The Sacred Bible:  The Book of Psalms

1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10  11  12  13  14  15  16  17  18  19  20  21  22  23  24  25  26 27  28  29  30  31  32  33  34  35  36  37  38

[Psalmus 1]
[Psalm 1]

~ Note about the numbering of the Psalms: The numbering of the Psalms used in the CPDV is the same as the numbering in the Sixtus V and Clement VIII Latin Vulgate, with a few minor changes. The more typical numbering seen in many other versions of the Bible in English is according to the Hebrew text.

{1:1} Beatus vir, qui non abiit in consilio impiorum, et in via peccatorum non stetit, et in cathedra pestilentiæ non sedit:
{1:1} Blessed is the man who has not followed the counsel of the impious, and has not remained in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the chair of pestilence.

~ Or, more loosely translated: “Blessed is the man who has not followed the advice of the impious, and has not stood in the street among sinners, and has not sat in the company of complainers.”

~ The Douay-Rheims notes are particularly insightful on this verse: “Blessed [Note: [a] He is in the right way to eternal happiness. ] is the man, that hath [Note: [b] not consented to evil suggestions. ] not gone in the counsel of the impious, & hath [Note: [c] not continued in sin. ] not stood in the way of sinners, and hath [Note: [d] not finally persisted in wicked life. ] not sit in the chair of pestilence:”

~ Note that, in translating the Psalms, I have decided to choose accuracy and a more literal rendering, over a looser and more poetic phrasing of the text. The reason is that a looser translation, obscures some of the meaning.

{1:2} Sed in lege Domini voluntas eius, et in lege eius meditabitur die ac nocte.
{1:2} But his will is with the law of the Lord, and he will meditate on his law, day and night.

{1:3} Et erit tamquam lignum, quod plantatum est secus decursus aquarum, quod fructum suum dabit in tempore suo: Et folium eius non defluet: et omnia quæcumque faciet, prosperabuntur.
{1:3} And he will be like a tree that has been planted beside running waters, which will provide its fruit in its time, and its leaf will not fall away, and all things whatsoever that he does will prosper.

{1:4} Non sic impii, non sic: sed tamquam pulvis, quem proiicit ventus a facie terræ.
{1:4} Not so the impious, not so. For they are like the dust that the wind casts along the face of the earth.

{1:5} Ideo non resurgent impii in iudicio: neque peccatores in concilio iustorum.
{1:5} Therefore, the impious will not prevail again in judgment, nor sinners in the council of the just.

~ The verb ‘resurgent’ could be translated as ‘prevail again’ or as ‘rise up again.’ The translation ‘the impious will not rise up again in the judgment’ is avoided because both the just and the unjust will rise again at the general resurrection on the day of judgment.

{1:6} Quoniam novit Dominus viam iustorum: et iter impiorum peribit.
{1:6} For the Lord knows the way of the just. And the path of the impious will pass away.

[Psalmus 2]
[Psalm 2]

{2:1} Quare fremuerunt Gentes, et populi meditati sunt inania?
{2:1} Why have the Gentiles been seething, and why have the people been pondering nonsense?

~ The word ‘gentes’ can be translated as ‘Gentiles,’ or as ‘nations,’ or as ‘peoples.’ When translated as ‘Gentiles,’ and when viewed from a present-day Catholic perspective, it refers not to non-Jews, but to non-believers.

{2:2} Astiterunt reges terræ, et principes convenerunt in unum adversus Dominum, et adversus Christum eius.
{2:2} The kings of the earth have stood up, and the leaders have joined together as one, against the Lord and against his Christ:

{2:3} Dirumpamus vincula eorum: et proiiciamus a nobis iugum ipsorum.
{2:3} “Let us shatter their chains and cast their yoke away from us.”

{2:4} Qui habitat in cælis irridebit eos: et Dominus subsannabit eos.
{2:4} He who dwells in heaven will ridicule them, and the Lord will mock them.

{2:5} Tunc loquetur ad eos in ira sua, et in furore suo conturbabit eos.
{2:5} Then will he speak to them in his anger and trouble them with his fury.

{2:6} Ego autem constitutus sum rex ab eo super Sion montem sanctum eius, prædicans præceptum eius.
{2:6} Yet I have been appointed king by him over Zion, his holy mountain, preaching his precepts.

{2:7} Dominus dixit ad me: Filius meus es tu, ego hodie genui te.
{2:7} The Lord has said to me: You are my son, this day have I begotten you.

~ The phrase ‘Filius meus es tu’ is a good example of how word order in Latin differs from word order in English. The word order in English is exactly the reverse of the word order in Latin. To translate, one must read the entire phrase before giving the first word of the translation.

{2:8} Postula a me, et dabo tibi Gentes hereditatem tuam, et possessionem tuam terminos terræ.
{2:8} Ask of me and I will give to you: the Gentiles for your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for your possession.

{2:9} Reges eos in virga ferrea, et tamquam vas figuli confringes eos.
{2:9} You will rule them with an iron rod, and you will shatter them like a potter’s vessel.

{2:10} Et nunc reges intelligite: erudimini qui iudicatis terram.
{2:10} And now, O kings, understand. Receive instruction, you who judge the earth.

~ More literally: ‘Be taught, you who judge the land.’

{2:11} Servite Domino in timore: et exultate ei cum tremore.
{2:11} Serve the Lord in fear, and exult in him with trembling.

{2:12} Apprehendite disciplinam nequando irascatur Dominus, et pereatis de via iusta.
{2:12} Embrace discipline, lest at any time the Lord might become angry, and you would perish from the way of the just.

