1For the leader. Set in the style of Y'dutun. A psalm of David: I said, "I will watch how I behave, so that I won't sin with my tongue; I will put a muzzle on my mouth whenever the wicked confront me."
2I was silent, said nothing, not even good; but my pain kept being stirred up.
3My heart grew hot within me; whenever I thought of it, the fire burned. Then, [at last,] I let my tongue speak:
4"Make me grasp, ADONAI, what my end must be, what it means that my days are numbered; let me know what a transient creature I am.
5You have made my days like handbreadths; for you, the length of my life is like nothing." Yes, everyone, no matter how firmly he stands, is merely a puff of wind. (Selah)
6Humans go about like shadows; their turmoil is all for nothing. They accumulate wealth, not knowing who will enjoy its benefits.
7Now, Adonai, what am I waiting for? You are my only hope.
8Rescue me from all my transgressions; don't make me the butt of fools.
9I am silent, I keep my mouth shut, because it is you who have done it.
10Stop raining blows on me; the pounding of your fist is wearing me down.
11With rebukes you discipline people for their guilt; like a moth, you destroy what makes them attractive; yes, everyone is merely a puff of wind. (Selah)
12Hear my prayer, ADONAI, listen to my cry, don't be deaf to my weeping; for with you, I am just a traveler passing through, like all my ancestors.
13Turn your gaze from me, so I can smile again before I depart and cease to exist.