otcanon
Psalms 6
The sixth psalm is a plea of physical and spiritual exhaustion addressed directly to Jehovah, anchored on the covenant name throughout. The psalmist does not argue innocence but appeals solely to Jehovah's mercies — the hesed, the covenant-loyal lovingkindness — as the ground for deliverance. The argument of verse five is pointed: the dead cannot praise Jehovah, so there is a covenant interest in keeping the suppliant alive. The psalm closes not in continued petition but in settled confidence: Jehovah has heard, Jehovah will receive — and the enemies who pressed the psalmist are left to their own shame.
1
O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.
2
Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.
3
My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?
4
Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake.
5
For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?
6
I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.
7
Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
8
Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.
9
The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.
10
Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.