~ Notice the use of the subjunctive tense here, and its translation. God may become angry, and then you would perish from the just way.

{2:13} Cum exarserit in brevi ira eius, beati omnes, qui confidunt in eo.
{2:13} Though his wrath can flare up in a short time, blessed are all those who trust in him.

[Psalmus 3]
[Psalm 3]

{3:1} Psalmus David, Cum fugeret a facie Absalom filii sui.
{3:1} A Psalm of David. When he fled from the face of his son, Absalom.

{3:2} Domine quid multiplicati sunt qui tribulant me? multi insurgunt adversum me.
{3:2} Lord, why have those who trouble me been multiplied? Many rise up against me.

{3:3} Multi dicunt animæ meæ: Non est salus ipsi in Deo eius.
{3:3} Many say to my soul, “There is no salvation for him in his God.”

~ The word ‘salus’ can mean ‘salvation,’ or ‘safety,’ or ‘health.’

{3:4} Tu autem Domine susceptor meus es, gloria mea, et exaltans caput meum.
{3:4} But you, Lord, are my supporter, my glory, and the one who raises up my head.

{3:5} Voce mea ad Dominum clamavi: et exaudivit me de monte sancto suo.
{3:5} I have cried out to the Lord with my voice, and he has heard me from his holy mountain.

{3:6} Ego dormivi, et soporatus sum: et exurrexi, quia Dominus suscepit me.
{3:6} I have slept, and I have been stupefied. But I awakened because the Lord has taken me up.

~ The verb ‘soporatus sum’ does not refer to normal sleep. It refers to being knocked unconscious or being put to sleep by something (extreme weariness, medication, etc.). It can also mean, more loosely, to be stupefied or dumbstruck. The reference to sleep in this verse is metaphorical, so ‘stupefied’ works better than ‘unconscious.’

{3:7} Non timebo millia populi circumdantis me: exurge Domine: salvum me fac Deus meus.
{3:7} I will not fear the thousands of people surrounding me. Rise up, Lord. Save me, my God.

~ Or, ‘Accomplish my salvation, my God.’

{3:8} Quoniam tu percussisti omnes adversantes mihi sine causa: dentes peccatorum contrivisti.
{3:8} For you have struck all those who oppose me without cause. You have broken the teeth of sinners.

{3:9} Domini est salus: et super populum tuum benedictio tua.
{3:9} Salvation is of the Lord, and your blessing is upon your people.

[Psalmus 4]
[Psalm 4]

{4:1} In finem in carminibus, Psalmus David.
{4:1} In parts according to verses. A Psalm of David.

~ Usually, ‘finem’ refers to the end or limit of something, but the root of the word is related to ‘findo,’ which means to divide into parts. Thus the word ‘finem’ typically means ‘the last part.’ But, in the context of the Psalms, which were in ancient times, as they are still today, sung or chanted, the phrase ‘in finem’ can mean ‘in parts.’ This expression refers to a song that is divided into different singing parts (e.g. a duet, or a song with parts for a chorus and parts for individuals), or to a poem that is divided into different speaking parts.

~ However, there is a more meaningful translation of ‘in finem.’ The notes of the Douay-Rheims version interpret ‘in finem’ (‘unto the end’) to refer to the New Testament: ‘pertaining unto the new Testament.’ And the Wycliffe version translates ‘in finem’ as ‘for victories,’ i.e. pertaining to a successful end. Thus, ‘in finem’ in this translation is usually rendered as ‘unto the end,’ since this translation makes the most fulfilling meanings most accessible.

~ The word ‘carminibus’ refers to a card for working with wool or flax. It is a card with many divisions or parts. In this context, ‘carminibus’ refers to the division of the psalm into verses. In ancient times, the Bible was not divided into verses. Perhaps the first application of this concept to the Bible was in the psalms, which had to be divided into verses, because it is poetry and because it is sung.

{4:2} Cum invocarem exaudivit me Deus iustitiæ meæ: in tribulatione dilatasti mihi. Miserere mei, et exaudi orationem meam.
{4:2} When I called upon him, the God of my justice heeded me. In tribulation, you have enlarged me. Have mercy on me, and heed my prayer.

{4:3} Filii hominum usquequo gravi corde? ut quid diligitis vanitatem, et quæritis mendacium?
{4:3} Sons of men, how long will you be dull in heart, so that whatever you love is in vain, and whatever you seek is false?

{4:4} Et scitote quoniam mirificavit Dominus sanctum suum: Dominus exaudiet me cum clamavero ad eum.
{4:4} And know this: the Lord has made wondrous his holy one. The Lord will heed me when I cry out to him.

{4:5} Irascimini, et nolite peccare: quæ dicitis in cordibus vestris, in cubilibus vestris compungimini.
{4:5} Be angry, and do not be willing to sin. The things that you say in your hearts: be sorry for them on your beds.

{4:6} Sacrificate sacrificium iustitiæ, et sperate in Domino. Multi dicunt: Quis ostendit nobis bona?
{4:6} Offer the sacrifice of justice, and hope in the Lord. Many say, “Who reveals to us what is good?”

{4:7} Signatum est super nos lumen vultus tui Domine: dedisti lætitiam in corde meo.
{4:7} The light of your countenance, Lord, has been sealed upon us. You have given joy to my heart.

{4:8} A fructu frumenti, vini, et olei sui multiplicati sunt.
{4:8} By the fruit of their grain, wine, and oil, they have been multiplied.

{4:9} In pace in idipsum dormiam, et requiescam;
{4:9} In peace itself, I will sleep and I will rest.

