come down like rain on the cut grass of the earth, as showers that water the earth. 7 In his days, the upright shall be multiplied, and abundance of peace, until the moon is no more. 8 He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, from the River to the ends of the earth. 9 Those who dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him. His enemies shall lick the dust. 10 The kings of Tarshish and of the islands will bring tribute. The kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. 11 Yes, all kings shall hawa ·bow low, prostrate· before him. All nations shall serve him. 12 For he will deliver the needy when he cries; the poor, who has no helper. 13 He will have pity on the poor and needy. He will save the souls of the needy. 14 He will redeem their soul from oppression and violence. Their blood will be precious in his sight. 15 They shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba. Men shall pray for him continually. They shall bless him all day long. 16 There shall be an abundance of corn throughout the land. Its fruit sways like Lebanon. Let it flourish, thriving like the grass of the field outside the city. 17 His name endures forever. His name existed before the creation of the sun. Men shall be blessed by him. All nations will call him blessed. 18 Praise be to Adonai God, the God of Israel [God prevails], who alone does marvelous deeds. 19 Blessed be his kavod ·weighty glorious· name forever! Let the whole earth be filled with his kavod ·weighty glory·! Amen v'Amen ·So be it and So be it·. 20 This ends the prayers by David [Beloved], the son of Jesse [My husband]. Chapter 73A Psalm by Asaph. Context: During the dedication of Solomon’s temple, a contemplation on upright and wrongful behaviors before God. (1 King 8:46-53) 1 Surely God is good to Israel [God prevails], to those who are pure in heart. 2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone. My steps had nearly slipped. 3 For I was envious of the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 For there are no struggles in their death, but their strength is firm. 5 They are free from burdens of men, neither are they plagued like other men. 6 Therefore pride is like a chain around their neck. Violence covers them like a garment. 7 Their eyes bulge with fat. Their minds pass the limits of conceit. 8 They scoff and speak with malice. In arrogance, they threaten oppression. 9 They have set their mouth in the heavens. Their tongue walks through the earth. 10 Therefore their people teshuvah ·completely return· to them, and they drink up waters of abundance. 11 They say, “How does God know? Is there knowledge in haElyon [the Most High]?” 12 Behold, these are the wicked. Being always at ease, they increase in riches. 13 Surely in vain I have cleansed my heart, and washed my hands in innocence, 14 For all day long have I been plagued, and punished every morning. 15 If I had said, “I will speak thus;” behold, I would have betrayed the generation of your children. 16 When I tried to understand this, it was too painful for me; 17 Until I entered God’s sanctuary, and considered their latter end. 18 Surely you set them in slippery places. You throw them down to destruction. 19 How they are suddenly destroyed! They are completely swept away with terrors. 20 As a dream when one wakes up, so, Lord, when you awake, you will despise their fantasies. 21 For my soul was grieved. I was embittered in my heart. 22 I was so senseless and ignorant. I was a brute beast before you. 23 Nevertheless, I am continually with you. You have held my right hand. 24 You will guide me with your counsel, and afterward receive me to kavod ·weighty glory·. 25 Whom do I have in heaven? There is no one on earth whom I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart fails, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. 27 For, behold, those who are far from you shall perish. You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to you. 28 But it is good for me to come close to God. I have made the Lord Adonai my refuge, that I may tell of all your works. Chapter 74A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by Asaph. Context: After the Babylon [Confusion] exile and destruction of Solomon’s temple. (Jer 39) (Reference context: 1 King 8:46-53; 2 King 25:8-12; 2 Chr 36:13-21; Lev 26:27-45; Jer 38:24-40:6 (esp 39:15-40:3)) 1 God, why have you rejected us forever? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? 2 Remember your congregation, which you purchased of old, which you have redeemed to be the tribe of your inheritance; Mount Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], in which you have lived. 3 Lift up your feet to the perpetual ruins, all the evil that the enemy has done in the sanctuary. 4 Your adversaries have roared in the middle of your assembly. They have set up their standards as signs. 5 They behaved like men wielding axes, cutting through a thicket of trees. 6 Now they break all its carved work down with hatchet and hammers. 7 They have burned your sanctuary to the ground. They have profaned the dwelling place of your Name. 8 They said in their heart, “We will crush them completely.” They have burned up all the places in the land where God was worshiped. 9 We see no miraculous signs. There is no longer any prophet, neither is there among us anyone who knows how long. 10 How long, God, shall the adversary reproach? Shall the enemy blaspheme your name forever? 11 Why do you draw back your hand, even your right hand? Take it out of your pocket and consume them! 12 Yet God is my King of old, working yishu'ah ·salvation· throughout the earth. 13 You divided the sea by your strength. You broke the heads of the sea monsters in the waters. 14 You broke the heads of Leviathan in pieces. You gave him as food to people and desert creatures. 15 You opened up spring and stream. You dried up mighty rivers. 16 The day is yours, the night is also yours. You have prepared the light and the sun. 17 You have set all the boundaries of the earth. You have made summer and winter. 18 Remember this, that the enemy has mocked you, Adonai . Foolish people have blasphemed your name. 19 Don’t deliver the soul of your dove to wild beasts. Don’t forget the life of your poor forever. 20 Honor your covenant, for haunts of violence fill the dark places of the earth. 21 Don’t let the oppressed teshuvah ·completely return· ashamed. Let the poor and needy praise your name. 22 Arise, God! Plead your own cause. Remember how the foolish man mocks you all day. 23 Don’t forget the voice of your adversaries. The tumult of those who rise up against you ascends continually. Chapter 75For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Psalm by Asaph. A song. Context: Contemplation of the symbolic nature of the Wine of God’s wrath and anger being poured out on his own people in exile until the time of releasing from the oppressor and the oppressor drinks the same wine of God’s wrath. (Is 51:17-23; Jer 25:10-33, 48:21-27, 51:5-10). (Same symbolic reference is found in book of Revelation 14:6-13, 14:17-20, 16:18-19). (Compare Is 63:1-6 to Rev 18:1-10, 19:15) 1 We yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, God. We yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise·, for your Name is near. Men tell about your wondrous works. 2 When I choose the appointed time, I will judge blamelessly. 3 The earth and all its inhabitants quake. I firmly hold its pillars. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 I said to the arrogant, “Don’t boast!” I said to the wicked, “Don’t lift up the horn. 5 Don’t lift up your horn on high. Don’t speak with a stiff neck.” 6 For neither from the east, nor from the west, nor yet from the south, comes exaltation. 7 But God is the judge. He puts down one, and lifts up another. 8 For in Adonai ’s hand there is a cup, full of foaming wine mixed with spices. He pours it out. Indeed the wicked of the earth drink and drink it to its very dregs. 9 But I will declare this forever: I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to the God of Jacob [Supplanter]. 10 I will cut off all the horns of the wicked, but the horns of the upright shall be lifted up. Chapter 76For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A Psalm by Asaph. A song. 1 In Judah [Praised], God is known. His name is great in Israel [God prevails]. 2 His tabernacle is also in Salem [Complete peace, Perfect peace]; His dwelling place in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. 3 There he broke the flaming arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the weapons of war. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 Glorious are you, and excellent, more than mountains of game. 5 Valiant men lie plundered, they have slept their last sleep. None of the men of war can lift their hands. 6 At your rebuke, God of Jacob [Supplanter], both chariot and horse are cast into a deep sleep. 7 You, even you, are to be feared. Who can stand in your sight when you are angry? 8 You pronounced judgment to be sh'ma ·heard obeyed· from heaven. The earth feared, and was silent, 9 when God arose to judgment, to save all the afflicted ones of the earth. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 10 Surely the wrath of man yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you. The survivors of your wrath are restrained. 11 Make vows to Adonai your God, and fulfill them! Let all of his neighbors bring presents to him who is to be feared. 12 He will cut off the spirit of princes. He is feared by the kings of the earth. Chapter 77For the Chief Musician. To Jeduthun. A Psalm by Asaph. Context: Possibly a reflection during Daniel’s mourning of three weeks and pleading to God to reveal the meaning of a troubling vision. (Dan 10:1-14) 1 My cry goes to God! Indeed, I cry to God for help, and for him to listen to me. 2 In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord. My hand was stretched out in the night, and didn’t get tired. My soul refused to be comforted. 3 I remember God, and I groan. I complain, and my spirit is overwhelmed. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 You hold my eyelids open. I am so troubled that I can’t speak. 5 I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. 6 I remember my song in the night. I consider in my own heart; my spirit diligently inquires: 7 “Will the Lord reject us forever? Will he be favorable no more? 8 Has his cheshed ·loving-kindness· vanished forever? Does his promise fail for generations? 9 Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he, in anger, withheld his racham ·compassionate love·?” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 10 Then I thought, “I will appeal to this: the years of the right hand of haElyon [the Most High].” 11 I will remember Yah’s deeds; for I will remember your wonders of old. 12 I will also meditate on all your work, and consider your doings. 13 Your way, God, is in the sanctuary. What deity is great like God? 14 You are the God who does wonders. You have made your strength known among the peoples. 15 You have redeemed your people with your arm, the sons of Jacob [Supplanter] and Joseph [May he add]. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 16 The waters saw you, God. The waters saw you, and they writhed. The depths also convulsed. 17 The clouds poured out water. The skies resounded with thunder. Your arrows also flashed around. 18 The voice of your thunder was in the whirlwind. The lightnings lit up the world. The earth trembled and shook. 19 Your way was through the sea; your paths through the great waters. Your footsteps were not known. 20 You led your people like a flock, by the hand of Moses [Drawn out] and Aaron [Light-bringer]. Chapter 78A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by Asaph. Context: A historical recollection and reflection on God’s judgment on Egypt, Torah instruction, and Israel’s responses to God in the wilderness. Calling the witness of history from Exodus to Deuteronomy compare to God’s actions in establishing King David. (Possibly in the time of Isaiah 1) 1 Hear my teaching, my people. Turn your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable. I will explain mysteries from days of old, 3 Which we have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· and known, and our fathers have told us. 4 We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to come the tehilahot ·praise songs· of Adonai , his strength, and his wondrous deeds that he has done. 5 For he established a testimony in Jacob [Supplanter], and appointed a teaching in Israel [God prevails], which he enjoined our fathers, that they should make them known to their children; 6 that the generation to come might know, even the children who should be born; who should arise and tell their children, 7 that they might set their hope in God, and not forget God’s deeds, but keep his mitzvot ·instructions·, 8 and might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation, a generation that didn’t make their hearts loyal, whose spirit was not steadfast with God. 9 The children of Ephraim [Fruit], being armed and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle. 10 They didn’t keep God’s covenant, and refused to walk in his torot ·teachings·. 11 They forgot his doings, his wondrous deeds that he had shown them. 12 He did marvelous things in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt [Abode of slavery], in the field of Zoan. 13 He split the sea, and caused them to pass through. He made the waters stand as a heap. 14 In the daytime he also led them with a cloud, and all night with a light of fire. 15 He split rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink abundantly as out of the depths. 16 He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers. 17 Yet they still went on to sin against him, to rebel against haElyon [the Most High] in the desert. 18 They tempted God in their heart by asking food according to their desire. 19 Yes, they spoke against God. They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness? 20 Behold, he struck the rock, so that waters gushed out, and streams overflowed. Can he give bread also? Will he provide meat for his people?” 21 Therefore Adonai sh'ma ·heard obeyed·, and was angry. A fire was kindled against Jacob [Supplanter], anger also went up against Israel [God prevails], 22 because they didn’t believe in God, and didn’t trust in his yishu'ah ·salvation·. 23 Yet he enjoined the skies above, and opened the doors of heaven. 24 He rained down manna ·what is it· on them to eat, and gave them food from the sky. 25 Man ate the bread of angels. He sent them food to the full. 26 He caused the east wind to blow in the sky. By his power he guided the south wind. 27 He rained also meat on them as the dust; winged birds as the sand of the seas. 28 He let them fall in the middle of their camp, around their habitations. 29 So they ate, and were well filled. He gave them their own desire. 30 They didn’t turn from their cravings. Their food was yet in their mouths, 31 when the anger of God went up against them, killed some of their fattest, and struck down the young men of Israel [God prevails]. 32 For all this they still sinned, and didn’t believe in his wondrous works. 33 Therefore he consumed their days in vanity, and their years in terror. 34 When he killed them, then they inquired after him. They made teshuvah ·complete return· and sought God earnestly. 35 They remembered that God was their rock, haElyon [the Most High] God, their redeemer. 36 But they flattered him with their mouth, and lied to him with their tongue. 37 For their heart was not right with him, neither were they faithful in his covenant. 38 But he, being merciful, forgave iniquity, and didn’t destroy them. Yes, many times he turned his anger away, and didn’t stir up all his wrath. 39 He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind that passes away, and does not come again. 40 How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness, and grieved him in the desert! 41 They turned again and tempted God, and provoked the haKadosh Isra'el [the Holy One of God prevails]. 42 They didn’t remember his hand, nor the day when he redeemed them from the adversary; 43 how he set his signs in Egypt [Abode of slavery], his wonders in the field of Zoan, 44 he turned their rivers into blood, and their streams, so that they could not drink. 45 He sent among them swarms of flies, which devoured them; and frogs, which destroyed them. 46 He gave also their increase to the caterpillar, and their labor to the locust. 47 He destroyed their vines with hail, their sycamore fig trees with frost. 48 He gave over their livestock also to the hail, and their flocks to hot thunderbolts. 49 He threw on them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, indignation, and trouble, and a band of angels of evil. 50 He made a path for his anger. He didn’t spare their soul from death, but gave their life over to the pestilence, 51 and struck all the firstborn in Egypt [Abode of slavery], the chief of their strength in the tents of Ham [Hot, Intensity, Passion]. 52 But he led out his own people like sheep, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock. 53 He led them safely, so that they were not afraid, but the sea overwhelmed their enemies. 54 He brought them to the border of his sanctuary, to this mountain, which his right hand had taken. 55 He also divorced and drove out the nations before them, allotted them for an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel [God prevails] to dwell in their tents. 56 Yet they tempted and rebelled against haElyon [the Most High] God, and didn’t keep his testimonies; 57 but turned back, and dealt treacherously like their fathers. They were turned aside like a deceitful bow. 58 For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their engraved images. 59 When God sh'ma ·heard obeyed· this, he was angry, and greatly abhorred Israel [God prevails]; 60 So that he abandoned the tent of Shiloh, the tent which he placed among men; 61 and delivered his strength into captivity, his glory into the adversary’s hand. 62 He also gave his people over to the sword, and was angry with his inheritance. 63 Fire devoured their young men. Their virgins had no wedding song. 64 Their priests fell by the sword, and their widows couldn’t weep. 65 Then the Lord awakened as one out of sleep, like a mighty man who shouts by reason of wine. 66 He struck his adversaries backward. He put them to a perpetual reproach. 67 Moreover he rejected the tent of Joseph [May he add], and didn’t choose the tribe of Ephraim [Fruit], 68 But chose the tribe of Judah [Praised], Mount Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] which he 'ahav ·affectionately loved·. 