1
I said, "I will watch my ways
and keep my tongue from sin;
I will put a muzzle on my mouth
while in the presence of the wicked."
2
So I remained utterly silent,
not even saying anything good.
But my anguish increased;
3
my heart grew hot within me.
While I meditated, the fire burned;
then I spoke with my tongue:
4
"Show me, Lord, my life's end
and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting my life is.
5
You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Everyone is but a breath,
even those who seem secure. 1
6
"Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom;
in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth
without knowing whose it will finally be.
7
"But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.
8
Save me from all my transgressions;
do not make me the scorn of fools.
9
I was silent; I would not open my mouth,
for you are the one who has done this.
10
Remove your scourge from me;
I am overcome by the blow of your hand.
11
When you rebuke and discipline anyone for their sin,
you consume their wealth like a moth -
surely everyone is but a breath.
12
"Hear my prayer, Lord,
listen to my cry for help;
do not be deaf to my weeping.
I dwell with you as a foreigner,
a stranger, as all my ancestors were.
13
Look away from me, that I may enjoy life again
before I depart and am no more."