~ Or, ‘In peace, in the very same, I will sleep and I will rest.’

{4:10} Quoniam tu Domine singulariter in spe constituisti me.
{4:10} For you, O Lord, have established me singularly in hope.

~ The term ‘singulariter’ could refer to God who alone establishes me in hope, or it could refer to being established in hope alone or in hope in a singular manner.

[Psalmus 5]
[Psalm 5]

{5:1} In finem pro ea, quæ hereditatem consequitur, Psalmus David.
{5:1} Unto the end. For her who pursues the inheritance. A Psalm of David.

{5:2} Verba mea auribus percipe Domine, intellige clamorem meum.
{5:2} O Lord, listen closely to my words. Understand my outcry.

{5:3} Intende voci orationis meæ, Rex meus et Deus meus.
{5:3} Attend to the voice of my prayer, my King and my God.

{5:4} Quoniam ad te orabo: Domine mane exaudies vocem meam.
{5:4} For to you, I will pray. In the morning, Lord, you will hear my voice.

{5:5} Mane astabo tibi et videbo: quoniam non Deus volens iniquitatem tu es.
{5:5} In the morning, I will stand before you, and I will see. For you are not a God who wills iniquity.

{5:6} Neque habitabit iuxta te malignus: neque permanebunt iniusti ante oculos tuos.
{5:6} And the malicious will not dwell close to you, nor will the unjust endure before your eyes.

{5:7} Odisti omnes, qui operantur iniquitatem: perdes omnes, qui loquuntur mendacium. Virum sanguinum et dolosum abominabitur Dominus:
{5:7} You hate all who work iniquity. You will destroy all who speak a lie. The bloody and deceitful man, the Lord will abominate.

{5:8} ego autem in multitudine misericordiæ tuæ. Introibo in domum tuam: adorabo ad templum sanctum tuum in timore tuo.
{5:8} But I am in the multitude of your mercy. I will enter your house. I will show adoration toward your holy temple, in your fear.

~ The humanity of Christ is a Temple united to His Divinity.

{5:9} Domine deduc me in iustitia tua: propter inimicos meos dirige in conspectu tuo viam meam.
{5:9} Lord, lead me in your justice. Because of my enemies, direct my way in your sight.

{5:10} Quoniam non est in ore eorum veritas: cor eorum vanum est.
{5:10} For there is no truth in their mouth: their heart is vain.

{5:11} Sepulchrum patens est guttur eorum, linguis suis dolose agebant, iudica illos Deus. Decidant a cogitationibus suis, secundum multitudinem impietatum eorum expelle eos, quoniam irritaverunt te Domine.
{5:11} Their throat is an open sepulcher. They have acted deceitfully with their tongues. Judge them, O God. Let them fall by their own intentions: according to the multitude of their impiety, expel them. For they have provoked you, O Lord.

{5:12} Et lætentur omnes, qui sperant in te, in æternum exultabunt: et habitabis in eis. Et gloriabuntur in te omnes, qui diligunt nomen tuum,
{5:12} But let all those who hope in you rejoice. They will exult in eternity, and you will dwell in them. And all those who love your name will glory in you.

{5:13} quoniam tu benedices iusto. Domine, ut scuto bonæ voluntatis tuæ coronasti nos.
{5:13} For you will bless the just. You have crowned us, O Lord, as if with a shield of your good will.

[Psalmus 6]
[Psalm 6]

{6:1} In finem in carminibus, Psalmus David, pro octava.
{6:1} In parts according to verses. A Psalm of David. For the octave.

{6:2} Domine, ne in furore tuo arguas me, neque in ira tua corripias me.
{6:2} O Lord, do not rebuke me in your fury, nor chastise me in your anger.

{6:3} Miserere mei Domine quoniam infirmus sum: sana me Domine quoniam conturbata sunt ossa mea,
{6:3} Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my bones have become disturbed,

{6:4} et anima mea turbata est valde: sed tu Domine usquequo?
{6:4} and my soul has been very troubled. But as for you, Lord, when?

{6:5} Convertere Domine, et eripe animam meam: salvum me fac propter misericordiam tuam.
{6:5} Turn to me, Lord, and rescue my soul. Save me because of your mercy.

{6:6} Quoniam non est in morte qui memor sit tui: in inferno autem quis confitebitur tibi?
{6:6} For there is no one in death who would be mindful of you. And who will confess to you in Hell?

{6:7} Laboravi in gemitu meo, lavabo per singulas noctes lectum meum: lacrymis meis stratum meum rigabo.
{6:7} I have labored in my groaning. Every night, with my tears, I will wash my bed and drench my blanket.

{6:8} Turbatus est a furore oculus meus: inveteravi inter omnes inimicos meos.
{6:8} My eye has been troubled by rage. I have grown old among all my enemies.

{6:9} Discedite a me omnes qui operamini iniquitatem: quoniam exaudivit Dominus vocem fletus mei.
{6:9} Scatter before me, all you who work iniquity, for the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping.

{6:10} Exaudivit Dominus deprecationem meam, Dominus orationem meam suscepit.
{6:10} The Lord has heard my supplication. The Lord has accepted my prayer.

{6:11} Erubescant, et conturbentur vehementer omnes inimici mei: convertantur et erubescant valde velociter.
{6:11} Let all my enemies be ashamed and together be greatly troubled. May they be converted and become ashamed very quickly.

[Psalmus 7]
[Psalm 7]

{7:1} Psalmus David, quem cantavit Domino pro verbis Chusi filii Iemini.
{7:1} A Psalm of David, which he sang to the Lord because of the words of Cush, the son of Jemini.

