Psalm 12

The Scourge of Sinful Speech

1 For the leader. On sh'minit [low-pitched musical instruments?]. A psalm of David: Help, ADONAI! For no one godly is left; the faithful have vanished from humankind. 

2 They all tell lies to each other, flattering with their lips, but speaking from divided hearts. 

3 May ADONAI cut off all flattering lips and the tongue that speaks so proudly, 

4 those who say, "By our tongues, we will prevail; our lips are with us. Who can master us?" 

5 "Because the poor are oppressed, because the needy are groaning, I will now rise up," says ADONAI, "and grant security to those whom they scorn." 

6 The words of ADONAI are pure words, silver in a melting-pot set in the earth, refined and purified seven times over. 

7 You, ADONAI, protect us; guard us forever from this generation 

8 the wicked strut about everywhere when vileness is held in general esteem.

Back to Psalm Index

Permission has been granted to Jewish Heritage Revival for the use of Scripture quotations in its articles, taken from the Complete Jewish Bible, copyright 1998 by  David H.  Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications,  Inc., 6120 Day Long  Lane, Clarksville, Maryland 21029.  www.messianicjewish.net/jntp