Psalm 39. Dixi, Custodiam.

1. I said," I will keep watch upon my ways, *
   so that I do not offend with my tongue.
2. I will put a muzzle on my mouth *
   while the wicked are in my presence."
3. So I held my tongue and said nothing; *
   I refrained from rash words; but my pain became unbearable.
4. My heart was hot within me; while I pondered, the fire burst into flame; *
   I spoke out with my tongue:
5. Lord, let me know my end and the number of my days, *
   so that I may know how short my life is.
6. You have given me a mere handful of days, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight; *
   truly, even those who stand erect are but a puff of wind.
7. We walk about like a shadow, and in vain we are in turmoil; *
   we heap up riches and cannot tell who will gather them.
8. And now, what is my hope? *
   O Lord, my hope is in you.
9. Deliver me from all my transgressions *
   and do not make me the taunt of the fool.
10. I fell silent and did not open my mouth, *
    for surely it was you that did it.
11. Take your affliction from me; *
    I am worn down by the blows of your hand.
12. With rebukes for sin you punish us; like a moth you eat away all that is dear to us; *
    truly, everyone is but a puff of wind.
13. Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear to my cry; *
    hold not your peace at my tears.
14. For I am but a sojourner with you, *
    a wayfarer, as all my forebears were.
15. Turn your gaze from me, that I may be glad again, *
    before I go my way and am no more.