{7:2} Domine Deus meus in te speravi: salvum me fac ex omnibus persequentibus me, et libera me.
{7:2} O Lord, my God, in you I have hoped. Save me from all those who persecute me, and free me:

{7:3} Nequando rapiat ut leo animam meam, dum non est qui redimat, neque qui salvum faciat.
{7:3} lest at any time, like a lion, he might seize my soul, while there is no one to redeem me, nor any who can save.

{7:4} Domine Deus meus si feci istud, si est iniquitas in manibus meis:
{7:4} O Lord, my God, if there is iniquity in my hands, if I have done this:

{7:5} Si reddidi retribuentibus mihi mala, decidam merito ab inimicis meis inanis.
{7:5} if I have repaid those who rendered evils to me, may I deservedly fall away empty before my enemies:

{7:6} Persequatur inimicus animam meam, et comprehendat, et conculcet in terra vitam meam, et gloriam meam in pulverem deducat.
{7:6} let the enemy pursue my soul, and take hold of it, and trample my life into the earth, and drag down my glory into the dust.

{7:7} Exurge Domine in ira tua: et exaltare in finibus inimicorum meorum. Et exurge Domine Deus meus in præcepto quod mandasti:
{7:7} Rise up, Lord, in your anger. And be exalted to the borders of my enemies. And rise up, O Lord my God, according to the precept that you commanded,

{7:8} et synagoga populorum circumdabit te. Et propter hanc in altum regredere:
{7:8} and a congregation of people will surround you. And, because of this, return on high.

{7:9} Dominus iudicat populos. Iudica me Domine secundum iustitiam meam, et secundum innocentiam meam super me.
{7:9} The Lord judges the people. Judge me, O Lord, according to my justice and according to my innocence within me.

{7:10} Consumetur nequitia peccatorum, et diriges iustum, scrutans corda et renes Deus.
{7:10} The wickedness of sinners will be consumed, and you will direct the just: the examiner of hearts and temperaments is God.

~ The word ‘renes’ literally means ‘kidneys,’ but it is used metaphorically to refer to one’s temperament.

{7:11} Iustum adiutorium meum a Domino, qui salvos facit rectos corde.
{7:11} Just is my help from the Lord, who saves the upright of heart.

{7:12} Deus iudex iustus, fortis, et patiens: numquid irascitur per singulos dies?
{7:12} God is a just judge, strong and patient. How could he be angry throughout every day?

{7:13} Nisi conversi fueritis, gladium suum vibrabit: arcum suum tetendit, et paravit illum.
{7:13} Unless you will be converted, he will brandish his sword. He has extended his bow and made it ready.

{7:14} Et in eo paravit vasa mortis, sagittas suas ardentibus effecit.
{7:14} And with it, he has prepared instruments of death. He has produced his arrows for those on fire.

{7:15} Ecce parturiit iniustitiam: concepit dolorem, et peperit iniquitatem.
{7:15} Behold him who has given birth to injustice: he has conceived sorrow and has begotten iniquity.

{7:16} Lacum aperuit, et effodit eum: et incidit in foveam, quam fecit.
{7:16} He has opened a pit and enlarged it. And he has fallen into the hole that he made.

{7:17} Convertetur dolor eius in caput eius: et in verticem ipsius iniquitas eius descendet.
{7:17} His sorrow will be turned upon his own head, and his iniquity will descend upon his highest point.

{7:18} Confitebor Domino secundum iustitiam eius: et psallam nomini Domini altissimi.
{7:18} I will confess to the Lord according to his justice, and I will sing a psalm to the name of the Lord Most High.

[Psalmus 8]
[Psalm 8]

{8:1} In finem pro torcularibus, Psalmus David.
{8:1} Unto the end. For the oil and wine presses. A Psalm of David.

~ The word ‘torcularibus’ refers to oil and wine presses. This psalm is a prayer praising God’s magnificence as displayed in the abundance that comes to us from nature.

{8:2} Domine Dominus noster, quam admirabile est nomen tuum in universa terra! Quoniam elevata est magnificentia tua, super cælos.
{8:2} O Lord, our Lord, how admirable is your name throughout all the earth! For your magnificence is elevated above the heavens.

{8:3} Ex ore infantium et lactentium perfecisti laudem propter inimicos tuos, ut destruas inimicum et ultorem.
{8:3} Out of the mouths of babes and infants, you have perfected praise, because of your enemies, so that you may destroy the enemy and the revenger.

~ The word ‘lactentium’ literally refers to infants who are still nursing; and the word ‘infantium’ more generally refers to young children. Despite the similarity to the English word ‘infant,’ the word ‘infantium’ is better rendered as babes or toddlers, and ‘lactentium’ is a better fit for ‘infants.’

{8:4} Quoniam videbo cælos tuos, opera digitorum tuorum: lunam et stellas, quæ tu fundasti.
{8:4} For I will behold your heavens, the works of your fingers: the moon and the stars, which you have founded.

{8:5} Quid est homo, quod memor es eius? aut filius hominis, quoniam visitas eum?
{8:5} What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you visit him?

{8:6} Minuisti eum paulominus ab angelis, gloria et honore coronasti eum:
{8:6} You reduced him to a little less than the Angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor,

{8:7} et constituisti eum super opera manuum tuarum.
{8:7} and you have set him over the works of your hands.

{8:8} Omnia subiecisti sub pedibus eius, oves et boves universas: insuper et pecora campi.
{8:8} You have subjected all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and in addition: the beasts of the field,

{8:9} Volucres cæli, et pisces maris, qui perambulant semitas maris.
{8:9} the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, which pass through the paths of the sea.