69 He built his sanctuary like the heights, like the earth which he has established forever. 70 He also chose David [Beloved] his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds; 71 from following the ewes that have their young, he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob [Supplanter], his people, and Israel [God prevails], his inheritance. 72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. Chapter 79A Psalm by Asaph. Context: After Nebuchadnezzar attacks and places kings in tribute, in the last days before exile. This psalm is written post-destruction. (Jer 39). (Reference context: 1 King 8:46-53; 2 King 25:8-12; 2 Chr 36:13-21; Lev 26:27-45; Jer 38:24-40:6 (esp 39:15-40:3)) 1 God, the nations have come into your inheritance. They have defiled your holy temple. They have laid Jerusalem [City of peace] in heaps. 2 They have given the dead bodies of your servants to be food for the birds of the sky, the flesh of your saints to the animals of the earth. 3 Their blood they have shed like water around Jerusalem [City of peace]. There was no one to bury them. 4 We have become a reproach to our neighbors, a scoffing and derision to those who are around us. 5 How long, Adonai ? Will you be angry forever? Will your jealousy burn like fire? 6 Pour out your wrath on the nations that don’t know you; on the kingdoms that don’t call on your name; 7 For they have devoured Jacob [Supplanter], and destroyed his homeland. 8 Don’t hold the iniquities of our forefathers against us. Let your tender racham ·merciful love· speedily meet us, for we are in desperate need. 9 Help us, God of our yesha' ·salvation·, for the kavod ·weighty glory· of your name. Deliver us, and forgive our sins, for your name’s sake. 10 Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Let it be known among the nations, before our eyes, that vengeance for your servants’ blood is being poured out. 11 Let the sighing of the prisoner come before you. According to the greatness of your power, preserve those who are sentenced to death. 12 Pay back to our neighbors seven times into their bosom their reproach with which they have reproached you, Lord. 13 So we, your people and sheep of your pasture, will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you forever. We will tehilah ·praise song· you forever, to all generations. Chapter 80For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Lilies of the Covenant.” A Psalm by Asaph. 1 Hear us, Ro'i [Shepherd Provider] of Israel [God prevails], you who lead Joseph [May he add] like a flock, you who sit above the cherubim, shine out. 2 Before Ephraim [Fruit] and Benjamin [Son of right hand, Son of south] and Manasseh [Causing to forget], stir up your might! Come to bring yishu'ah ·salvation· for us! 3 Turn us again, God. Cause your face to shine, and we will be saved. 4 Adonai Elohei Tzva'ot [Yahweh God Commander of heaven’s armies], How long will you be angry against the prayer of your people? 5 You have fed them with the bread of tears, and given them tears to drink in large measure. 6 You make us a source of contention to our neighbors. Our enemies laugh among themselves. 7 Turn us again, Elohim Tzva'ot [God Commander of heaven’s armies]. Cause your face to shine, and we will be saved. 8 You brought a vine out of Egypt [Abode of slavery]. You divorced and drove out the nations, and planted it. 9 You cleared the ground for it. It took deep root, and filled the land. 10 The mountains were covered with its shadow. Its boughs were like God’s cedars. 11 It sent out its branches to the sea, Its shoots to the River. 12 Why have you broken down its walls, so that all those who pass by the way pluck it? 13 The boar out of the wood ravages it. The wild animals of the field feed on it. 14 Turn again, we beg you, Elohim Tzva'ot [God Commander of heaven’s armies]. Look down from heaven, and see, and visit this vine, 15 the stock which your right hand planted, the branch that you made strong for yourself. 16 It’s burned with fire. It’s cut down. They perish at your rebuke. 17 Let your hand be on the man of your right hand, on the son of man whom you made strong for yourself. 18 So we will not turn away from you. Revive us, and we will call on your name. 19 Turn us again, Adonai Elohei Tzva'ot [Yahweh God Commander of heaven’s armies]. Cause your face to shine, and we will be saved. Chapter 81For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. By Asaph. Context: A reflection of God’s perspective and His promises to Israel upon removing them from Egypt, Israel refuses to fully obey. (Exodus to Judges) Historically, Levites sang this Psalm on Fifth Day in the Temple. Sung at the New Year with Psalm 24:9-10. 1 Sing aloud to God, our strength! Make a joyful shout to the God of Jacob [Supplanter]! 2 Raise a song, and bring here the tambourine, the pleasant lyre with the harp. 3 Blow the shofar ·ram horn· at the New Moon, at the full moon, on our feast day. 4 For it is a statute for Israel [God prevails], an judgement of the God of Jacob [Supplanter]. 5 He appointed it in Joseph [May he add] for a testimony, when he went out over the land of Egypt [Abode of slavery], I sh'ma ·heard obeyed· a language that I didn’t know. 6 “I removed his shoulder from the burden. His hands were freed from the basket. 7 You called in trouble, and I delivered you. I answered you in the secret place of thunder. I tested you at the waters of Meribah [Quarreling].” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 “Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, my people, and I will testify to you, Israel [God prevails], if you would listen to me! 9 There shall be no strange deity in you, neither shall you hawa ·bow low, prostrate· to worship any foreign deity. 10 I am Adonai , your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt [Abode of slavery]. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it. 11 But my people didn’t sh'ma ·hear obey· my voice. Israel [God prevails] desired none of me. 12 So I let them go after the stubbornness of their hearts, that they might walk in their own counsels. 13 Oh that my people would sh'ma ·hear obey· me, that Israel [God prevails] would walk in my ways! 14 I would soon subdue their enemies, and turn my hand against their adversaries. 15 The haters of Adonai would cringe before him, and their punishment would last forever. 16 But he would have also fed them with the finest of the wheat. I will satisfy you with honey out of the rock.” Chapter 82A Psalm by Asaph. Context: Reflection on the duties of a Judge. (Similar to 2 Chr 19:5-7) Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on Third Day in the Temple. 1 God presides in the great assembly. He judges among the deities. 2 “How long will you judge unjustly, and show partiality to the wicked?” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 3 “Defend the weak, the poor, and the fatherless. Maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. 4 Rescue the weak and needy. Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.” 5 They don’t know, neither do they understand. They walk back and forth in darkness. All the foundations of the earth are shaken. 6 I said, “You are elohim ·judges, gods·, all of you are sons of haElyon [the Most High]. 7 Nevertheless you shall die like men, and fall like one of the rulers.” 8 Arise, God, judge the earth, for you inherit all of the nations. Chapter 83A song. A Psalm by Asaph. Context: Ammonites [Tribal people] and many other nations gather together against Judah [Praised]. Judah [Praised] gathers together to ask for help from Yahweh. Despite being outnumbered, God causes Judah [Praised] to prevail. (2 Chr 20; 7:14; Kings 8:44-45) Historically, leaders of various countries have vocally repeated Psalm 83:4 including: Haman (Ester 3:6), Hitler Nazi leader of Germany, and some leaders of Arabic middle eastern countries in the 2010 decade. 1 God, don’t keep silent. Don’t keep silent, and don’t be still, God. 2 For, behold, your enemies are stirred up. Those who hate you have lifted up their heads. 3 They conspire with cunning against your people. They plot against your cherished ones. 4 “Come,” they say, “let’s destroy them as a nation, that the name of Israel [God prevails] may be remembered no more.” 5 For they have conspired together with one mind. They form an alliance against you. 6 The tents of Edom [Red] and the Ishmaelites [Pays attention God]; Moab [From father], and the Hagrites; 7 Gebal, Ammon [Tribal people], and Amalek [Man who licks up]; Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre; 8 Assyria [Level plain] also is joined with them. They have helped the children of Lot [Veil, Covering]. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 Do to them as you did to Midian [Strife], as to Sisera, as to Jabin, at the river Kishon; 10 who perished at Endor, who became as dung for the earth. 11 Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb; yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna; 12 who said, “Let us take possession of God’s pasture lands.” 13 My God, make them like tumbleweed; like chaff before the wind. 14 As the fire that burns the forest, as the flame that sets the mountains on fire, 15 so pursue them with your tempest, and terrify them with your storm. 16 Fill their faces with confusion, that they may seek your name, Adonai . 17 Let them be disappointed and dismayed forever. Yes, let them be confounded and perish; 18 that they may know that you alone, whose name is Adonai , are haElyon [the Most High] over all the earth. Chapter 84For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). 1 How yadid ·lovely· are your dwellings, Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies]! 2 My soul longs, and even faints for the courts of Adonai . My heart and my flesh cry out for the Elohim Chayim [Living God]. 3 Yes, the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young, near your altars, Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies], my King, and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house. They are always praising you. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you; who have set their hearts on a pilgrimage. 6 Passing through the valley of Weeping, they make it a place of springs. Yes, the autumn rain covers it with blessings. 7 They go from strength to strength. Everyone of them appears before God in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. 8 Adonai , Elohim Tzva'ot [Yahweh, God Commander of heaven’s armies], sh'ma ·hear obey·, my prayer. Give ear to me, God of Jacob [Supplanter]. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 Behold, God our shield, look at the face of your anointed. 10 For a day in your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 11 For Adonai God is a sun and a shield. Adonai will give chen ·grace· and kavod ·weighty glory·. He withholds no good thing from those who walk blamelessly. 12 Adonai Tzva'ot [Yahweh Commander of heaven’s armies], blessed is the man who trusts in you. Chapter 85For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). Context: God hears the humble heart cries of Israel [God prevails] in babel and stirs up Koresh the King of Persia to order the exile Jews to return and build a temple unto Yahweh. (Ezra 1:1-4; Lev 26:36-45) 1 Adonai , you have been favorable to your land. You have restored the fortunes of Jacob [Supplanter]. 2 You have forgiven the iniquity of your people. You have covered all their sin. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 3 You have taken away all your wrath. You have turned from the fierceness of your anger. 4 Turn us, God of our yesha' ·salvation·, and cause your indignation toward us to cease. 5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you draw out your anger to all generations? 6 Won’t you revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7 Show us your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, Adonai . Grant us your yesha' ·salvation·. 8 I will sh'ma ·hear obey· what God, Adonai , will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, his saints; but let them not turn again to folly. 9 Surely his yesha' ·salvation· is near those who fear him, that kavod ·weighty glory· may dwell in our land. 10 Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. 11 Truth springs out of the earth. Righteousness has looked down from heaven. 12 Yes, Adonai will give that which is good. Our land will yield its increase. 13 Righteousness goes before him, And prepares the way for his steps. Chapter 86A Prayer by David [Beloved]. Context: Possibly, when David [Beloved] was pursued by King Saul [Asked for] and David [Beloved] contemplated the ability to do harm to Saul [Asked for] but refused to harm God’s anointed king. (1 Sam 24) 1 Hear, Adonai , and answer me, for I am poor and needy. 2 Preserve my soul, for I am godly. You, my God, save your servant who trusts in you. 3 Show pity on me, Lord, for I call to you all day long. 4 Bring joy to the soul of your servant, for to you, Lord, do I lift up my soul. 5 For you, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive; abundant in cheshed ·loving-kindness· to all those who call on you. 6 Hear, Adonai , my prayer. Listen to the voice of my petitions. 7 In the day of my trouble I will call on you, for you will answer me. 8 There is no one like you among the deities, Lord, nor any deeds like your deeds. 9 All nations you have made will come and hawa ·bow low, prostrate· to worship before you, Lord. They shall glorify your name. 10 For you are great, and do wondrous things. You are God alone. 11 Teach me your way, Adonai . I will walk in your truth. Make my heart undivided to fear your name. 12 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, Lord my God, with my whole heart. I will glorify your name forever more. 13 For your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is great toward me. You have delivered my soul from the lowest Sheol ·Place of the dead·. 14 God, the proud have risen up against me. A company of violent men have sought after my soul, and they don’t hold regard for you before them. 15 But you, Lord, are a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, and abundant in cheshed ·loving-kindness· and truth. 16 Turn to me, and have favor on me! Give your strength to your servant. Save the son of your servant. 17 Show me a sign of your goodness, that those who hate me may see it, and be shamed, because you, Adonai , have helped me, and comforted me. Chapter 87A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]; a Song. (See Num 16). Context: Koresh King of Persia gave an edict, found in Ezra 1:1-4, permitting the Jews to return to Jerusalem [City of peace] and funded the building of the third temple. This is at the conclusion of the Babylon [Confusion] exile. (Ezra 3:7-13) 1 His foundation is in the holy mountains. 2 Adonai 'ahav ·affectionately loves· the gates of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] more than all the dwellings of Jacob [Supplanter]. 3 Glorious things are spoken about you, city of God. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 I will record Rahab and Babylon [Confusion] among those who acknowledge me. Behold, Philistia, Tyre, and also Ethiopia: “This one was born there.” 5 Yes, of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] it will be said, “This one and that one was born in her;” haElyon [the Most High] himself will establish her. 6 Adonai will count, when he writes up the peoples, “This one was born there.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 7 Those who sing as well as those who dance say, “All my springs are in you.” Chapter 88A Song. A Psalm by the sons of Korach [Bald one, Frost]. (See Num 16). For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Suffering of Affliction.” A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by Heman, the Ezrahite. Context: Generally considered the saddest Psalm, due to lacking the praise of God. (1 Chr 6:33-37) 1 Adonai , the God of my yishu'ah ·salvation·, I have cried day and night before you. 2 Let my prayer enter into your presence. Turn your ear to my cry. 3 For my soul is full of troubles. My life draws near to Sheol ·Place of the dead·. 4 I am counted among those who go down into the pit (of Abbadon, the unrighteous side of Sheol). I am like a man who has no help, 5 set apart among the dead, like the slain who lie in the grave, whom you remember no more. They are cut off from your hand. 6 You have laid me in the lowest pit (of Abbadon, the unrighteous side of Sheol), in the darkest depths. 7 Your wrath lies heavily on me. You have afflicted me with all your waves. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 8 You have taken my friends from me. You have made me an abomination to them. I am confined, and I can’t escape. 9 My eyes are dim from grief. I have called on you daily, Adonai . I have spread out my hands to you. 10 Do you show wonders to the dead? Do the departed spirits rise up and yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you? Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 11 Is your cheshed ·loving-kindness· declared in the grave? Or your faithfulness in Abaddon ·Destruction, Unrighteous side of Sheol·? 12 Are your wonders made known in the dark? Or your righteousness in the land of forgetfulness? 13 But to you, Adonai , I have cried. In the morning, my prayer comes before you. 14 Adonai , why do you reject my soul? Why do you hide your face from me? 15 I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up. While I suffer your terrors, I am distracted. 16 Your fierce wrath has gone over me. Your terrors have cut me off. 17 They came around me like water all day long. They completely engulfed me. 18 You have put 'ahav ·affectionate lover· and friend far from me, and my friends into darkness. Chapter 89A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by Ethan, the Ezrahite. Context: Reflecting on God’s covenant with David [Beloved] and the Messiah son of David [Beloved], yet it appears to the Psalmist that God is not upholding the covenant. Can the son of David [Beloved] exist if David’s house is fallen? This Psalmist is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:31. (2 Sam 7:11-21; Lev 26:36-45; 1 King 11:1-13, 11:26-43, 12:16-19) 1 I will sing of the cheshed ·loving-kindness· of Adonai forever. With my mouth, I will make known your faithfulness to all generations. 