The Tanakh · JPS 1917 Translation

Psalms 51

Jewish Publication Society 1917 · Ketuvim — the Writings

Psalms chapter 51 — part of the Ketuvim — the Writings in the Jewish Bible. In the classic JPS 1917 translation it opens: “For the Leader. A Psalm of David;” — the complete text of all 21 verses is below, free to read online.

1For the Leader. A Psalm of David;

2When Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba.

3Be gracious unto me, O G-d, according to Thy mercy; according to the multitude of Thy compassions blot out my transgressions.

4Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

5For I know my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me.

6Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done that which is evil in Thy sight; that Thou mayest be justified when Thou speakest, and be in the right when Thou judgest.

7Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.

8Behold, Thou desirest truth in the inward parts; make me, therefore, to know wisdom in mine inmost heart.

9Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

10Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which Thou hast crushed may rejoice.

11Hide Thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.

12Create me a clean heart, O G-d; and renew a stedfast spirit within me.

13Cast me not away from Thy presence; and take not Thy holy spirit from me.

14Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and let a willing spirit uphold me.

15Then will I teach transgressors Thy ways; and sinners shall return unto Thee.

16Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O G-d, Thou G-d of my salvation; so shall my tongue sing aloud of Thy righteousness.

17O L-rd, open Thou my lips; and my mouth shall declare Thy praise.

18For Thou delightest not in sacrifice, else would I give it; Thou hast no pleasure in burnt-offering.

19The sacrifices of G-d are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O G-d, Thou wilt not despise.

20Do good in Thy favour unto Zion; build Thou the walls of Jerusalem.

21Then wilt Thou delight in the sacrifices of righteousness, in burnt-offering and whole offering; then will they offer bullocks upon Thine altar.

21 verses · JPS 1917 (public domain)

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