{8:10} Domine Dominus noster, quam admirabile est nomen tuum in universa terra!
{8:10} O Lord, our Lord, how admirable is your name throughout all the earth!

[Psalmus 9]
[Psalm 9] (9 - 10)

{9:1} In finem, pro occultis filii, Psalmus David.
{9:1} Unto the end. For the secrets of the Son. A Psalm of David.

~ Or, ‘for the hidden things of the Son.’ Some psalms have an introductory verse that often contains an instruction concerning the reciting or singing of the psalm, or a statement about its topic, or dedication, or purpose. Even the most devout and knowledgeable Christian does not know everything, or even most things that could be known about the Son. He is ever partially hidden from our view.

{9:2} Confitebor tibi Domine in toto corde meo: narrabo omnia mirabilia tua.
{9:2} I will confess to you, Lord, with my whole heart. I will recount all your wonders.

{9:3} Lætabor et exultabo in te: psallam nomini tuo Altissime,
{9:3} I will rejoice and exult in you. I will sing a psalm to your name, O Most High.

{9:4} In convertendo inimicum meum retrorsum: infirmabuntur, et peribunt a facie tua.
{9:4} For my enemy will be turned back. They will be weakened and perish before your face.

{9:5} Quoniam fecisti iudicium meum et causam meam: sedisti super thronum qui iudicas iustitiam.
{9:5} For you have accomplished my judgment and my cause. You have sat upon the throne that judges justice.

{9:6} Increpasti Gentes, et periit impius: nomen eorum delesti in æternum et in sæculum sæculi.
{9:6} You have rebuked the Gentiles, and the impious one has perished. You have deleted their name in eternity and for all generations.

~ Their name has been deleted in eternity (Heaven) and for all future generations on earth. For at the general Resurrection God takes away Heaven and earth, and He makes a new Heaven and a new earth.

{9:7} Inimici defecerunt frameæ in finem: et civitates eorum destruxisti. Periit memoria eorum cum sonitu:
{9:7} The spears of the enemy have failed in the end, and their cities, you have destroyed. Their memory has perished with a loud noise.

{9:8} et Dominus in æternum permanet. Paravit in iudicio thronum suum:
{9:8} But the Lord remains in eternity. He has prepared his throne in judgment.

{9:9} et ipse iudicabit orbem terræ in æquitate, iudicabit populos in iustitia.
{9:9} And he will judge the whole world in equity. He will judge the people in justice.

{9:10} Et factus est Dominus refugium pauperi: adiutor in opportunitatibus, in tribulatione.
{9:10} And the Lord has become a refuge for the poor, a helper in opportunity, in tribulation.

{9:11} Et sperent in te qui noverunt nomen tuum: quoniam non dereliquisti quærentes te Domine.
{9:11} And may they hope in you, who know your name. For you have not abandoned those seeking you, Lord.

{9:12} Psallite Domino, qui habitat in Sion: annunciate inter Gentes studia eius:
{9:12} Sing a psalm to the Lord, who dwells in Zion. Announce his study among the Gentiles.

~ The word ‘studia’ refers to a topic of study, devotion, or interest. The topic is the teaching of the Church.

{9:13} Quoniam requirens sanguinem eorum recordatus est: non est oblitus clamorem pauperum.
{9:13} Because of those who yearned for their blood, he has remembered them. He has not forgotten the cry of the poor.

{9:14} Miserere mei Domine: vide humilitatem meam de inimicis meis.
{9:14} Have mercy on me, Lord. See my humiliation from my enemies.

{9:15} Qui exaltas me de portis mortis, ut annunciem omnes laudationes tuas in portis filiæ Sion.
{9:15} You lift me up from the gates of death, so that I may announce all your praises at the gates of the daughter of Zion.

~ Or, ‘at the gates of daughter Zion.’

{9:16} Exultabo in salutari tuo: infixæ sunt Gentes in interitu, quem fecerunt. In laqueo isto, quem absconderunt, comprehensus est pes eorum.
{9:16} I will exult in your salvation. The Gentiles have become trapped in the ruin that they made. Their foot has been caught in the same snare that they themselves had hidden.

{9:17} Cognoscetur Dominus iudicia faciens: in operibus manuum suarum comprehensus est peccator.
{9:17} The Lord will be recognized when making judgments. The sinner has been caught in the works of his own hands.

{9:18} Convertantur peccatores in infernum, omnes Gentes quæ obliviscuntur Deum.
{9:18} The sinners will be turned into Hell: all the Gentiles who have forgotten God.

~ Gentiles, in this context, refers to any and all who ignore or reject God, to non-believers rather merely to non-Jews.

{9:19} Quoniam non in finem oblivio erit pauperis: patientia pauperum non peribit in finem.
{9:19} For the poor will not be forgotten in the end. The patience of the poor will not perish in the end.

{9:20} Exurge Domine, non confortetur homo: iudicentur Gentes in conspectu tuo:
{9:20} Rise up, Lord: do not let man be strengthened. Let the Gentiles be judged in your sight.

{9:21} Constitue Domine legislatorem super eos: ut sciant Gentes quoniam homines sunt.
{9:21} O Lord, establish a lawgiver over them, so that the Gentiles may know that they are only men.


{9:22} Ut quid Domine recessisti longe, despicis in opportunitatibus, in tribulatione?
{9:22} So then, why, O Lord, have you withdrawn far away? Why have you overlooked us in opportunity, in tribulation?

{9:23} Dum superbit impius, incenditur pauper: comprehenduntur in consiliis quibus cogitant.
{9:23} While the impious is arrogant, the poor is enflamed. They are held by the counsels that they devise.