2 I indeed declare, “Love stands firm forever. You established the heavens. Your faithfulness is in them.” 3 “I have made a covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties· with my chosen one, I have sworn to David [Beloved], my servant, 4 ‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build up your throne to all generations.’” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 5 The heavens will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· of your wonders, Adonai ; your faithfulness also in the assembly of the holy ones. 6 For who in the skies can be compared to Adonai ? Who among the sons of the heavenly beings is like Adonai , 7 a very awesome God in the council of the holy ones, to be feared above all those who are around him? 8 Adonai , Elohim Tzva'ot [Yahweh, God Commander of heaven’s armies], who is a mighty one, like you? Yah, your faithfulness is around you. 9 You rule the pride of the sea. When its waves rise up, you calm them. 10 You have broken Rahab in pieces, like one of the slain. You have scattered your enemies with your mighty arm. 11 The heavens are yours. The earth also is yours; the world and its fullness. You have founded them. 12 The north and the south, you have created them. Tabor and Hermon [Devoted to destruction] rejoice in your name. 13 You have a mighty arm. Your hand is strong, and your right hand is exalted. 14 Righteousness and mishpat ·justice· are the foundation of your throne. Loving kindness and truth go before your face. 15 Blessed are the people who learn to acclaim you. They walk in the light of your presence, Adonai . 16 In your name they rejoice all day. In your righteousness, they are exalted. 17 For you are the glory of their strength. In your favor, our horn will be exalted. 18 For our shield belongs to Adonai ; our king to the haKadosh Isra'el [the Holy One of God prevails]. 19 Then you spoke in vision to your saints, and said, “I have given strength to the warrior. I have exalted a young man from the people. 20 I have found David [Beloved], my servant. I have anointed him with my holy oil, 21 with whom my hand shall be established. My arm will also strengthen him. 22 No enemy will tax him. No wicked man will oppress him. 23 I will beat down his adversaries before him, and strike those who hate him. 24 But my faithfulness and my cheshed ·loving-kindness· will be with him. In my name, his horn will be exalted. 25 I will set his hand also on the sea, and his right hand on the rivers. 26 He will call to me, ‘You are my Father, my God, and the rock of my yishu'ah ·salvation·!’ 27 I will also appoint him my firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth. 28 I will keep my cheshed ·loving-kindness· for him forever more. My covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties· will stand firm with him. 29 I will also make his offspring endure forever, and his throne as the days of heaven. 30 If his children forsake my Torah ·Teaching·, and don’t walk in my judgments; 31 if they break my regulations, and don’t keep my mitzvot ·instructions·; 32 then I will punish their sin with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes. 33 But I will not completely take my cheshed ·loving-kindness· from him, nor allow my faithfulness to fail. 34 I will not break my covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties·, nor alter what my lips have uttered. 35 Once have I sworn by my holiness, I will not lie to David [Beloved]. 36 His offspring will endure forever, his throne like the sun before me. 37 It will be established forever like the moon, the faithful witness in the sky.” Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 38 But you have rejected and spurned. You have been angry with your anointed. 39 You have renounced the covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties· of your servant. You have defiled his crown in the dust. 40 You have broken down all his hedges. You have brought his strongholds to ruin. 41 All who pass by the way rob him. He has become a reproach to his neighbors. 42 You have exalted the right hand of his adversaries. You have made all of his enemies rejoice. 43 Yes, you turn back the edge of his sword, and haven’t supported him in battle. 44 You have ended his splendor, and thrown his throne down to the ground. 45 You have shortened the days of his youth. You have covered him with shame. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 46 How long, Adonai ? Will you hide yourself forever? Will your wrath burn like fire? 47 Remember how short my time is! For what vanity have you created all the children of men! 48 What man is he who shall live and not see death, who shall deliver his soul from the power of Sheol ·Place of the dead·? Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 49 Lord, where are your former cheshed ·loving-kindnesses·, which you swore to David [Beloved] in your faithfulness? 50 Remember, Lord, the reproach of your servants, how I bear in my heart the taunts of all the mighty peoples, 51 With which your enemies have mocked, Adonai , with which they have mocked the footsteps of your anointed one. 52 Blessed be Adonai forever more. Amen v'Amen ·So be it and So be it·. Chapter 90A Prayer by Moses [Drawn out], the man of God. Context: Near the end of Moses [Drawn out] life, possibly just after the blessings and curses in Deut 30. Moses [Drawn out] contemplates the shortness of life and being in right relationship with Adonai. (Deut 31-34) 1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place for all generations. 2 Before the mountains were born, before you had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, you are God. 3 You turn man to destruction, saying, “Teshuvah ·Completely return·, you children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are just like yester day, or a night watch. 5 You sweep them away as they sleep. In the morning they sprout like new grass. 6 In the morning it sprouts and springs up. By evening, it is withered and dry. 7 For we are consumed in your anger. We are troubled in your wrath. 8 You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence. 9 For all our days have passed away in your wrath. We bring our years to an end as a sigh. 10 The days of our years are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty years; yet their pride is but labor and sorrow, for it passes quickly, and we fly away. 11 Who knows the power of your anger, your wrath according to the fear that is due to you? 12 So teach us to count our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. 13 Relent, Adonai ! How long? Have compassion on your servants! 14 Satisfy us in the morning with your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. 15 Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen evil. 16 Let your work appear to your servants; your glory to their children. 17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be on us; establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands. Chapter 91Context: Possibly a reflection of trust during David’s many experiences in battle and seeing God’s sovereign hand in disaster. The conclusion refers to Messiah being revealed as promised in covenant. (Lev 26:6-8 parallel to Ps 91:7-8; 1 Kings 8:22-27) 1 He who dwells in the secret place of haElyon [the Most High] will rest in the shadow of Shaddai [Almighty]. 2 I will say of Adonai , “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.” 3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers. Under his wings you will take refuge. His faithfulness is your shield and rampart. 5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day; 6 nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that wastes at noonday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you. 8 You will only look with your eyes, and see the recompense of the wicked. 9 Because you have made Adonai your refuge, and haElyon [the Most High] your dwelling place, 10 no evil shall happen to you, neither shall any plague come near your dwelling. 11 For he will enjoin his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. 12 They will bear you up in their hands, so that you won’t dash your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread on the lion and cobra. You will trample the young lion and the serpent underfoot. 14 “Because he has set his chasak ·to set one’s affection, to make bands· on me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high, because he has known my name. 15 He will call on me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him, and honor him. 16 I will satisfy him with long life, and show him my yishu'ah ·salvation·.” Chapter 92A Psalm. A song for the Sabbath ·To cease· day. Context: Psalm for Sabbath. Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on Sabbath ·To cease· Day in the Temple. (No reference) 1 It is a good thing to yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , to sing zahmar ·musical praise· to your name, Most High; 2 to proclaim your cheshed ·loving-kindness· in the morning, and your faithfulness every night, 3 with the ten-stringed lute, with the harp, and with the lyre's solemn higgayon ·meditation·. 4 For you, Adonai , have made me glad through your work. I will triumph in the works of your hands. 5 How great are your works, Adonai ! Your thoughts are very deep. 6 A senseless man does not know, neither does a fool understand this: 7 though the wicked spring up as the grass, and all the evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. 8 But you, Adonai , are on high forever more. 9 For, behold, your enemies, Adonai , for, behold, your enemies shall perish. All the evildoers will be scattered. 10 But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox. I am anointed with fresh oil. 11 My eye has also seen my enemies. My ears have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· of the wicked enemies who rise up against me. 12 The upright shall flourish like the palm tree. He will grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 13 They are planted in Adonai ’s house. They will flourish in our God’s courts. 14 They will still produce fruit in old age. They will be full of sap and green, 15 to show that Adonai is upright. He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. Chapter 93Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on Sixth Day in the Temple. (No reference) 1 Adonai reigns! He is clothed with majesty! Adonai is armed with strength. The world also is established. It can’t be moved. 2 Your throne is established from long ago. You are from everlasting. 3 The floods have lifted up, Adonai , the floods have lifted up their voice. The floods lift up their waves. 4 Above the voices of many waters, the mighty breakers of the sea, Adonai on high is mighty. 5 Your testimonies stand firm. Holiness adorns your house, Adonai , forever more. Chapter 94Context: God vindicates the upright while still judging the people and the wicked. (Jer 39:15-18) Historically, Levites [Descendants of United with] sang this Psalm on Fourth Day in the Temple. 1 Adonai , you God to whom vengeance belongs, you God to whom vengeance belongs, shine out. 2 Rise up, you judge of the earth. Pay back the proud what they deserve. 3 Adonai , how long will the wicked, how long will the wicked triumph? 4 They pour out arrogant words. All the evildoers boast. 5 They break your people in pieces, Adonai , and afflict your heritage. 6 They kill the widow and the alien, and murder the fatherless. 7 They say, “Yah will not see, neither will Jacob [Supplanter]’s God consider.” 8 Consider, you senseless among the people; you fools, when will you be wise? 9 He who implanted the ear, won’t he sh'ma ·hear obey·? He who formed the eye, won’t he see? 10 He who disciplines the nations, won’t he punish? He who teaches man knows. 11 Adonai knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile. 12 Blessed is the man whom you discipline, Yah, and teach out of your Torah ·Teaching·; 13 that you may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked. 14 For Adonai won’t reject his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance. 15 For judgment will teshuvah ·completely return· to righteousness. All the upright in heart shall follow it. 16 Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand up for me against the evildoers? 17 Unless Adonai had been my help, my soul would have soon lived in silence. 18 When I said, “My foot is slipping!” Your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, Adonai , held me up. 19 In the multitude of my thoughts within me, your comforts delight my soul. 20 Shall the throne of wickedness have fellowship with you, which brings about mischief by statute? 21 They gather themselves together against the soul of the upright, and condemn the innocent blood. 22 But Adonai has been my high tower, my God, the rock of my refuge. 23 He has brought on them their own iniquity, and will cut them off in their own wickedness. Adonai , our God, will cut them off. Chapter 95Context: During the Exodus. Reference to early in exodus or after the judgment of 40 years in desert. Ps 95:8 references the events at Massah [Testing] in the desert. (Ex 17:7 (context 17:1-7); Num 11:20-25) (Consider also Ex 6:6-7, Num 11:18-23, 14:11-25, 26:64-65; Deut 1:25-40, 9:27-28; Joshua [Salvation Yah] 4:20-24) 1 Oh come, let’s sing to Adonai . Let’s shout aloud to the rock of our yesha' ·salvation·! 2 Let’s come before his presence with thanksgiving. Let’s extol him with songs! 3 For Adonai is a great God, a great King above all deities. 4 In his hand are the deep places of the earth. The heights of the mountains are also his. 5 The sea is his, and he made it. His hands formed the dry land. 6 Oh come, let’s worship and hawa ·bow low, prostrate·. Let’s kneel before Yahweh 'Oseinu [Yahweh our Maker], 7 for he is our God. We are the people of his pasture, and the sheep in his care. Today, oh that you would sh'ma ·hear obey· his voice! 8 Don’t harden your heart, as at Meribah [Quarreling], as in the day of Massah [Testing] in the wilderness, 9 when your fathers tempted me, tested me, and saw my work. 10 Forty long years I loathed that generation, and said, “This is a people that errors in their heart. They have not known my ways.” 11 Therefore I swore in my wrath, “They won’t enter into my rest.” Chapter 96Context: When David [Beloved] brings the ark to the city of David [Beloved], Jerusalem [City of peace]. (1 Chr 16:23-33) 1 Sing to Adonai a new song! Sing to Adonai , all the earth. 2 Sing to Adonai ! Bless his name! Proclaim his yishu'ah ·salvation· from day to day! 3 Declare his kavod ·weighty glory· among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples. 4 For great is Adonai , and greatly to be praised! He is to be feared above all deities. 5 For all the deities of the peoples are idols, but Adonai made the heavens. 6 Honor and majesty are before him. Strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7 Ascribe to Adonai , you families of nations, ascribe to Adonai kavod ·weighty glory· and strength. 8 Ascribe to Adonai the kavod ·weighty glory· due to his name. Bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9 Hawa ·Bow low, prostrate· to worship Adonai in holy array. Tremble before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the nations, “Adonai reigns.” The world is also established. It can’t be moved. He will judge the peoples with equity. 11 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice. Let the sea roar, and its fullness! 12 Let the field and all that is in it exult! Then all the trees of the woods shall sing for joy 13 before Adonai ; for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, the peoples with his truth. Chapter 97 1 Adonai reigns! Let the earth rejoice! Let the multitude of islands be glad! 2 Clouds and darkness are around him. Righteousness and mishpat ·justice· are the foundation of his throne. 3 A fire goes before him, and burns up his adversaries on every side. 4 His lightning lights up the world. The earth sees, and trembles. 5 The mountains melt like wax at the presence of Adonai , at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. 6 The heavens declare his righteousness. All the peoples have seen his kavod ·weighty glory·. 7 Let all them be shamed who abad ·serve· engraved images, who boast in their idols. Hawa ·Bow low, prostrate· to worship him, all you angels! 8 Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] sh'ma ·heard obeyed· and was glad. The daughters of Judah [Praised] rejoiced, because of your judgments, Adonai . 9 For you, Adonai , are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all deities. 10 You who 'ahav ·affectionately love· Adonai , hate evil. He preserves the souls of his saints. He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked. 11 Light is sown for the upright, and gladness for the upright in heart. 12 Be glad in Adonai , you upright people! Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to his holy Name. Chapter 98A Psalm. Context: Praise to God for victory in full view of the nations. (No reference) 1 Sing to Adonai a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand, and his holy arm, have worked salvation for him. 2 Adonai has made known his yishu'ah ·salvation·. He has openly shown his righteousness in the sight of the nations. 3 He has remembered his cheshed ·loving-kindness· and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel [God prevails]. All the ends of the earth have seen the yishu'ah ·salvation· of our God. 4 Make a joyful noise to Adonai , all the earth! Burst out and sing for joy, yes, sing zahmar ·musical praise·! 5 Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to Adonai with the harp, with the harp and the voice of melody. 6 With trumpets and sound of the shofar ·ram horn·, make a joyful noise before the King, Adonai . 7 Let the sea roar with its fullness; the world, and those who dwell therein. 8 Let the rivers clap their hands. Let the mountains sing for joy together. 9 Let them sing before Adonai , for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity. Chapter 99 1 Adonai reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He sits enthroned among the cherubim. Let the earth be moved. 2 Adonai is great in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. He is high above all the peoples. 3 Let them yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your great and awesome name. He is Holy! 4 The King’s strength also 'ahav ·affectionately loves· mishpat ·justice·. You do establish equity. You execute mishpat ·justice· and righteousness in Jacob [Supplanter]. 