Psalms 142

Psalm 142#sn Psalm 142. The psalmist laments his persecuted state and asks the Lord to deliver him from his enemies.

A well-written song#tn The meaning of the Hebrew term מַשְׂכִּיל (maskil) is uncertain. The word is derived from a verb meaning “to be prudent; to be wise.” Various options are: “a contemplative song,” “a song imparting moral wisdom,” or “a skillful [i.e., well-written] song.” The term occurs in the superscriptions of Pss 32, 42, 44, 45, 52-55, 74, 78, 88, 89, and 142, as well as in Ps 47:7. by David, when he was in the cave;#sn According to the superscription, David wrote this psalm while in “the cave.” This probably refers to either the incident recorded in 1 Sam 22:1 or to the one recorded in 1 Sam 24:3. See the superscription of Ps 57. a prayer.

1To the Lord I cry out; to the Lord I plead for mercy.

2I pour out my lament before him; I tell him about my troubles.

3Even when my strength leaves me, you watch my footsteps. In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me.

4Look to the right and see! No one cares about me. I have nowhere to run; no one is concerned about my life.

5I cry out to you, O Lord; I say, “You are my shelter, my security in the land of the living.”

6Listen to my cry for help, for I am in serious trouble! Rescue me from those who chase me, for they are stronger than I am.

7Free me from prison, that I may give thanks to your name. Because of me the godly will assemble, for you will vindicate me.