The Tanakh · JPS 1917 Translation

Psalms 79

Jewish Publication Society 1917 · Ketuvim — the Writings

Psalms chapter 79 — part of the Ketuvim — the Writings in the Jewish Bible. In the classic JPS 1917 translation it opens: “A Psalm of Asaph. O G-d, the heathen are come into Thine inheritance; they have defiled Thy holy temple; they have made Jerusalem into heaps.” — the complete text of all 13 verses is below, free to read online.

1A Psalm of Asaph. O G-d, the heathen are come into Thine inheritance; they have defiled Thy holy temple; they have made Jerusalem into heaps.

2They have given the dead bodies of Thy servants to be food unto the fowls of the heaven, the flesh of Thy saints unto the beasts of the earth.

3They have shed their blood like water round about Jerusalem, with none to bury them.

4We are become a taunt to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.

5How long, O HaShem, wilt Thou be angry for ever? How long will Thy jealousy burn like fire?

6Pour out Thy wrath upon the nations that know Thee not, and upon the kingdoms that call not upon Thy name.

7For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his habitation.

8Remember not against us the iniquities of our forefathers; let Thy compassions speedily come to meet us; for we are brought very low.

9Help us, O G-d of our salvation, for the sake of the glory of Thy name; and deliver us, and forgive our sins, for Thy name's sake.

10Wherefore should the nations say: 'Where is their G-d?' Let the avenging of Thy servants' blood that is shed be made known among the nations in our sight.

11Let the groaning of the prisoner come before Thee; according to the greatness of Thy power set free those that are appointed to death;

12And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached Thee, O L-rd.

13So we that are Thy people and the flock of Thy pasture will give Thee thanks for ever; we will tell of Thy praise to all generations.

13 verses · JPS 1917 (public domain)

‹ Psalms 78 Psalms 80 ›

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