5 Exalt Yahweh Eloheikhem [Yahweh our God]. Hawa ·Bow low, prostrate· to worship at his footstool. He is Holy! 6 Moses [Drawn out] and Aaron [Light-bringer] were among his priests, Samuel among those who call on his name; they called on Adonai , and he answered them. 7 He spoke to them in the pillar of cloud. They kept his testimonies, the statute that he gave them. 8 You answered them, Yahweh Eloheikhem [Yahweh our God]. You are a God who forgave them, although you took vengeance for their doings. 9 Exalt Adonai , our God. Hawa ·Bow low, prostrate· to worship at his holy hill, for Adonai , our God, is holy! Chapter 100A Psalm of thanksgiving. Context: Psalm for Thanksgiving; possibly sung for giving a Thanksgiving offering. (No reference) 1 Shout for joy to Adonai , all you lands! 2 Abad ·Serve· Adonai with gladness. Come before his presence with singing. 3 Know that Adonai , he is God. It is he who has made us, and we are his. We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, into his courts with tehilahot ·praise songs·. Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to him, and bless his name. 5 For Adonai is good. His cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever, his faithfulness to all generations. Chapter 101A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 I will sing of cheshed ·loving-kindness· and mishpat ·justice·. To you, Adonai , I will sing zahmar ·musical praise·. 2 I will be careful to live a blameless life. When will you come to me? I will walk within my house with a blameless heart. 3 I will set no vile thing before my eyes. I hate the deeds of faithless men. They will not cling to me. 4 A perverse heart will be far from me. I will have nothing to do with evil. 5 I will silence whoever secretly slanders his neighbor. I won’t tolerate one who is haughty and conceited. 6 My eyes will be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me. He who walks in a perfect way, he will serve me. 7 He who practices deceit won’t dwell within my house. He who speaks falsehood won’t be established before my eyes. 8 Morning by morning, I will destroy all the wicked of the land; to cut off all the workers of iniquity from Adonai ’s city. Chapter 102A Prayer of one afflicted, when he is overwhelmed and pours out his complaint before Adonai . 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my prayer, Adonai ! Let my cry come to you. 2 Don’t hide your face from me in the day of my distress. Turn your ear to me. Answer me quickly in the day when I call. 3 For my days consume away like smoke. My bones are burned as a torch. 4 My heart is blighted like grass, and withered, for I forget to eat my bread. 5 By reason of the voice of my groaning, my bones stick to my skin. 6 I am like a pelican of the wilderness. I have become as an owl of the waste places. 7 I watch, and have become like a sparrow that is alone on the housetop. 8 My enemies reproach me all day. Those who are mad at me use my name as a curse. 9 For I have eaten ashes like bread, and mixed my drink with tears, 10 Because of your indignation and your wrath, for you have taken me up, and thrown me away. 11 My days are like a long shadow. I have withered like grass. 12 But you, Adonai , will remain forever; your renown endures to all generations. 13 You will arise and have racham ·merciful love· on Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]; for it is time to have mercy on her. Yes, the set time has come. 14 For your servants take pleasure in her stones, and have pity even on her dust. 15 So the nations will fear Adonai ’s name; all the kings of the earth your kavod ·weighty glory·. 16 For Adonai has built up Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. He has appeared in his kavod ·weighty glory·. 17 He has responded to the prayer of the destitute, and has not despised their prayer. 18 This will be written for the generation to come. A people which will be created will Halleluyah ·praise Yah·. 19 For he has looked down from the height of his sanctuary. From heaven, Adonai saw the earth; 20 to sh'ma ·hear obey· the groans of the prisoner; to free those who are condemned to death; 21 that men may declare Adonai ’s name in Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], and his tehilah ·praise song· in Jerusalem [City of peace]; 22 when the peoples are gathered together, the kingdoms, to serve Adonai . 23 He weakened my strength along the course. He shortened my days. 24 I said, “My God, don’t take me away in the middle of my days. Your years are throughout all generations. 25 Of old, you laid the foundation of the earth. The heavens are the work of your hands. 26 They will perish, but you will endure. Yes, all of them will wear out like a garment. You will change them like a cloak, and they will pass away. 27 But you remain the same, your years will have no end. 28 The children of your servants will continue. Their offspring will be established before you.” Chapter 103By David [Beloved]. Context: The son conceived of David’s adultery has died. Then David [Beloved] allows himself to be refreshed and blessed God. (2 Sam 12:13-23) 1 Praise Adonai , my soul! All that is within me, praise his holy name! 2 Praise Adonai , my soul, and don’t forget all his benefits; 3 who forgives all your sins; who heals all your diseases; 4 who redeems your life from destruction; who crowns you with cheshed ·loving-kindness· and tender racham ·merciful love·; 5 who satisfies your desire with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. 6 Adonai executes righteous acts, and mishpat ·justice· for all who are oppressed. 7 He made known his ways to Moses [Drawn out], his deeds to the children of Israel [God prevails]. 8 Adonai is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in cheshed ·loving-kindness·. 9 He will not always accuse; neither will he stay angry forever. 10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor repaid us for our iniquities. 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his cheshed ·loving-kindness· toward those who fear him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 13 Like a father has racham ·compassionate merciful love· on his children, so Adonai has racham ·compassionate merciful love· on those who fear him. 14 For he knows how we are made. He remembers that we are dust. 15 As for man, his days are like grass. As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. 16 For the wind passes over it, and it is gone. Its place remembers it no more. 17 But Adonai ’s cheshed ·loving-kindness· is from everlasting to everlasting with those who fear him, his righteousness to children’s children; 18 to those who keep his covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties·, to those who remember to obey his precepts. 19 Adonai has established his throne in the heavens. His kingdom rules over all. 20 Praise Adonai , you angels of his, who are mighty in strength, who fulfill his word, Sh'ma ·hearing obeying· the voice of his word. 21 Praise Adonai , all you armies of his, you servants of his, who do his pleasure. 22 Praise Adonai , all you works of his, in all places of his dominion. Praise Adonai , my soul! Chapter 104Context: Praising God for His creation and wonders. Similar topics as in Gen 1-2 and Job 38-39. (Job 38-39) 1 Bless Adonai , my soul. Adonai , my God, you are very great. You are clothed with honor and majesty. 2 He covers himself with light as with a garment. He stretches out the heavens like a curtain. 3 He lays the beams of his rooms in the waters. He makes the clouds his chariot. He walks on the wings of the wind. 4 He makes his messengers winds; his servants flames of fire. 5 He laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be moved forever. 6 You covered it with the deep as with a cloak. The waters stood above the mountains. 7 At your rebuke they fled. At the voice of your thunder they hurried away. 8 The mountains rose, the valleys sank down, to the place which you had assigned to them. 9 You have set a boundary that they may not pass over; that they don’t turn again to cover the earth. 10 He sends springs into the valleys. They run among the mountains. 11 They give drink to every animal of the field. The wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12 The birds of the sky nest by them. They sing among the branches. 13 He waters the mountains from his rooms. The earth is filled with the fruit of your works. 14 He causes the grass to grow for the livestock, and plants for man to cultivate, that he may produce food out of the earth: 15 wine that makes glad the heart of man, oil to make his face to shine, and bread that strengthens man’s heart. 16 Adonai ’s trees are well watered, the cedars of Lebanon, which he has planted; 17 where the birds make their nests. The stork makes its home in the cypress trees. 18 The high mountains are for the wild goats. The rocks are a refuge for the rock badgers. 19 He appointed the moon for seasons. The sun knows when to set. 20 You make darkness, and it is night, in which all the animals of the forest prowl. 21 The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their food from God. 22 The sun rises, and they steal away, and lay down in their dens. 23 Man goes out to his work, to his labor until the evening. 24 Adonai , how many are your works! In wisdom have you made them all. The earth is full of your riches. 25 There is the sea, great and wide, in which are innumerable living things, both small and large animals. 26 There the ships go, and leviathan, whom you formed to play there. 27 These all wait for you, that you may give them their food in due season. 28 You give to them; they gather. You open your hand; they are satisfied with good. 29 You hide your face: they are troubled; you take away their breath: they die, and teshuvah ·completely return· to the dust. 30 You send out your Spirit and they are created. You renew the face of the ground. 31 Let the kavod Yahweh ·weighty glory of He sustains breathing· endure forever. Let Adonai rejoice in his works. 32 He looks at the earth, and it trembles. He touches the mountains, and they smoke. 33 I will sing to Adonai as long as I live. I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to my God while I have any being. 34 Let your meditation be sweet to him. I will rejoice in Adonai . 35 Let sinners be consumed out of the earth. Let the wicked be no more. Bless Adonai , my soul. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 105Context: References the history of: God making covenant with the patriarchs. Joseph going down to Egypt. The people of Israel multiply in Egypt. The ten plagues and exodus up and out from Egypt. And God sustaining Israel in the wilderness both physically and spiritually. God provides rulings on how to live upright. (Gen 41-50; Ex 1-23) Historically, sung for Hanukkah along with Psalm 109:26-31. 1 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai ! Call on his name! Make his doings known among the peoples. 2 Sing to him, sing zahmar ·musical praise· to him! Tell of all his marvelous works. 3 Glory in his holy name. Let the heart of those who seek Adonai rejoice. 4 Seek Adonai and his strength. Seek his face forever more. 5 Remember his marvelous works that he has done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth, 6 you offspring of Abraham [Father of a multitude], his servant, you children of Jacob [Supplanter], his chosen ones. 7 He is Adonai , our God. His judgments are in all the earth. 8 He has remembered his covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties· forever, the word which he enjoined to a thousand generations, 9 the covenant which he made with Abraham [Father of a multitude], his oath to Isaac [Laughter], 10 and confirmed the same to Jacob [Supplanter] for a statute; to Israel [God prevails] for an everlasting covenant, 11 saying, “To you I will give the land of Canaan [Humbled], the lot of your inheritance;” 12 when they were but a few men in number, yes, very few, and foreigners in it. 13 They went about from nation to nation, from one kingdom to another people. 14 He allowed no one to do them wrong. Yes, he reproved kings for their sakes, 15 “Don’t touch my anointed ones! Do my prophets no harm!” 16 He called for a famine on the land. He destroyed the food supplies. 17 He sent a man before them. Joseph [May he add] was sold for a slave. 18 They bruised his feet with shackles. His neck was locked in irons, 19 until the time that his word happened, and Adonai ’s word proved him true. 20 The king sent and freed him; even the ruler of peoples, and let him go free. 21 He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all of his possessions; 22 to discipline his princes at his pleasure, and to teach his elders wisdom. 23 Israel [God prevails] also came into Egypt [Abode of slavery]. Jacob [Supplanter] lived in the land of Ham [Hot, Intensity, Passion]. 24 He increased his people greatly, and made them stronger than their adversaries. 25 He turned their heart to hate his people, to conspire against his servants. 26 He sent Moses [Drawn out], his servant, and Aaron [Light-bringer], whom he had chosen. 27 They performed miracles among them, and wonders in the land of Ham [Hot, Intensity, Passion]. 28 He sent darkness, and made it dark. They didn’t rebel against his words. 29 He turned their waters into blood, and killed their fish. 30 Their land swarmed with frogs, even in the rooms of their kings. 31 He spoke, and swarms of flies came, and lice in all their borders. 32 He gave them hail for rain, with lightning in their land. 33 He struck their vines and also their fig trees, and shattered the trees of their country. 34 He spoke, and the locusts came, and the grasshoppers, without number, 35 ate up every plant in their land; and ate up the fruit of their ground. 36 He struck also all the firstborn in their land, the first fruits of all their manhood. 37 He brought them out with silver and gold. There was not one feeble person among his tribes. 38 Egypt [Abode of slavery] was glad when they departed, for the fear of them had fallen on them. 39 He spread a cloud for a covering, fire to give light in the night. 40 They asked, and he brought quails, and satisfied them with the bread of the sky. 41 He opened the rock, and waters gushed out. They ran as a river in the dry places. 42 For he remembered his holy word, and Abraham [Father of a multitude], his servant. 43 He brought his people out with joy, his chosen with singing. 44 He gave them the lands of the nations. They took the labor of the peoples in possession, 45 that they might keep his statutes, and observe his torot ·teachings·. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 106Context: The writer asks God to remember the covenant mercies while recalling Israel’s history. Psalms history: Israel trusts Yahweh with covenant, then Moses in Egypt, exodus out, delay, then entering Canaan and onto the Judges. (References from Exodus to Judges) 1 Praise Adonai ! Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , for he is good, for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 2 Who can utter the mighty acts of Adonai , or sh'ma ·hear obey, fully declare· all his praise? 3 Blessed are those who keep mishpat ·justice·. Blessed is one who does what is right at all times. 4 Remember me, Adonai , with the favor that you show to your people. Visit me with your yishu'ah ·salvation·, 5 that I may see the prosperity of your chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of your nation, that I may glory with your inheritance. 6 We have sinned with our fathers. We have committed iniquity. We have done wickedly. 7 Our fathers didn’t understand your wonders in Egypt [Abode of slavery]. They didn’t remember the multitude of your cheshed ·loving-kindnesses·, but were rebellious at the sea, even at the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea]. 8 Nevertheless he saved them for his name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power known. 9 He rebuked the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea] also, and it was dried up; so he led them through the depths, as through a desert. 10 He saved them from the hand of him who hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. 11 The waters covered their adversaries. There was not one of them left. 12 Then they believed his words. They sang his tehilah ·praise song·. 13 They soon forgot his works. They didn’t wait for his counsel, 14 but gave in to craving in the desert, and tested God in the wasteland. 15 He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their soul. 16 They envied Moses [Drawn out] also in the camp, and Aaron [Light-bringer], Adonai ’s saint. 17 The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, and covered the company of Abiram. 18 A fire was kindled in their company. The flame burned up the wicked. 19 They made a calf in Horeb [Desert], and hawa ·bowed low, prostrated· worshiped a molten image. 20 Thus they exchanged their kavod ·weighty glory· for an image of a bull that eats grass. 21 They forgot God, their source of salvation, who had done great things in Egypt [Abode of slavery], 22 Wondrous works in the land of Ham [Hot, Intensity, Passion], and awesome things by the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea]. 23 Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had Moses [Drawn out], his chosen, not stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, so that he would not destroy them. 24 Yes, they despised the pleasant land. They didn’t believe his word, 25 but murmured in their tents, and didn’t sh'ma ·hear obey· Adonai ’s voice. 26 Therefore he swore to them that he would overthrow them in the wilderness, 27 that he would overthrow their offspring among the nations, and scatter them in the lands. 28 They joined themselves also to Baal Peor, and ate the sacrifices of the dead. 29 Thus they provoked him to anger with their deeds. The plague broke in on them. 30 Then Pinchas [Bronze skin] stood up, and executed judgment, so the plague was stopped. 31 That was credited to him for righteousness, for all generations to come. 32 They angered him also at the waters of Meribah [Quarreling], so that Moses [Drawn out] was troubled for their sakes; 33 because they were rebellious against his spirit, he spoke rashly with his lips. 34 They didn’t destroy the peoples, as Adonai ordered them to do, 35 but mixed themselves with the nations, and learned their works. 36 They abad ·served· their idols, which became a snare to them. 37 Yes, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons. 38 They shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan [Humbled]. The land was polluted with blood. 39 Thus were they defiled with their works, and prostituted themselves in their deeds. 40 Therefore Adonai burned with anger against his people. He abhorred his inheritance. 