{9:24} Quoniam laudatur peccator in desideriis animæ suæ: et iniquus benedicitur.
{9:24} For the sinner is praised by the desires of his soul, and the iniquitous is blessed.

~ The meaning is that the sinner is given praise for his sins by the sinful desires in his soul, and likewise, the iniquitous person is given blessings by the iniquity in his soul. In this context, the word ‘benedicitur’ is not a euphemism for cursing. One finds this euphemism in Job 2:9, where the wife of Job is speaking about God. She says ‘Bless God,’ because she dare not say the words ‘Curse God.’ However, Scripture itself, when explaining the truth to us, does not refrain from using the word ‘curse.’

{9:25} Exacerbavit Dominum peccator, secundum multitudinem iræ suæ non quæret.
{9:25} The sinner has provoked the Lord; according to the multitude of his wrath, he will not seek him.

{9:26} Non est Deus in conspectu eius: inquinatæ sunt viæ illius in omni tempore. Auferuntur iudicia tua a facie eius: omnium inimicorum suorum dominabitur.
{9:26} God is not before his sight. His ways are stained at all times. Your judgments are removed from his face. He will be master of all his enemies.

{9:27} Dixit enim in corde suo: Non movebor a generatione in generationem, sine malo.
{9:27} For he has said in his heart, “I will not be disturbed: from generation to generation without evil.”

~ The word ‘movebor’ can be translated as ‘moved’ or as ‘disturbed.’ The word ‘malo’ can be translated as ‘evil’ or as ‘misfortune’ or ‘disaster.’

{9:28} Cuius maledictione os plenum est, et amaritudine, et dolo: sub lingua eius labor et dolor.
{9:28} His mouth is full of curses, and bitterness, and deceit. Under his tongue are hardship and sorrow.

{9:29} Sedet in insidiis cum divitibus in occultis, ut interficiat innocentem.
{9:29} He sits in ambush, with resources in hidden places, so that he may execute the innocent.

{9:30} Oculi eius in pauperem respiciunt: insidiatur in abscondito, quasi leo in spelunca sua. Insidiatur ut rapiat pauperem: rapere pauperem dum attrahit eum.
{9:30} His eyes catch sight of the poor. He lies in ambush, in hiding like a lion in his den. He lies in ambush, so that he may seize the poor, to seize the poor as he draws him in.

{9:31} In laqueo suo humiliabit eum, inclinabit se, et cadet cum dominatus fuerit pauperum.
{9:31} With his snare, he will bring him down. He will crouch down and pounce, when he has power over the poor.

{9:32} Dixit enim in corde suo: Oblitus est Deus, avertit faciem suam ne videat in finem.
{9:32} For he has said in his heart, “God has forgotten, he has turned away his face, lest he see to the end.”

{9:33} Exurge Domine Deus, exaltetur manus tua: ne obliviscaris pauperum.
{9:33} O Lord God, rise up. Let your hand be exalted. Do not forget the poor.

{9:34} Propter quid irritavit impius Deum? dixit enim in corde suo: Non requiret.
{9:34} How has the impious one provoked God? For he has said in his heart, “He will not inquire.”

{9:35} Vides, quoniam tu laborem et dolorem consideras: ut tradas eos in manus tuas. Tibi derelictus est pauper: orphano tu eris adiutor.
{9:35} You do see, for you examine hardship and sorrow, so that you may deliver them into your hands. The poor one has been abandoned to you. You will be a helper to the orphan.

{9:36} Contere brachium peccatoris et maligni: quæretur peccatum illius, et non invenietur.
{9:36} Break the arm of the sinner and the malicious. His sin will be sought, and it will not be found.

~ His sin will not be found because he has been defeated by God and his sinful deeds are no more.

{9:37} Dominus regnabit in æternum, et in sæculum sæculi: peribitis Gentes de terra illius.
{9:37} The Lord shall reign in eternity, even forever and ever. You will perish the Gentiles from his land.

{9:38} Desiderium pauperum exaudivit Dominus: præparationem cordis eorum audivit auris tua.
{9:38} The Lord has heeded the desire of the poor. Your ear has listened to the preparation of their heart,

{9:39} Iudicare pupillo et humili, ut non apponat ultra magnificare se homo super terram.
{9:39} so as to judge for the orphan and the humble, so that man may no longer presume to magnify himself upon the earth.

[Psalmus 10]
[Psalm 10] (11)

{10:1} In finem, Psalmus David.
{10:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David.

~ The expression, ‘in finem’ can be interpreted to refer to a psalm that is sung or recited ‘in parts.’ It can also be interpreted to mean ‘unto the end.’

{10:2} In Domino confido: quomodo dicitis animæ meæ: Transmigra in montem sicut passer?
{10:2} I trust in the Lord. How can you say to my soul, “Sojourn to the mountain, like a sparrow.”

{10:3} Quoniam ecce peccatores intenderunt arcum, paraverunt sagittas suas in pharetra, ut sagittent in obscuro rectos corde.
{10:3} For behold, the sinners have bent their bow. They have prepared their arrows in the quiver, so as to shoot arrows in the dark at the upright of heart.

{10:4} Quoniam quæ perfecisti, destruxerunt: iustus autem quid fecit?
{10:4} For they have destroyed the things that you have completed. But what has the just one done?

{10:5} Dominus in templo sancto suo, Dominus in cælo sedes eius: Oculi eius in pauperem respiciunt: palpebræ eius interrogant filios hominum.
{10:5} The Lord is in his holy temple. The Lord’s throne is in heaven. His eyes look upon the poor. His eyelids question the sons of men.

