1For the leader. A psalm of David: Rescue me, ADONAI, from evil people, protect me from violent people.
2They plan evil things in their hearts they continually stir up bitter strife.
3They have made their tongues as sharp as a snake's; viper's venom is under their lips. (Selah)
4Keep me, ADONAI, from the hands of the wicked, protect me from violent people who are trying to trip me up.
5The arrogant hide snares for me; they spread nets by the side of the road, hoping to trap me there. (Selah)
6I said to ADONAI, "You are my God; listen, ADONAI, to my plea for mercy."
7ADONAI, Adonai, my saving strength, my helmet shielding my head in battle,
8ADONAI, don't grant the wicked their wishes; make their plot fail, so they won't grow proud. (Selah)
9May the heads of those who surround me be engulfed in the evil they spoke of, themselves.
10May burning coals rain down on them, may they be flung into the fire, flung into deep pits, never to rise again.
11Let slanderers find no place in the land; let the violent and evil be hunted relentlessly.
12I know that ADONAI gives justice to the poor and maintains the rights of the needy.
13The righteous will surely give thanks to your name; the upright will live in your presence.