A Psalm of Asaph.
1 Truly God (Elohim) is good to Yisrael, even to such as are of a clean heart.
2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well near slipped.
3 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4 For there are no bands in their death; but their strength is firm.
5 They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men.
6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.
7 Their eyes stand out with fatness; they have more than heart could wish.
8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression; they speak loftily.
9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them.
11 And they say, “How doth God (Elohim) know?” And is there knowledge in the Most High (Elyon)?
12 Behold, these are the wicked, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning.
15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of Your children.
16 When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God (El); then understood I their end.
18 Surely You didst set them in slippery places; You castedst them down into destruction.
19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors.
20 As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord (Adonai), when You awakest, You shalt despise their image.
21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.
22 So foolish was I, and ignorant; I was as a beast before You.
23 Nevertheless I am continually with You; You have holden me by my right hand.
24 You shalt guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You.
26 My flesh and my heart faileth; but God (Elohim) is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.
27 For, behold, those who are far from you shall perish; You have destroyed all those who go a whoring from You.
28 But it is good for me to draw near to God (Elohim); I have put my trust in Lord (Adonai) יהוה, that I may declare all Your works.