{10:6} Dominus interrogat iustum et impium: qui autem diligit iniquitatem, odit animam suam.
{10:6} The Lord questions the just and the impious. Yet he who loves iniquity, hates his own soul.

{10:7} Pluet super peccatores laqueos: ignis, et sulphur, et spiritus procellarum pars calicis eorum.
{10:7} He will rain down snares upon sinners. Fire and brimstone and windstorms will be the portion of their cup.

~ Or, ‘spiritual storms.’

{10:8} Quoniam iustus Dominus et iustitias dilexit: æquitatem vidit vultus eius.
{10:8} For the Lord is just, and he has chosen justice. His countenance has beheld equity.

[Psalmus 11]
[Psalm 11] (12)

{11:1} In finem pro octava, Psalmus David.
{11:1} Unto the end. For the octave. A Psalm of David.

{11:2} Salvum me fac Domine, quoniam defecit sanctus: quoniam diminutæ sunt veritates a filiis hominum.
{11:2} Save me, O Lord, because holiness has passed away, because truths have been diminished, before the sons of men.

{11:3} Vana locuti sunt unusquisque ad proximum suum: labia dolosa, in corde et corde locuti sunt.
{11:3} They have been speaking emptiness, each one to his neighbor; they have been speaking with deceitful lips and a duplicitous heart.

~ The phrase ‘in corde et corde’ is idiomatic, meaning with a duplicitous or double heart.

{11:4} Disperdat Dominus universa labia dolosa, et linguam magniloquam.
{11:4} May the Lord scatter all deceitful lips, along with the tongue that speaks malice.

{11:5} Qui dixerunt: Linguam nostram magnificabimus, labia nostra a nobis sunt, quis noster Dominus est?
{11:5} They have said: “We will magnify our tongue; our lips belong to us. Who is our Lord?”

{11:6} Propter miseriam inopum, et gemitum pauperum nunc exurgam, dicit Dominus. Ponam in salutari: fiducialiter agam in eo.
{11:6} Because of the misery of the destitute and the groaning of the poor, now I will arise, says the Lord. I will place him in safety. I will act faithfully toward him.

{11:7} Eloquia Domini, eloquia casta: argentum igne examinatum, probatum terræ purgatum septuplum.
{11:7} The eloquence of the Lord is pure eloquence, silver tested by fire, purged from the earth, refined seven times.

{11:8} Tu Domine servabis nos: et custodies nos a generatione hac in æternum.
{11:8} You, O Lord, will preserve us, and you will guard us from this generation into eternity.

{11:9} In circuitu impii ambulant: secundum altitudinem tuam multiplicasti filios hominum.
{11:9} The impious wander aimlessly. According to your loftiness, you have multiplied the sons of men.

[Psalmus 12]
[Psalm 12] (13)

{12:1} In finem, Psalmus David. Usquequo Domine oblivisceris me in finem? Usquequo avertis faciem tuam a me?
{12:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David. How long, O Lord? Will you forget me until the end? How long will you turn your face away from me?

{12:2} Quamdiu ponam consilia in anima mea, dolorem in corde meo per diem?
{12:2} How long can I take counsel in my soul, sorrowing in my heart throughout the day?

{12:3} Usquequo exaltabitur inimicus meus super me?
{12:3} How long will my enemy be exalted over me?

{12:4} Respice, et exaudi me Domine Deus meus. Illumina oculos meos ne umquam obdormiam in morte:
{12:4} Look upon me and listen to me, O Lord my God. Enlighten my eyes, lest I fall asleep forever in death,

{12:5} ne quando dicat inimicus meus: Prævalui adversus eum. Qui tribulant me, exultabunt si motus fuero:
{12:5} lest at any time my enemy may say, “I have prevailed against him.” Those who trouble me will exult, if I have been disturbed.

{12:6} ego autem in misericordia tua speravi. Exultabit cor meum in salutari tuo: cantabo Domino qui bona tribuit mihi: et psallam nomini Domini altissimi.
{12:6} But I have hoped in your mercy. My heart will exult in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, who assigns good things to me. And I will sing psalms to the name of the Lord Most High.

[Psalmus 13]
[Psalm 13] (14)

{13:1} In finem, Psalmus David. Dixit insipiens in corde suo: Non est Deus. Corrupti sunt, et abominabiles facti sunt in studiis suis: non est qui faciat bonum, non est usque ad unum.
{13:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David. The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They were corrupted, and they have become abominable in their studies. There is no one who does good; there is not even one.

{13:2} Dominus de cælo prospexit super filios hominum, ut videat si est intelligens, aut requirens Deum.
{13:2} The Lord has looked down from heaven upon the sons of men, to see if there were any who were considering or seeking God.

{13:3} Omnes declinaverunt, simul inutiles facti sunt: non est qui faciat bonum, non est usque ad unum.
{13:3} They have all gone astray; together they have become useless. There is no one who does good; there is not even one.

~ This verse in the Vulgate is very long, encompassing 13:3 through 13:6 in this renumbered version of Psalm 13. The Vulgate probably kept verse 13:3 long in order to align with the same Psalm in the Hebrew version, which has a much shorter verse 13:3. I have renumbered this Psalm for the CPDV and for my edit of the Vulgate.

{13:4} Sepulchrum patens est guttur eorum: linguis suis dolose agebant, venenum aspidum sub labiis eorum. Quorum os maledictione et amaritudine plenum est:
{13:4} Their throat is an open sepulcher. With their tongues, they have been acting deceitfully; the venom of asps is under their lips. Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness.

