1 To the chief Musician. A Psalm of David. Free me, O Jehovah, from the evil man; preserve me from the violent man: 2 Who devise mischiefs in their heart; every day are they banded together for war. 3 They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison is under their lips. Selah. 4 Keep me, O Jehovah, from the hands of the wicked man, preserve me from the violent man, who devise to overthrow my steps. 5 The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the way-side; they have set traps for me. Selah. 6 I have said unto Jehovah, Thou art my *God: give ear, O Jehovah, to the voice of my supplications. 7 Jehovah, the Lord, is the strength of my salvation: thou hast covered my head in the day of battle. 8 Grant not, O Jehovah, the desire of the wicked; further not his device: they would exalt themselves. Selah. 9 As for the head of those that encompass me, let the mischief of their own lips cover them. 10 Let burning coals fall on them; let them be cast into the fire; into deep waters, that they rise not up again. 11 Let not the man of evil tongue be established in the earth: evil shall hunt the man of violence to his ruin. 12 I know that Jehovah will maintain the cause of the afflicted one, the right of the needy. 13 Yea, the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name; the upright shall dwell in thy presence.