41 He gave them into the hand of the nations. Those who hated them ruled over them. 42 Their enemies also oppressed them. They were brought into subjection under their hand. 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were rebellious in their counsel, and were brought low in their iniquity. 44 Nevertheless he regarded their distress, when he sh'ma ·heard obeyed· their cry. 45 He remembered for them his covenant, and relented according to the multitude of his cheshed ·loving-kindnesses·. 46 He made them also to be shown racham ·compassionate love· by all those who carried them captive. 47 Save us, Adonai , our God, gather us from among the nations, yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your holy name, to triumph in your tehilah ·praise song·! 48 Blessed be Adonai, the God of Israel [God prevails], from everlasting even to everlasting! Let all the people say, “Amen ·So be it·.” Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 107Context: Written post-exile from Babylon [Confusion]. Recalling God’s dealings with Israel [God prevails] in history and prophecy. (Ezra 1:1-7; Is 45:1-8) (Ps 107:16 references Is 45:2) 1 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , for he is good, for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 2 Let the redeemed by Adonai say so, whom he has redeemed from the hand of the adversary, 3 And gathered out of the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south. 4 They wandered in the wilderness in a desert way. They found no city to live in. 5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. 6 Then they cried to Adonai in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses, 7 he led them also by a straight way, that they might go to a city to live in. 8 Let them yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai for his cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for his wonderful deeds to the children of men! 9 For he satisfies the longing soul. He fills the hungry soul with good. 10 Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron, 11 because they rebelled against the words of God, and condemned the counsel of haElyon [the Most High]. 12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labor. They fell down, and there was no one to help. 13 Then they cried to Adonai in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses. 14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and broke away their chains. 15 Let them yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai for his cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for his wonderful deeds to the children of men! 16 For he has broken the gates of bronze, and cut through bars of iron. 17 Fools are afflicted because of their disobedience, and because of their iniquities. 18 Their soul abhors all kinds of food. They draw near to the gates of death. 19 Then they cry to Adonai in their trouble, he saves them out of their distresses. 20 He sends his word, and heals them, and delivers them from their graves. 21 Let them yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai for his cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for his wonderful deeds to the children of men! 22 Let them offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his deeds with singing. 23 Those who go down to the sea in ships, who do business in great waters; 24 These see Adonai ’s deeds, and his wonders in the deep. 25 For at his word the stormy wind arose, lifting up its towering waves. 26 They mount up to the sky; they go down again to the depths. Their soul melts away because of trouble. 27 They reel back and forth, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits’ end. 28 Then they cry to Adonai in their trouble, and he brings them out of their distress. 29 He makes the storm a calm, so that its waves are still. 30 Then they are glad because it is calm, so he brings them to their desired haven. 31 Let them yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai for his cheshed ·loving-kindness·, for his wonderful deeds for the children of men! 32 Let them exalt him also in the assembly of the people, and praise him in the seat of the elders. 33 He turns rivers into a desert, water springs into a thirsty ground, 34 and a fruitful land into a salt waste, for the wickedness of those who dwell in it. 35 He turns a desert into a pool of water, and a dry land into water springs. 36 There he makes the hungry live, that they may prepare a city to live in, 37 sow fields, plant vineyards, and reap the fruits of increase. 38 He blesses them also, so that they are multiplied greatly. He does not allow their livestock to decrease. 39 Again, they are diminished and bowed down through oppression, trouble, and sorrow. 40 He pours contempt on princes, and causes them to wander in a trackless waste. 41 Yet he lifts the needy out of their affliction, and increases their families like a flock. 42 The upright will see it, and be glad. All the wicked will shut their mouths. 43 Whoever is wise will pay attention to these things. They will consider the cheshed ·loving-kindnesses· of Adonai . Chapter 108A Song. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: David [Beloved] fights in many wars with success, the contemporary battle is not yet finished and the war’s end is not yet determined. (2 Sam 8) 1 My heart is steadfast, God. I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· and I will give kavod ·weighty glory·. 2 Wake up, harp and lyre! I will wake up the dawn. 3 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, Adonai , among the nations. I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you among the peoples. 4 For your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is great above the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 5 Be exalted, God, above the heavens! Let your kavod ·weighty glory· be over all the earth. 6 That your yadid ·beloved· may be delivered, save with your right hand, and answer us. 7 God has spoken from his sanctuary: “In triumph, I will divide Shechem, and measure out the valley of Sukkot. 8 Gilead is mine. Manasseh [Causing to forget] is mine. Ephraim [Fruit] also is my helmet. Judah [Praised] is my scepter. 9 Moab [From father] is my wash pot. I will toss my sandal on Edom [Red]. I will shout over Philistia.” 10 Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who has led me to Edom [Red]? 11 Haven’t you rejected us, God? You don’t go out, God, with our armies. 12 Give us help against the enemy, for the help of man is vain. 13 Through God, we will do valiantly. For it is he who will tread down our enemies. Chapter 109For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Possibly, many friends are unreliable; David [Beloved] flees trusting nearly no one. (1 Sam 22:1-5) Historically, the concluding verses (Ps 109:26-31) are sung for Hanukkah with Psalm 105. 1 God of my tehilah ·praise song·, don’t remain silent, 2 for they have opened the mouth of the wicked and the mouth of deceit against me. They have spoken to me with a lying tongue. 3 They have also surrounded me with words of hatred, and fought against me without a cause. 4 Making teshuvah ·complete return· for my love, they are my adversaries; but I am in prayer. 5 They have rewarded me evil for good, and hatred for my love. 6 Set a wicked man over him. Let an adversary stand at his right hand. 7 When he is judged, let him come out guilty. Let his prayer be turned into sin. 8 Let his days be few. Let another take his office. 9 Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow. 10 Let his children be wandering beggars. Let them be sought from their ruins. 11 Let the creditor seize all that he has. Let strangers plunder the fruit of his labor. 12 Let there be no one to extend kindness to him, neither let there be anyone to have pity on his orphan children. 13 Let his posterity be cut off. In the generation following let their name be blotted out. 14 Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembered by Adonai . Don’t let the sin of his mother be blotted out. 15 Let them be before Adonai continually, that he may cut off their memory from the earth; 16 because he didn’t remember to show kindness, but persecuted the poor and needy man, the broken in heart, to kill them. 17 Yes, he 'ahav ·affectionately loved· cursing, and it came to him. He didn’t delight in blessing, and it was far from him. 18 He clothed himself also with cursing as with his garment. It came into his inward parts like water, like oil into his bones. 19 Let it be to him as the clothing with which he covers himself, for the belt that is always around him. 20 This is the reward of my adversaries from Adonai , of those who speak evil against my soul. 21 But deal with me, Adonai the Lord, for your name’s sake, because your cheshed ·loving-kindness· is good, deliver me; 22 for I am poor and needy. My heart is wounded within me. 23 I fade away like an evening shadow. I am shaken off like a locust. 24 My knees are weak through fasting. My body is thin and lacks fat. 25 I have also become a reproach to them. When they see me, they shake their head. 26 Help me, Adonai , my God. Save me according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·; 27 that they may know that this is your hand; that you, Adonai , have done it. 28 They may curse, but you bless. When they arise, they will be shamed, but your servant shall rejoice. 29 Let my adversaries be clothed with dishonor. Let them cover themselves with their own shame as with a robe. 30 I will give great thanks to Adonai with my mouth. Yes, I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to him among the multitude. 31 For he will stand at the right hand of the needy, to save him from those who judge his soul. Chapter 110A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Messianic Psalm. (No reference) The King Priest that is exemplified in Gen 14:18-20 is discussed in Hebrews 6:13-7:22. 1 Adonai says to adoni [my Lord], “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” 2 Adonai will send out the rod of your strength out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. Rule among your enemies. 3 Your people offer themselves willingly in the day of your power, in holy array. Out of the womb of the morning, you have the dew of your youth. 4 Adonai has sworn, and will not change his mind: “You are a priest forever in the order of Malki-Tzedek [My king Righteousness].” 5 The Lord is at your right hand. He will crush kings in the day of his wrath. 6 He will judge among the nations. He will heap up dead bodies. He will crush the ruler of the whole earth. 7 He will drink of the brook on the way; therefore he will lift up his head. Chapter 111Context: God remembers His covenant, possibly as the Jews exiled in Babylon [Confusion] see covenant faithfulness fulfilled by God’s regathering and the rebuilding of the Temple. (Ezra 3:10-13) Acrostic Psalm 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai with my whole heart, in the council of the upright, and in the congregation. 2 Adonai ’s works are great, pondered by all those who delight in them. 3 His work is honor and majesty. His righteousness endures forever. 4 He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered. Adonai is gracious and merciful. 5 He has given food to those who fear him. He always remembers his covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties·. 6 He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. 7 The works of his hands are truth and mishpat ·justice·. All his precepts are sure. 8 They are established forever and ever. They are done in truth and uprightness. 9 He has sent redemption to his people. He has enjoined his covenant forever. His name is holy and awesome! 10 The fear of Adonai is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding. His tehilah ·praise song· endures forever! Chapter 112Context: Hallel 1:6. A reflection at the end of David’s life. (No reference) Acrostic Psalm 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Blessed is the man who fears Adonai , who delights greatly in his mitzvot ·instructions·. 2 His offspring will be mighty in the land. The generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house. His righteousness endures forever. 4 Light dawns in the darkness for the upright, gracious, merciful, and righteous. 5 It is well with the man who is merciful and lends. He will maintain his cause in judgment. 6 For he will never be shaken. The upright will be remembered forever. 7 He will not be afraid of evil news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in Adonai . 8 His heart is established. He will not be afraid in the end when he sees his adversaries. 9 He has dispersed, he has given to the poor. His righteousness endures forever. His horn will be exalted with kavod ·weighty glory·. 10 The wicked will see it, and be grieved. He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away. The desire of the wicked will perish. Chapter 113Context: Hallel 2:6. (No reference) 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Praise, you servants of Adonai , praise Adonai ’s name. 2 Blessed be Adonai ’s name, from this time forward and forever more. 3 From the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, Adonai ’s name is to be praised. 4 Adonai is high above all nations, his kavod ·weighty glory· above the heavens. 5 Who is like Adonai , our God, who has his seat on high, 6 Who stoops down to see in heaven and in the earth? 7 He raises up the poor out of the dust. Lifts up the needy from the ash heap; 8 that he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people. 9 He settles the barren woman in her home, as a joyful mother of children. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 114Context: Hallel 3:6. References: Sea of Suf [Reed Sea] and Jordan [Descender] River partings, also the Springs from the Rock. (Ex 14:13-22, 17:4-7; Josh 3:7-17) 1 When Israel [God prevails] went out of Egypt [Abode of slavery], the house of Jacob [Supplanter] from a people of foreign language; 2 Judah [Praised] became his sanctuary, Israel [God prevails] his dominion. 3 The sea saw it, and fled. The Jordan [Descender] was driven back. 4 The mountains skipped like rams, the little hills like lambs. 5 What was it, you sea, that you fled? You Jordan [Descender], that you turned back? 6 You mountains, that you skipped like rams; you little hills, like lambs? 7 Tremble, you earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob [Supplanter], 8 who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of waters. Chapter 115Context: Hallel 4:6. God’s action, our trust, God’s glory. The dead cannot praise and idols cannot save. (Ex 14:10-15, 14:23-31) 1 Not to us, Adonai , not to us, but to your name give kavod ·weighty glory·, for your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, and for your truth’s sake. 2 Why should the nations say, “Where is their God, now?” 3 But our God is in the heavens. He does whatever he pleases. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. 5 They have mouths, but they don’t speak. They have eyes, but they don’t see. 6 They have ears, but they don’t sh'ma ·hear obey·. They have noses, but they don’t smell. 7 They have hands, but they don’t feel. They have feet, but they don’t walk, neither do they speak through their throat. 8 Those who make them will be like them; yes, everyone who trusts in them. 9 Israel [God prevails], trust in Adonai ! He is their help and their shield. 10 House of Aaron [Light-bringer], trust in Adonai ! He is their help and their shield. 11 You who fear Adonai , trust in Adonai ! He is their help and their shield. 12 Adonai remembers us. He will bless us. He will bless the house of Israel [God prevails]. He will bless the house of Aaron [Light-bringer]. 13 He will bless those who fear Adonai , both small and great. 14 May Adonai increase you more and more, you and your children. 15 Blessed are you by Adonai , who made heaven and earth. 16 The heavens are the heavens of Adonai ; but the earth has he given to the children of men. 17 The dead don’t Halleluyah ·praise Yah·, neither any who go down into silence; 18 But we will bless Yah, from this time forward and forever more. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 116Context: Hallel 5:6. Possible alternative version of the Psalm is found in 2 Sam 22. Context: In Ps 116:13, the “cup of salvation / cup of deliverance” is reference to the third cup in the Passover seder. Seen in Exodus 6:6-7 and Luke 22:20; the third cup follows dinner and represents the blood of the passover lamb. (2 Sam 22) (Ps 116:13 with Ex 6:6-7; Luke 22:20) 1 I 'ahav ·affectionately love· Adonai , because he sh'ma ·hears obeys· my voice, and my cries for mercy. 2 Because he has turned his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live. 3 The cords of death surrounded me, the pains of Sheol ·Place of the dead· got a hold of me. I found trouble and sorrow. 4 Then I called on Adonai ’s name: “Adonai , I beg you, deliver my soul.” 5 Adonai is gracious and righteous. Yes, our God is racham ·merciful love·. 6 Adonai preserves the simple. I was brought low, and he saved me. 7 Teshuvah ·Completely return· to your rest, my soul, for Adonai has dealt bountifully with you. 8 For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. 9 I will walk before Adonai in the land of the living. 10 I believed, therefore I said, “I was greatly afflicted.” 11 I said in my haste, “All men are liars.” 12 What will I give to Adonai for all his benefits toward me? 13 I will take the cup of yishu'ah ·salvation·, and call on Adonai ’s name. 14 I will pay my vows to Adonai , yes, in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in Adonai ’s sight is the death of his saints. 16 Adonai , truly I am your servant. I am your servant, the son of your servant. You have freed me from my chains. 17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call on Adonai ’s name. 18 I will pay my vows to Adonai , yes, in the presence of all his people, 19 in the courts of Adonai ’s house, in the middle of you, Jerusalem [City of peace]. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 117Context: Hallel 6:6. (No reference) 1 Praise Adonai, all you nations! Extol him, all you peoples! 2 For his cheshed ·loving-kindness· cheshed ·loving-kindness· is great toward us. Adonai ’s faithfulness endures forever. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 118Context: Possibly after David’s mistake in taking a census. He trusts in God’s discipline. Written as David’s praise to God after the plague. (2 Sam 24:10-15) 1 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , for he is good, for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 2 Let Israel [God prevails] now say that his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 3 Let the house of Aaron [Light-bringer] now say that his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 4 Now let those who fear Adonai say that his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 5 Out of my distress, I called on Yah. Yah answered me with freedom. 