The Tanakh · JPS 1917 Translation

Psalms 17

Jewish Publication Society 1917 · Ketuvim — the Writings

Psalms chapter 17 — part of the Ketuvim — the Writings in the Jewish Bible. In the classic JPS 1917 translation it opens: “A Prayer of David. Hear the right, O HaShem, attend unto my cry; give ear unto my prayer from lips without deceit.” — the complete text of all 15 verses is below, free to read online.

1A Prayer of David. Hear the right, O HaShem, attend unto my cry; give ear unto my prayer from lips without deceit.

2Let my judgment come forth from Thy presence; let Thine eyes behold equity.

3Thou hast tried my heart, Thou hast visited it in the night; Thou hast tested me, and Thou findest not that I had a thought which should not pass my mouth.

4As for the doings of men, by the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the ways of the violent.

5My steps have held fast to Thy paths, my feet have not slipped.

6As for me, I call upon Thee, for Thou wilt answer me, O G-d; incline Thine ear unto me, hear my speech.

7Make passing great Thy mercies, O Thou that savest by Thy right hand from assailants them that take refuge in Thee.

8Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me in the shadow of Thy wings,

9From the wicked that oppress, my deadly enemies, that compass me about.

10Their gross heart they have shut tight, with their mouth they speak proudly.

11At our every step they have now encompassed us; they set their eyes to cast us down to the earth.

12He is like a lion that is eager to tear in pieces, and like a young lion lurking in secret places.

13Arise, O HaShem, confront him, cast him down; deliver my soul from the wicked, by Thy sword;

14From men, by Thy hand, O HaShem, from men of the world, whose portion is in this life, and whose belly Thou fillest with Thy treasure; who have children in plenty, and leave their abundance to their babes.

15As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with Thy likeness.

15 verses · JPS 1917 (public domain)

‹ Psalms 16 Psalms 18 ›

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