1(140-1) For the Leader. A Psalm of David. (140-2) Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man; preserve me from the violent man;

2(140-3) Who devise evil things in their heart; every day do they stir up wars.

3(140-4) They have sharpened their tongue like a serpent; vipers' venom is under their lips. Selah

4(140-5) Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the violent man; who have purposed to make my steps slip.

5(140-6) The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah

6(140-7) I have said unto the LORD: 'Thou art my God'; give ear, O LORD, unto the voice of my supplications.

7(140-8) O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, who hast screened my head in the day of battle,

8(140-9) Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; further not his evil device, so that they exalt themselves. Selah

9(140-10) As for the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

10(140-11) Let burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

11(140-12) A slanderer shall not be established in the earth; the violent and evil man shall be hunted with thrust upon thrust.

12(140-13) I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the poor, and the right of the needy.

13(140-14) Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto Thy name; the upright shall dwell in Thy presence.