6 With Adonai on my side. I will not be afraid. What can a human being do to me? 7 Adonai is on my side among those who help me. Therefore I will look in triumph at those who hate me. 8 It is better to take refuge in Adonai , than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to take refuge in Adonai , than to put confidence in princes. 10 All the nations surrounded me, but in Adonai ’s name, I cut them off. 11 They surrounded me, yes, they surrounded me. In Adonai ’s name I indeed cut them off. 12 They surrounded me like bees. They are quenched like the burning thorns. In Adonai ’s name I cut them off. 13 You pushed me back hard, to make me fall, but Adonai helped me. 14 Yah is my strength and song. He has become my yishu'ah ·salvation·. 15 The voice of rejoicing and yishu'ah ·salvation· is in the tents of the upright. “The right hand of Adonai does valiantly. 16 The right hand of Adonai is exalted! The right hand of Adonai does valiantly!” 17 I will not die, but live, and declare Yah’s works. 18 Yah has punished me severely, but he has not given me over to death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness. I will enter into them. I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Yah. 20 This is the gate of Adonai ; the upright will enter into it. 21 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, for you have answered me, and have become my yishu'ah ·salvation·. 22 The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. 23 This is Adonai ’s doing. It is marvelous in our eyes. 24 This is the day that Adonai has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it! 25 Save us now, we beg you, Adonai ! Adonai , we beg you, send prosperity now. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of Adonai ! We have blessed you out of Adonai ’s house. 27 Adonai is God, and he has given us light. Bind the sacrifice with cords, even to the horns of the altar. 28 You are my God, and I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you. You are my God, I will exalt you. 29 Oh yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , for he is good, for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. Chapter 119Context: An acrostic psalm used to teach Hebrew children the Alef-Bet by memorizing the entire Psalm. (No reference) Acrostic Psalm ALEPH 1 Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to Adonai ’s Torah ·Teaching·. 2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart. 3 Yes, they do nothing wrong. They walk in his ways. 4 You have enjoined your precepts, that we should fully obey them. 5 Oh that my ways were steadfast to obey your statutes! 6 Then I would not be disappointed, when I consider all of your mitzvot ·instructions·. 7 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you with uprightness of heart, when I learn your righteous judgments. 8 I will observe your statutes. Don’t utterly forsake me. BET and VET 9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 10 With my whole heart, I have sought you. Don’t let me wander from your mitzvot ·instructions·. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 12 Blessed are you, Adonai . Teach me your statutes. 13 With my lips, I have declared all the judgments of your mouth. 14 I have rejoiced in the way of your testimonies, as much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate on your precepts, and consider your ways. 16 I will delight myself in your regulations. I will not forget your word. GIMEL 17 Do good to your servant. I will live and I will obey your word. 18 Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things out of your Torah ·Teaching·. 19 I am a stranger on the earth. Don’t hide your mitzvot ·instructions·from me. 20 My soul is consumed with longing for your judgments at all times. 21 You have rebuked the proud who are cursed, who wander from your mitzvot ·instructions·. 22 Take reproach and contempt away from me, for I have kept your testimonies. 23 Though princes sit and slander me, your servant will meditate on your statutes. 24 Indeed your testimonies are my delight, and my counselors. DALET 25 My soul is laid low in the dust. Revive me according to your word! 26 I declared my ways, and you answered me. Teach me your statutes. 27 Let me understand the teaching of your precepts! Then I will meditate on your wondrous works. 28 My soul is weary with sorrow: strengthen me according to your word. 29 Keep me from the way of deceit. Teach me your Torah ·Teaching· in your favor! 30 I have chosen the way of truth. I have set your judgments before me. 31 I cling to your testimonies, Adonai . Don’t let me be disappointed. 32 I run in the path of your mitzvot ·instructions·, for you have set my heart free. HEY 33 Teach me, Adonai , the way of your statutes. I will keep them to the end. 34 Give me understanding, and I will keep your Torah ·Teaching·. Yes, I will obey it with my whole heart. 35 Direct me in the path of your mitzvot ·instructions·, for I delight in them. 36 Turn my heart toward your testimonies, not toward selfish gain. 37 Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in your ways. 38 Fulfill your promise to your servant, that you may be feared. 39 Take away my disgrace that I dread, for your judgments are good. 40 Behold, I long for your precepts! Revive me in your righteousness. VAV 41 Let your cheshed ·loving-kindness· also come to me, Adonai , your salvation, according to your word. 42 So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me, for I trust in your word. 43 Don’t snatch the word of truth out of my mouth, for I put my hope in your judgments. 44 So I will obey your Torah ·Teaching· continually, forever and ever. 45 I will walk in liberty, for I have sought your precepts. 46 I will also speak of your testimonies before kings, and will not be disappointed. 47 I will delight myself in your mitzvot ·instructions·, because I 'ahav ·affectionately love· them. 48 I reach out my hands for your mitzvot ·instructions·, which I 'ahav ·affectionately love·. I will meditate on your statutes. ZAYIN 49 Remember your word to your servant, because you gave me hope. 50 This is my comfort in my affliction, for your word has revived me. 51 The arrogant mock me excessively, but I don’t swerve from your Torah ·Teaching·. 52 I remember your judgments of old, Adonai , and have comforted myself. 53 Indignation has taken hold on me, because of the wicked who forsake your Torah ·Teaching·. 54 Your statutes have been my songs, in the house where I live. 55 I have remembered your name, Adonai , in the night, and I obey your Torah ·Teaching·. 56 This is my way, that I keep your precepts. HET or CHET 57 Adonai is my portion. I promised to obey your words. 58 I sought your favor with my whole heart. Be merciful to me according to your word. 59 I considered my ways, and turned my steps to your testimonies. 60 I will hurry, and not delay, to obey your mitzvot ·instructions·. 61 The ropes of the wicked bind me, but I won’t forget your Torah ·Teaching·. 62 At midnight I will rise to yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, because of your righteous judgments. 63 I am a friend of all those who fear you, of those who observe your precepts. 64 The earth is full of your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, Adonai . Teach me your statutes. TET 65 Do good to your servant, according to your word, Adonai . 66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your mitzvot ·instructions·. 67 Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now I observe your word. 68 You are good, and do good. Teach me your statutes. 69 The proud have smeared a lie upon me. With my whole heart, I will keep your precepts. 70 Their heart is as callous as the fat, but I delight in your Torah ·Teaching·. 71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn your statutes. 72 The Torah ·Teaching· of your mouth is better to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver. YOD or YUD 73 Your hands have made me and formed me. Give me understanding, that I may learn your mitzvot ·instructions·. 74 Those who fear you will see me and be glad, because I have put my hope in your word. 75 Adonai , I know that your judgments are righteous, that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. 76 Please let your cheshed ·loving-kindness· be for my comfort, according to your word to your servant. 77 Let your tender racham ·merciful love· come to me, that I may live; for your Torah ·Teaching· is my delight. 78 Let the proud be disappointed, for they have overthrown me wrongfully. I will meditate on your precepts. 79 Let those who fear you turn to me. They will know your testimonies. 80 Let my heart be blameless toward your statutes, that I may not be disappointed. KAF 81 My soul faints for your salvation. I hope in your word. 82 My eyes fail for your word. I say, “When will you comfort me?” 83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke. I don’t forget your statutes. 84 How many are the days of your servant? When will you execute judgement on those who persecute me? 85 The proud have dug pits for me, contrary to your Torah ·Teaching·. 86 All of your mitzvot ·instructions· are faithful. They persecute me wrongfully. Help me! 87 They had almost wiped me from the earth, but I didn’t forsake your precepts. 88 Preserve my life according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, so I will obey the testimonies of your mouth. LAMED 89 Adonai , your word is settled in heaven forever. 90 Your faithfulness is to all generations. You have established the earth, and it remains. 91 Your judgments remain to this day, for all things serve you. 92 Unless your Torah ·Teaching· had been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. 93 I will never forget your precepts, for with them, you have revived me. 94 I am yours. Save me, for I have sought your precepts. 95 The wicked have waited for me, to destroy me. I will consider your testimonies. 96 I have seen a limit to all perfection, but your mitzvot ·instructions· are boundless. MEM 97 How I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your Torah ·Teaching·! It is my meditation all day. 98 I am wiser than my enemies, for your mitzvot ·instructions· are always with me. 99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation. 100 I understand more than the aged, because I have kept your precepts. 101 I have kept my feet from every evil way, that I might observe your word. 102 I have not turned aside from your judgments, for you have taught me. 103 How sweet are your promises to my taste, more than honey to my mouth! 104 Through your precepts, I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way. NUN 105 Your word is a lamp candle to my feet, and a light for my path. 106 I have sworn, and have confirmed it, that I will obey your righteous judgments. 107 I am afflicted very much. Revive me, Adonai , according to your word. 108 Accept, I beg you, the willing offerings of my mouth. Adonai , teach me your judgments. 109 My soul is continually in my hand, yet I won’t forget your Torah ·Teaching·. 110 The wicked have laid a snare for me, yet I haven’t gone astray from your precepts. 111 I have taken your testimonies as a heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart. 112 I have set my heart to perform your statutes forever, even to the end. SAMECH 113 I hate double-minded men, but I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your Torah ·Teaching·. 114 You are my hiding place and my shield. I hope in your word. 115 Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the mitzvot ·instructions· of my God. 116 Uphold me according to your word, that I may live. Let me not be ashamed of my hope. 117 Hold me up, and I will be safe, and will have respect for your statutes continually. 118 You reject all those who stray from your statutes, for their deceit is in vain. 119 You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross. Therefore I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your testimonies. 120 My flesh trembles for fear of you. I am afraid of your judgments. 'AYIN 121 I have done what is mishpat ·just· and upright. Don’t leave me to my oppressors. 122 Ensure your servant’s well-being. Don’t let the proud oppress me. 123 My eyes fail looking for your yishu'ah ·salvation·, for your righteous word. 124 Deal with your servant according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. Teach me your statutes. 125 I am your servant. Give me understanding, that I may know your testimonies. 126 It is time to act, Adonai , for they break your Torah ·Teaching·. 127 Therefore I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your mitzvot ·instructions· more than gold, yes, more than pure gold. 128 Therefore I consider all of your precepts to be right. I hate every false way. PEH or FEH 129 Your testimonies are wonderful, therefore my soul keeps them. 130 The entrance of your words gives light. It gives understanding to the simple. 131 I opened my mouth wide and panted, for I longed for your mitzvot ·instructions·. 132 Turn to me, and be merciful towards me, as you always do mishpat ·justice· to those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· your name. 133 Establish my footsteps in your word. Don’t let any iniquity have dominion over me. 134 Redeem me from the oppression of man, so I will observe your precepts. 135 Make your face shine on your servant. Teach me your statutes. 136 Streams of tears run down my eyes, because they don’t observe your Torah ·Teaching·. TZADI 137 You are righteous, Adonai . Your judgments are upright. 138 Your testimonies you have enjoined are in righteousness. They are fully trustworthy. 139 My zeal wears me out, because my enemies ignore your words. 140 Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant 'ahav ·affectionately loves· them. 141 I am small and despised. I don’t forget your precepts. 142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness. Your Torah ·Teaching· is truth. 143 Trouble and anguish have taken hold of me. Your mitzvot ·instructions· are my delight. 144 Your testimonies are righteous forever. Give me understanding, that I may live. KOF or KUF 145 Wholeheartedly I am calling on you; Answer me, Adonai ! I will keep your statutes. 146 I have called to you. Save me! I will obey your testimonies. 147 I rise before dawn and cry for help. I put my hope in your words. 148 My eyes stay open through the night watches, that I might meditate on your word. 149 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my voice according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. Revive me, Adonai , according to your judgments. 150 They draw near who follow after wickedness. They are far from your Torah ·Teaching·. 151 You are near, Adonai . All your mitzvot ·instructions· are truth. 152 Of old I have known from your testimonies, that you have founded them forever. RESH 153 Consider my affliction, and deliver me, for I don’t forget your Torah ·Teaching·. 154 Plead my cause, and redeem me! Revive me according to your promise. 155 Yishu'ah ·Salvation· is far from the wicked, for they don’t seek your statutes. 156 Great is your tender racham ·merciful love· to me, Adonai . Revive me according to your judgments. 157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries. I haven’t deviated from your testimonies. 158 I look at the faithless with loathing, because they don’t observe your word. 159 Consider how I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your precepts. Revive me, Adonai , according to your cheshed ·loving-kindness·. 160 All of your words are truth. Every one of your righteous judgments endures forever. SIN and SHIN 161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of your words. 162 I rejoice at your word, as one who finds great plunder. 163 I hate and abhor falsehood. I 'ahav ·affectionately love· your Torah ·Teaching·. 164 Seven times a day, I praise you, because of your righteous judgments. 165 Those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· your Torah ·Teaching· have great peace. Nothing causes them to stumble. 166 I have hoped for your yishu'ah ·salvation·, Adonai . I obey your mitzvot ·instructions·. 167 My soul has observed your testimonies. I 'ahav ·affectionately love· them exceedingly. 168 I have obeyed your precepts and your testimonies, for all my ways are before you. TAV 169 Let my cry come before you, Adonai . Give me understanding according to your word. 170 Let my supplication come before you. Deliver me according to your word. 171 Let my lips utter tehilah ·praise song·, for you teach me your statutes. 172 Let my tongue sing of your word, for all your mitzvot ·instructions· are righteousness. 173 Let your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. 174 I have longed for your yishu'ah ·salvation·, Adonai . Your Torah ·Teaching· is my delight. 175 Let my soul live, that I may praise you. Let your judgments help me. 176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I don’t forget your mitzvot ·instructions·. Chapter 120Pilgrim Feast Songs. 1:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 1:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of (Ex 23:15-17): Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. (Location Meshech: Ez 38:3; 39:1) (Location Kedar: Jer 49:28-33) 1 In my distress, I cried to Adonai . He answered me. 2 Deliver my soul, Adonai , from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue. 3 What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue? 4 Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper. 5 Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! 6 My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace. 7 I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. Chapter 121Pilgrim Feast Songs. 2:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 2:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. Similar topic found in Isaiah 52:7-8. (Is 52:7-8) 1 I will lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from Adonai , who made heaven and earth. 3 He will not allow your foot to be moved. He who keeps you will not slumber. 4 Behold, he who keeps Israel [God prevails] will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 Adonai is your keeper. Adonai is your shade on your right hand. 6 The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 Adonai will keep you from all evil. He will keep your soul. 8 Adonai will keep your going out and your coming in, from this time forward, and forever more. Chapter 122Pilgrim Feast Songs. By David [Beloved]. 3:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 3:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. About Jerusalem [City of peace], which literally means [City of peace]. (No reference) 1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let’s go to Adonai ’s house!” 2 Our feet are standing within your gates, Jerusalem [City of peace]; 3 Jerusalem [City of peace], that is built as a city that is compact together; 4 where the tribes go up, even Yah’s tribes, according to a testimony for Israel [God prevails], yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai ’s name. 5 For there are set thrones for judgment, the thrones of David [Beloved]’s house. 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem [City of peace]. Those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· you will prosper. 7 Peace be within your walls, and prosperity within your palaces. 8 For my brothers’ and companions’ sakes, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” 9 For the sake of the house of Yahweh Eloheikhem [Yahweh our God], I will seek your good. Chapter 123Pilgrim Feast Songs. 4:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 4:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. (No reference) 1 To you I do lift up my eyes, you who sit in the heavens. 2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress; so our eyes look to Adonai , our God, until he has mercy on us. 3 Have mercy on us, Adonai , have mercy on us, for we have endured much contempt. 4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scoffing of those who are at ease, with the contempt of the proud. Chapter 124Pilgrim Feast Songs. By David [Beloved]. 5:15 Context: Possible shorter version of the Psalm in 2 Sam 22:1-21. (2 Sam 22:1-21) Context: Psalm of Ascent 5:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 If it had not been Adonai who was on our side, let Israel [God prevails] now say, 2 if it had not been Adonai who was on our side, when men rose up against us; 3 then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their wrath was kindled against us; 4 then the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul; 5 then the proud waters would have gone over our soul. 6 Blessed be Adonai , who has not given us as a prey to their teeth. 7 Our soul has escaped like a bird out of the fowler’s snare. The snare is broken, and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in Adonai ’s name, who made heaven and earth. Chapter 125Pilgrim Feast Songs. 6:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 6:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. (No reference) 1 Those who trust in Adonai are as Mount Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], which can’t be moved, but remains forever. 2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem [City of peace], so Adonai surrounds his people from this time forward and forever more. 3 For the scepter of wickedness won’t remain over the allotment of the upright; so that the upright won’t use their hands to do evil. 4 Do good, Adonai , to those who are good, to those who are upright in their hearts. 5 But as for those who turn aside to their crooked ways, Adonai will lead them away with the workers of iniquity. Peace be on Israel [God prevails]. Chapter 126Pilgrim Feast Songs. 7:15 Context: Upon the return of the exiles from Babylon [Confusion] or the reestablishment of the Temple. (Ezra 1:2-6, 3:10-13) Context: Psalm of Ascent 7:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 When Adonai brought back those who teshuvah ·completely returned· to Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “Adonai has done great things for them.” 3 Adonai has done great things for us, and we are glad. 4 Restore our fortunes again, Adonai , like the streams in the Negev. 5 Those who sow in tears will reap in joy. 6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed for sowing, will certainly come again with joy, carrying his sheaves. Chapter 127Pilgrim Feast Songs. By Solomon. 8:15 Context: Before David’s death, he charges Solomon concerning God, life, and goals. (1 Chr 22:6-19) Context: Psalm of Ascent 8:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 Unless Adonai builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. Unless Adonai watches over the city, the watchman guards it in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to stay up late, eating the bread of toil; for he gives sleep to his yadid ·beloved· ones. 3 Behold, children are a heritage of Adonai . The fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the children of youth. 5 Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. They won’t be disappointed when they speak with their enemies in the gate. Chapter 128Pilgrim Feast Songs. 9:15 Context: Possibly, meditation on: Lev 25:18-19; 26:3-13. (No reference) Context: Psalm of Ascent 9:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 Blessed is everyone who fears Adonai , who walks in his ways. 2 For you will eat the labor of your hands. You will be happy, and it will be well with you. 3 Your wife will be as a fruitful vine, in the innermost parts of your house; your children like olive plants, around your table. 4 Behold, thus is the man blessed who fears Adonai . 5 May Adonai bless you out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], and may you see the good of Jerusalem [City of peace] all the days of your life. 6 Yes, may you see your children’s children. Peace be upon Israel [God prevails]. Chapter 129Pilgrim Feast Songs. 10:15 Context: Possibly, reflection on Lev 26:13 applied in the times of the Judges. (No reference) Context: Psalm of Ascent 10:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 Many times they have afflicted me from my youth up. Let Israel [God prevails] now say, 2 many times they have afflicted me from my youth up, yet they have not prevailed against me. 3 The plowers plowed on my back. They made their furrows long. 4 Adonai is righteous. He has cut apart the cords of the wicked. 5 Let them be disappointed and turned backward, all those who hate Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. 6 Let them be as the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up; 7 with which the reaper does not fill his hand, nor he who binds sheaves, his bosom. 8 Neither do those who go by say, “The blessing of Adonai be on you. We bless you in Adonai ’s name.” Chapter 130Pilgrim Feast Songs. 11:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 11:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. (No reference) 1 Out of the depths I have cried to you, Adonai . 2 Lord, sh'ma ·hear obey· my voice. Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my petitions. 3 If you, Yah, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with you, therefore you are feared. 5 I wait for Adonai . My soul waits. I hope in his word. 6 My soul longs for the Lord more than watchmen long for the morning; more than watchmen for the morning. 7 Israel [God prevails], hope in Adonai , for with Adonai there is cheshed ·loving-kindness·. With him is abundant redemption. 8 He will redeem Israel [God prevails] from all their sins. Chapter 131Pilgrim Feast Songs. By David [Beloved]. 12:15 Context: Context: David [Beloved] is like a child to the greatness of Adonai. (1 Chr 17:16-19) Context: Psalm of Ascent 12:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 Adonai , my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty; nor do I concern myself with great matters, or things too wonderful for me. 2 Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. 3 Israel [God prevails], hope in Adonai , from this time forward and forever more. Chapter 132Pilgrim Feast Songs. 13:15 Context: David [Beloved] vows to build a temple but Solomon completes the task. God resides with the ark in the Tent and the Temple located in Jerusalem [City of peace] called Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. Reference to events: (Ps 132:3-5) David [Beloved] vows to build temple (2 Sam 7:2). Verse 6 refers to locations the ark had been. Efrat is Bethlehem [House of Bread] (Gen 48:7) and Ja'ar is short poetic for Kirjath-jearim, where the ark remained after being returned from the land of the Philistines [To roll in dust (As an insult)] (1 Chr 13:5-13). In verse 8 David [Beloved] finally transfers the ark to the Tabernacle in Jerusalem [City of peace] (1 Chr 15:1-4+). (2 Sam 7:2; 1 Chr 13:5-13, 15:1-4+, 17:10-14; Solomon: 2 Chr 2:4-6, 5:6-14, 6:6-11, 6:40-42) Context: Psalm of Ascent 13:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. 1 Adonai , remember David [Beloved] and all his affliction, 2 how he swore to Adonai , and vowed to the 'Avir Ya'akov [Mighty One of Supplanter]: 3 “Surely I will not come into the structure of my house, nor go up into my bed; 4 I will not give sleep to my eyes, or slumber to my eyelids; 5 until I find out a place for Adonai, a dwelling for the 'Avir Ya'akov [Mighty One of Supplanter].” 6 Behold, we sh'ma ·heard obeyed· of it in Ephrathah. We found it in the field of Jaar: 7 “We will go into his dwelling place. We will hawa ·bow low, prostrate· to worship at his footstool. 8 Arise, Adonai , into your resting place; you, and the ark of your strength. 9 Let your priest be clothed with righteousness. Let your saints shout for joy!” 10 For your servant David [Beloved]’s sake, don’t turn away the face of your anointed one. 11 Adonai has sworn to David [Beloved] in truth. He will not turn from it: “I will set the fruit of your body on your throne. 12 If your children will keep my covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties·, my testimony that I will teach them, their children also will sit on your throne forever more.” 13 For Adonai has chosen Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. He has desired it for his habitation. 14 “This is my resting place forever. Here I will live, for I have desired it. 15 I will abundantly bless her provision. I will satisfy her poor with bread. 16 Her priests I will also clothe with yesha' ·salvation·. Her saints will shout aloud for joy. 17 There I will make the horn of David [Beloved] to bud. I have ordained a lamp for my anointed. 18 I will clothe his enemies with shame, but on himself, his crown will be resplendent.” Chapter 133Pilgrim Feast Songs. By David [Beloved]. 14:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 14:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. References the anointing oil of Aaron [Light-bringer] in Ex 29:4-9. (No reference) 1 See how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to live together in unity! 2 It is like the precious oil on the head, that ran down on the beard, even Aaron [Light-bringer]’s beard; that came down on the edge of his robes; 3 like the dew of Hermon [Devoted to destruction], that comes down on the hills of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]: for there Adonai enjoined blessing, even life forever more. Chapter 134Pilgrim Feast Songs. 15:15 Context: Psalm of Ascent 15:15. Historically, sung by travelers ascending up to Jerusalem [City of peace] during the three pilgrim feasts of Ex 23:15-17: Passover, Shavout / Pentacost, and Tabernacles. Sung by the Levites [Descendants of United with] at the Feast of Tabernacles during the water drawing ceremony. (No reference) 1 Look! Praise Adonai , all you servants of Adonai , who stand by night in Adonai ’s house! 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary. Praise Adonai ! 3 May Adonai bless you from Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]; even he who made heaven and earth. Chapter 135Context: History accounts of Covenant relationship God to Israel [God prevails], who is mighty to save contrasted to mere idols. Context Reference Ps 135 (v3) Gen 28:10-22; (v4) Ex 19:5; (v8) Ex 11-12; (v11) Deut 2:26-3:3; all Joshua [Salvation Yah]; (v12) Gen 13:14-18; Josh 1:1-9 Historically, recited antiphonally with the Levites [Descendants of United with] and the People. This means performed by two semi-independent choirs in interaction, often by singing alternate musical phrases. 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Praise Adonai ’s name! Praise him, you servants of Adonai , 2 you who stand in Adonai ’s house, in the courts of our God’s house. 3 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·, for Adonai is good. Sing zahmar ·musical praise· to his name, for that is pleasant. 4 For Yah has chosen Jacob [Supplanter] for himself; Israel [God prevails] for his own segulah ·special treasure·. 5 For I know that Adonai is great, that our Lord is above all deities. 6 Whatever Adonai pleased, that he has done, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deeps; 7 who causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth; who makes lightnings with the rain; who brings the wind out of his treasuries; 8 Who struck the firstborn of Egypt [Abode of slavery], both of man and animal; 9 Who sent signs and wonders into the middle of you, Egypt [Abode of slavery], on Pharaoh, and on all his servants; 10 who struck many nations, and killed mighty kings, 11 Sihon king of the Amorites [Descendants of Talkers], Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan [Humbled], 12 and gave their land for a heritage, a heritage to Israel [God prevails], his people. 13 Your name, Adonai , endures forever; your renown, Adonai , throughout all generations. 14 For Adonai will judge his people, and have compassion on his servants. 15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. 16 They have mouths, but they can’t speak. They have eyes, but they can’t see. 17 They have ears, but they can’t hear; neither is there any breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them will be like them; yes, everyone who trusts in them. 19 House of Israel [God prevails], praise Adonai ! House of Aaron [Light-bringer], praise Adonai ! 20 House of Levi [United with], praise Adonai ! You who fear Adonai, praise Adonai ! 21 Blessed be Adonai from Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], Who dwells at Jerusalem [City of peace]. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 136Context: Called the “Great Hallel” meaning “Great Praise”. Historically, sung at Sabbath morning services, at festival gatherings, and the last day of Passover. This Great Hallel is partially referenced in 2 Chr 5:13, 7:3 when Solomon is dedicating the first temple. The Levites [Descendants of United with] and people are praising God, God’s manifest glory comes down and covers the temple in cloud 2 Chr 5:11-6:2. Also referenced in Ezra 3:11, when rebuilding of second temple at the laying of the foundation stone, some who recall the first dedication are crying, others are cheering Ezra 3:8-13. Summary: Praise God, Sovereign Ruler over the earth, the nations, and the heavens. Context Reference Ps 136 (v5) Gen 1:6-8; (v7) Gen 1:14-19; (v10) Ex 11; (v11) Ex 12:40-41; (v12-15) Ex 14 (v16) Num 9:15-23; (v17-18) Deut 2-3; (v19-20) Deut 2:26-3:3; (v21-22) Gen 28:10-22; (v23) Ex 3; 6:6-7 Historically, recited antiphonally with the Levites [Descendants of United with] and the People. This means performed by two semi-independent choirs in interaction, often by singing alternate musical phrases. 1 Hodu la-Yahweh ki'-tov ·Give thanks to Adonai for he is good·, and yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise·; ki' li-olam chas'do ·for his loving-kindness endures forever·. 2 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to the God of deities; for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 3 Yadah ·Extend hands in thankful praise· to the Lord of lords; for his faithful love endures forever: 4 To him who alone does great wonders; for his steadfast love endures forever: 5 To him who by understanding made the heavens; for his loving kindness is everlasting: 6 To him who spread out the earth above the waters; for his loyal love endures forever: 7 To him who made the great lights; for his mercies are to eternity: 8 The sun to rule by day; for his gracious love is everlasting; 9 The moon and stars to rule by night; for his mercy continues forever: 10 To him who struck down the Egyptian [person from Abode of slavery] firstborn; for his grace endures forever; 11 And brought out Israel [God prevails] from among them; for his loyal devotion endures forever; 12 With a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm; for his covenant ·binding contract between two or more parties· loyalty endures forever: 13 To him who divided the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea] apart; ki' li-olam chas'do ·for his loving-kindness endures forever·. 14 And made Israel [God prevails] to pass through the middle of it; for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 15 But overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea]; for his faithful love endures forever: 16 To him who led his people through the wilderness; for his steadfast love endures forever: 17 To him who struck great kings; for his loving kindness is everlasting: 18 And killed mighty kings; for his loyal love endures forever: 19 Sihon king of the Amorites [Descendants of Talkers]; for his mercies are to eternity: 20 Og king of Bashan; for his gracious love is everlasting; 21 And gave their land as an inheritance; for his mercy continues forever: 22 Even a heritage to Israel [God prevails] his servant; for his grace endures forever; 23 Who remembered us in our low estate; for his loyal devotion endures forever; 24 And has delivered us from our adversaries; for his loving kindness endures forever: 25 Who gives food to every creature; for his cheshed ·loving-kindness· endures forever. 26 Oh yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to the God of heaven; ki' li-olam chas'do ·for his loving-kindness endures forever·. Chapter 137Context: King Nebuchadnezzar carries Israel [God prevails] into exile. (2 Kings 24-25) 1 By the rivers of Babylon [Confusion], there we sat down. Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]. 2 On the willows in that land, we hung up our harps. 3 For there, those who led us captive asked us for songs. Those who tormented us demanded songs of joy: “Sing us one of the songs of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]!” 4 How can we sing Adonai ’s song in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, Jerusalem [City of peace], let my right hand forget its skill. 