1“A Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer.” (142:2) With my voice I cry unto the Lord: with my voice I make supplication unto the Lord.

2(142:3) I pour out before him my grief: my distress I recite before him.

3(142:4) When my spirit was overwhelmed within me—and thou knowest well my path—on the way whereon I desired to walk they had secretly laid a snare for me.

4(142:5) Look to the right, and behold, yea, there is no man that recognizeth me: [every] refuge is lost to me; there is no one that careth for my soul.

5(142:6) I cried unto thee, O Lord: I said, Thou art my refuge, my portion in the land of life.

6(142:7) Listen unto my entreaty; for I am very miserable: deliver me from my pursuers; for they are too mighty for me.

7(142:8) Bring forth out of prison my soul, that I may thank thy name: with me shall the righteous crown themselves, when thou wilt deal bountifully with me.