Psalm 51. Miserere mei, Deus.

1. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your lovingkindness; *
   in your great compassion blot out my offenses.
2. Wash me through and through from my wickedness *
   and cleanse me from my sin.
3. For I know my transgressions, *
   and my sin is ever before me.
4. Against you only have I sinned *
   and done what is evil in your sight.
5. And so you are justified when you speak *
   and upright in your judgment.
6. Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, *
   a sinner from my mother's womb.
7. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, *
   and will make me understand wisdom secretly.
8. Purge me from my sin, and I shall be pure; *
   wash me, and I shall be clean indeed.
9. Make me hear of joy and gladness, *
   that the body you have broken may rejoice.
10. Hide your face from my sins *
    and blot out all my iniquities.
11. Create in me a clean heart, O God, *
    and renew a right spirit within me.
12. Cast me not away from your presence *
    and take not your holy Spirit from me.
13. Give me the joy of your saving help again *
    and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit.
14. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, *
    and sinners shall return to you.
15. Deliver me from death, O God, *
    and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation.
16. Open my lips, O Lord, *
    and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.
17. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, *
    but you take no delight in burnt-offerings.
18. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; *
    a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
19. Be favorable and gracious to Zion, *
    and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
20. Then you will be pleased with the appointed sacrifices, with burnt-offerings and oblations; *
    then shall they offer young bullocks upon your altar.