6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don’t remember you; if I don’t prefer Jerusalem [City of peace] above my chief joy. 7 Remember, Adonai , against the children of Edom [Red], the day of Jerusalem [City of peace]; who said, “Raze it! Raze it even to its foundation!” 8 Daughter of Babylon [Confusion], doomed to destruction, he will be happy who rewards you, as you have served us. 9 Happy shall he be, who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock. Chapter 138By David [Beloved]. 1 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to with my whole heart. Before the deities, I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you. 2 I will bow down toward your holy temple, and yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your Name for your cheshed ·loving-kindness· and for your truth; for you have exalted your Name and your Word above all. 3 In the day that I called, you answered me. You encouraged me with strength in my soul. 4 All the kings of the earth will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to Adonai , for they have sh'ma ·heard obeyed· the words of your mouth. 5 Yes, they will sing of the ways of Adonai ; for great is the kavod Yahweh ·weighty glory of He sustains breathing·. 6 For though Adonai is high, yet he looks after the lowly; but the proud, he knows from afar. 7 Though I walk in the middle of trouble, you will revive me. You will stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies. Your right hand will save me. 8 Adonai will fulfill that which concerns me; your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, Adonai , endures forever. Don’t forsake the works of your own hands. Chapter 139For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 Adonai , you have searched me, and you know me. 2 You know my sitting down and my rising up. You perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 For there is not a word on my tongue, but, behold, Adonai , you know it altogether. 5 You hem me in behind and before. You laid your hand on me. 6 This knowledge is beyond me. It’s lofty. I can’t attain it. 7 Where could I go from your Spirit? Or where could I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in Sheol ·Place of the dead·, behold, you are there! 9 If I take the wings of the dawn, and settle in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there your hand will lead me, and your right hand will hold me. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me; the light around me will be night;” 12 even the darkness does not hide from you, but the night shines as the day. The darkness is like light to you. 13 For you formed my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you, when I was made in secret, woven together in the depths of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my body. In your book they were all written, the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there were none of them. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is their sum! 18 If I would count them, they are more in number than the sand. When I wake up, I am still with you. 19 If only you, God, would kill the wicked. Get away from me, you bloodthirsty men! 20 For they speak against you wickedly. Your enemies take your name in vain. 21 Adonai , don’t I hate those who hate you? Am I not grieved with those who rise up against you? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred. They have become my enemies. 23 Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. 24 See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. Chapter 140For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David [Beloved]. 1 Deliver me, Adonai , from the evil man. Preserve me from the violent man; 2 those who devise mischief in their hearts. They continually gather themselves together for war. 3 They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent. Viper’s poison is under their lips. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 4 Adonai , keep me from the hands of the wicked. Preserve me from the violent men who have determined to trip my feet. 5 The proud have hidden a snare for me, they have spread the cords of a net by the path. They have set traps for me. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 6 I said to Adonai , “You are my God.” Listen to the cry of my petitions, Adonai . 7 Adonai , the Lord, the strength of my yishu'ah ·salvation·, you have covered my head in the day of battle. 8 Adonai , don’t grant the desires of the wicked. Don’t let their evil plans succeed, or they will become proud. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their own lips cover them. 10 Let burning coals fall on them. Let them be thrown into the fire, into miry pits, from where they never rise. 11 An evil speaker won’t be established in the earth. Evil will hunt the violent man to overthrow him. 12 I know that Adonai will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and mishpat ·justice· for the needy. 13 Surely the upright will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your name. The upright will dwell in your presence. Chapter 141A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: Plea from David [Beloved] to be kept safe when fleeing from someone. (No reference) 1 Adonai , I have called on you. Come to me quickly! Listen to my voice when I call to you. 2 Let my prayer be set before you like incense; the lifting up of my hands like the evening sacrifice. 3 Set a watch, Adonai , before my mouth. Keep the door of my lips. 4 Don’t incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice deeds of wickedness with men who work iniquity. Don’t let me eat of their delicacies. 5 Let the upright strike me, it is kindness; let him reprove me, it is like oil on the head; don’t let my head refuse it; Yet my prayer is always against evil deeds. 6 Their judges are thrown down by the sides of the rock. They will sh'ma ·hear obey· my words, for they are well spoken. 7 “As when one plows and breaks up the earth, our bones are scattered at the mouth of Sheol ·Place of the dead·.” 8 For my eyes are on you, Adonai , the Lord. In you, I take refuge. Don’t leave my soul destitute. 9 Keep me from the snare which they have laid for me, from the traps of the workers of iniquity. 10 Let the wicked fall together into their own nets, while I pass by. Chapter 142A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved], when he was in the cave. A Prayer. Context: When David [Beloved] was in the cave. Recently escaped from King Saul [Asked for], discontent men gather around David [Beloved] as leader. (1 Sam 22:1-2) 1 I cry with my voice to Adonai . With my voice, I ask Adonai for mercy. 2 I pour out my complaint before him. I tell him my troubles. 3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, you knew my route. On the path in which I walk, they have hidden a snare for me. 4 Look on my right, and see; for there is no one who is concerned for me. Refuge has fled from me. No one cares for my soul. 5 I cried to you, Adonai . I said, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” 6 Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need. Deliver me from my persecutors, For they are stronger than me. 7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to your name. The upright will surround me, for you will be good to me. Chapter 143A Psalm by David [Beloved]. Context: A prayer of David [Beloved] when distressed and displaced. (No reference) 1 Sh'ma ·Hear obey· my prayer, Adonai . Listen to my petitions. In your faithfulness and righteousness, relieve me. 2 Don’t enter into judgment with your servant, for in your sight no man living is upright. 3 For the enemy pursues my soul. He has struck my life down to the ground. He has made me live in dark places, as those who have been long dead. 4 Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me. My heart within me is desolate. 5 I remember the days of old. I meditate on all your doings. I contemplate the work of your hands. 6 I spread out my hands to you. My soul thirsts for you, like a parched land. Selah ·contemplation with musical interlude·. 7 Hurry to answer me, Adonai . My spirit fails. Don’t hide your face from me, so that I don’t become like those who go down into the pit (of Abbadon, the unrighteous side of Sheol). 8 Cause me to sh'ma ·hear obey· your cheshed ·loving-kindness· in the morning, for I trust in you. Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to you. 9 Deliver me, Adonai , from my enemies. I flee to you to hide me. 10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. 11 Revive me, Adonai , for your name’s sake. In your righteousness, bring my soul out of trouble. 12 In your cheshed ·loving-kindness·, cut off my enemies, and destroy all those who afflict my soul, For I am your servant. Chapter 144By David [Beloved]. 1 Blessed be Adonai , my rock, who teaches my hands to war, and my fingers to battle: 2 my cheshed ·loving-kindness·, my fortress, my high tower, my deliverer, my shield, and he in whom I take refuge; who subdues my people under me. 3 Adonai , what is man, that you care for him? Or the son of man, that you think of him? 4 Man is like a breath. His days are like a shadow that passes away. 5 Part your heavens, Adonai , and come down. Touch the mountains, and they will smoke. 6 Throw out lightning, and scatter them. Send out your arrows, and rout them. 7 Stretch out your hand from above, rescue me, and deliver me out of great waters, out of the hands of foreigners; 8 whose mouths speak deceit, Whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. 9 I will sing a new song to you, God. On a ten-stringed lyre, I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to you. 10 You are he who gives salvation to kings, who rescues David [Beloved], his servant, from the deadly sword. 11 Rescue me, and deliver me out of the hands of foreigners, whose mouths speak deceit, whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. 12 Then our sons will be like well-nurtured plants, our daughters like pillars carved to adorn a palace. 13 Our barns are full, filled with all kinds of provision. Our sheep produce thousands and ten thousands in our fields. 14 Our oxen will pull heavy loads. There is no breaking in, and no going away, and no outcry in our streets. 15 Happy are the people who are in such a situation. Happy are the people whose God is Adonai . Chapter 145A tehilah ·praise song· by David [Beloved]. Context: A meditation of God’s self-definition, God’s self-revelation. (Ex 34:5-9) (Repeated in places like: Ex 20:5, 22:27, 33:19; Num 14:18; Deut 4:31, 5:10, 32:2-4; Jer 32:18; Joel 2:13; Mic 7:18; Nahum 1:3; Ps 86:5, 86:15-16, 103:8, 108:4; 111:4-5, 112:4, 116:5, 145:8; Lam 3:23; Jonah 4:2; Neh 9:17; 2 Chr 30:9; Rom 2:4, 5:20-21; Eph 1:7-8) Historically, Jubilee song. Possibly incorporated during the 50th year of Jubilee, the Yovel year, mentioned in (Lev 25:8-13). Acrostic Psalm 1 I will exalt you, my God, the King. I will praise your name forever and ever. 2 Every day I will praise you. I will extol your name forever and ever. 3 Great is Adonai , and greatly to be praised! His greatness is unsearchable. 4 One generation will commend your works to another, and will declare your mighty acts. 5 Of the glorious majesty of your kavod ·weighty glory·, of your wondrous works, I will meditate. 6 Men will speak of the might of your awesome acts. I will declare your greatness. 7 They will utter the memory of your great goodness, and will sing of your righteousness. 8 Adonai is gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and of great cheshed ·loving-kindness·. 9 Adonai is good to all. His tender racham ·merciful love· is over all his works. 10 All your works will yadah ·extend hands in thankful praise· to you, Adonai . Your saints will extol you. 11 They will speak of the kavod ·weighty glory· of your kingdom, and talk about your power; 12 to make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, the kavod ·weighty glory· of the majesty of his kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. Your dominion endures throughout all generations. Adonai is faithful in all his words, and loving in all his deeds. 14 Adonai upholds all who fall, and raises up all those who are bowed down. 15 The eyes of all wait for you. You give them their food in due season. 16 You open your hand, and satisfy the desire of every living thing. 17 Adonai is righteous in all his ways, and gracious in all his works. 18 Adonai is near to all those who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear him. He also will sh'ma ·hear obey· their cry, and will save them. 20 Adonai preserves all those who 'ahav ·affectionately love· him, but all the wicked he will destroy. 21 My mouth will speak the tehilah ·praise song· of Adonai . Let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever. Chapter 146 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Praise Adonai , my soul. 2 While I live, I will praise Adonai . I will sing zahmar ·musical praise· to my God as long as I exist. 3 Don’t put your trust in princes, each a son of man in whom there is no help. 4 His spirit departs, and he teshuvah ·completely returns· to the earth. In that very day, his thoughts perish. 5 Happy is he who has the God of Jacob [Supplanter] for his help, whose hope is in Adonai , his God: 6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps truth forever; 7 who executes mishpat ·justice· for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. Adonai frees the prisoners. 8 Adonai opens the eyes of the blind. Adonai raises up those who are bowed down. Adonai 'ahav ·affectionately loves· the upright. 9 Adonai preserves the foreigners. He upholds the fatherless and widow, but the way of the wicked he turns upside down. 10 Adonai will reign forever; your God, O Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking], to all generations. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 147 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·, for it is good to sing tehilahot ·praise songs· to our God; for it is pleasant and fitting to make zahmar ·musical praise· unto him. 2 Adonai builds up Jerusalem [City of peace]. He gathers together the outcasts of Israel [God prevails]. 3 He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds. 4 He counts the number of the stars. He calls them all by their names. 5 Great is our Lord, and mighty in power. His understanding is infinite. 6 Adonai upholds the humble. He brings the wicked down to the ground. 7 Sing to Adonai with thanksgiving. Sing zahmar ·musical praise· on the harp to our God, 8 who covers the sky with clouds, who prepares rain for the earth, who makes grass grow on the mountains. 9 He provides food for the livestock, and for the young ravens when they call. 10 He does not delight in the strength of the horse. He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. 11 Adonai takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his cheshed ·loving-kindness·. 12 Praise Adonai , Jerusalem [City of peace]! Praise your God, Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]! 13 For he has strengthened the bars of your gates. He has blessed your children within you. 14 He makes peace in your borders. He fills you with the finest of the wheat. 15 He sends his word out over the earth. His word runs very swiftly. 16 He gives snow like wool, and scatters frost like ashes. 17 He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can stand before his cold? 18 He sends out his word, and melts them. He causes his wind to blow, and the waters flow. 19 He shows his word to Jacob [Supplanter]; his statutes and his judgments to Israel [God prevails]. 20 He has not done this for just any nation. They don’t know his judgments. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 148Context: All creation praises and obeys the Creator, Elohim God. (Jer 31:35-36) (Consider also Rom 8:19-22) 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Praise Adonai from the heavens! Praise him in the heights! 2 Praise him, all his angels! Praise him, all his army! 3 Praise him, sun and moon! Praise him, all you shining stars! 4 Praise him, you heavens of heavens, You waters that are above the heavens. 5 Let them praise Adonai ’s name, For he enjoined, and they were created. 6 He has also established them forever and ever. He has made a statute which will not pass away. 7 Praise Adonai from the earth, you great sea creatures, and all depths! 8 Lightning and hail, snow and clouds; stormy wind, fulfilling his word; 9 mountains and all hills; fruit trees and all cedars; 10 wild animals and all livestock; small creatures and flying birds; 11 kings of the earth and all peoples; princes and all judges of the earth; 12 both young men and maidens; old men and children: 13 let them praise Adonai ’s name, for his name alone is exalted. His glory is above the earth and the heavens. 14 He has lifted up the horn of his people, the tehilah ·praise song· of all his saints; even of the children of Israel [God prevails], a people near to him. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 149Context: Possible, reflection on God’s judgments at the Sea of Suf [Reed Sea] and after taking possession of the land of Canaan [Humbled]. (Gen 15:14-16; Ex 15:20-21; Joshua [Salvation Yah] 2:9-11; 1 Sam 15:1-3) 1 Praise Adonai ! Sing to Adonai a new song, his tehilah ·praise song· in the assembly of the saints. 2 Let Israel [God prevails] rejoice in him who made them. Let the children of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking] be joyful in their King. 3 Let them praise his name in the dance! Let them sing zahmar ·musical praise· to him with tambourine and harp! 4 For Adonai takes pleasure in his people. He crowns the humble with yishu'ah ·salvation·. 5 Let the saints rejoice in kavod ·weighty glory·. Let them sing for joy on their beds. 6 May the high praises of God be in their mouths, and a two-edged sword in their hand; 7 To execute vengeance on the nations, and punishments on the peoples; 8 To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; 9 to execute on them the written judgment. All his saints have this honor. Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Chapter 150 1 Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Praise God in his sanctuary! Praise him in his heavens for his acts of power! 2 Praise him for his mighty acts! Praise him according to his excellent greatness! 3 Praise him with the sounding of the shofar ·ram horn·! Praise him with harp and lyre! 4 Praise him with tambourine and dancing! Praise him with stringed instruments and flute! 5 Praise him with loud cymbals! Praise him with resounding cymbals! 6 Let everything that has breath Halleluyah ·praise Yah·! Halleluyah ·praise Yah·!