1For the Conductor, a psalm by David.
2Rescue me from the evil man, protect me from the man of violence,
3who devise evil schemes in their heart; every day they gather for wars.
4They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the spider's venom is forever under their lips.
5Guard me, Lord, from the hands of the wicked, protect me from the man of violence-those who plot to cause my steps to slip.
6Arrogant ones have hidden a snare for me, and ropes; they spread a net by my path, they set traps for me continually.
7I said to the Lord, "You are my God!" Listen, O Lord, to the voice of my pleas.
8God, my Lord, the strength of my deliverance, You sheltered my head on the day of armed battle.
9Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; fulfill not his scheme, make it unattainable forever.
10As for the head of my besiegers, let the deceit of their own lips bury them.
11Let burning coals fall upon them; let it cast them down into the fire, into deep pits, never to rise again.
12Let not the slanderous man be established in the land; let the evil of the man of violence trap him until he is overthrown.
13I know that the Lord will execute judgement for the poor, justice for the needy.
14Indeed, the righteous will extol Your Name; the upright will dwell in Your presence.