{13:5} veloces pedes eorum ad effundendum sanguinem. Contritio et infelicitas in viis eorum, et viam pacis non cognoverunt:
{13:5} Their feet are swift to shed blood. Grief and unhappiness are in their ways; and the way of peace, they have not known.

{13:6} non est timor Dei ante oculos eorum.
{13:6} There is no fear of God before their eyes.

{13:7} Nonne cognoscent omnes qui operantur iniquitatem, qui devorant plebem meam sicut escam panis?
{13:7} Will they never learn: all those who work iniquity, who devour my people like a meal of bread?

~ The verb ‘cognoscent’ can refer to knowing or having knowledge; it can also refer to becoming aware of something, or to learning about something.

{13:8} Dominum non invocaverunt, illic trepidaverunt timore, ubi non erat timor.
{13:8} They have not called upon the Lord. There, they have trembled in fear, where there was no fear.

{13:9} Quoniam Dominus in generatione iusta est, consilium inopis confudistis, quoniam Dominus spes eius est.
{13:9} For the Lord is with the just generation. You have confounded the counsel of the needy because the Lord is his hope.

{13:10} Quis dabit ex Sion salutare Israel? cum averterit Dominus captivitatem plebis suæ, exultabit Iacob, et lætabitur Israel.
{13:10} Who will grant the salvation of Israel from Zion? When the Lord turns away the captivity of his people, Jacob will exult, and Israel will rejoice.

~ Literally, the verb ‘averterit’ is translated ‘will have turned away.’ But English tends to use the present tense in a clause such as this one. When translating, tenses do not always remain the same.

[Psalmus 14]
[Psalm 14] (15)

{14:1} Psalmus David. Domine quis habitabit in tabernaculo tuo? aut quis requiescet in monte sancto tuo?
{14:1} A Psalm of David. O Lord, who will dwell in your tabernacle? Or who will rest on your holy mountain?

{14:2} Qui ingreditur sine macula, et operatur iustitiam:
{14:2} He who walks without blemish and who works justice.

{14:3} Qui loquitur veritatem in corde suo, qui non egit dolum in lingua sua: Nec fecit proximo suo malum, et opprobrium non accepit adversus proximos suos.
{14:3} He who speaks the truth in his heart, who has not acted deceitfully with his tongue, and has not done evil to his neighbor, and has not taken up a reproach against his neighbors.

{14:4} Ad nihilum deductus est in conspectu eius malignus: timentes autem Dominum glorificat: Qui iurat proximo suo, et non decipit,
{14:4} In his sight, the malicious one has been reduced to nothing, but he glorifies those who fear the Lord. He who swears to his neighbor and does not deceive.

{14:5} qui pecuniam suam non dedit ad usuram, et munera super innocentem non accepit: Qui facit hæc, non movebitur in æternum.
{14:5} He who has not given his money in usury, nor accepted bribes against the innocent. He who does these things will be undisturbed for eternity.

[Psalmus 15]
[Psalm 15] (16)

{15:1} Tituli inscriptio ipsi David. Conserva me Domine, quoniam speravi in te.
{15:1} The inscription of a title: of David himself. Preserve me, O Lord, because I have hoped in you.

{15:2} Dixi Domino: Deus meus es tu, quoniam bonorum meorum non eges.
{15:2} I have said to the Lord: “You are my God, so you have no need of my goodness.”

{15:3} Sanctis, qui sunt in terra eius, mirificavit omnes voluntates meas in eis.
{15:3} As for the saints, who are in his land: he has made all my desires wonderful in them.

{15:4} Multiplicatæ sunt infirmitates eorum: postea acceleraverunt. Non congregabo conventicula eorum de sanguinibus: nec memor ero nominum eorum per labia mea.
{15:4} Their infirmities have been multiplied; after this, they acted more quickly. I will not gather for their convocations of blood, nor will I remember their names with my lips.

{15:5} Dominus pars hereditatis meæ, et calicis mei: tu es, qui restitues hereditatem meam mihi.
{15:5} The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup. It is you who will restore my inheritance to me.

{15:6} Funes ceciderunt mihi in præclaris: etenim hereditas mea præclara est mihi.
{15:6} The lots have fallen upon me with clarity. And, indeed, my inheritance has been very clear to me.

~ The word ‘funes’ refers to a string or line or cord that is used in a manner similar to casting lots, to decide upon someone’s place or to decide upon future events.

{15:7} Benedicam Dominum, qui tribuit mihi intellectum: insuper et usque ad noctem increpuerunt me renes mei.
{15:7} I will bless the Lord, who has bestowed understanding upon me. Moreover, my temperament has also corrected me, even through the night.

{15:8} Providebam Dominum in conspectu meo semper: quoniam a dextris est mihi, ne commovear.
{15:8} I have made provision for the Lord always in my sight. For he is at my right hand, so that I may not be disturbed.

{15:9} Propter hoc lætatum est cor meum, et exultavit lingua mea: insuper et caro mea requiescet in spe.
{15:9} Because of this, my heart has been joyful, and my tongue has exulted. Moreover, even my body will rest in hope.

{15:10} Quoniam non derelinques animam meam in inferno: nec dabis sanctum tuum videre corruptionem.
{15:10} For you will not abandon my soul to Hell, nor will you allow your holy one to see corruption.

{15:11} Notas mihi fecisti vias vitæ, adimplebis me lætitia cum vultu tuo: delectationes in dextera tua usque in finem.
{15:11} You have made known to me the ways of life; you will fill me with joy by your countenance. At your right hand are delights, even to the end.

[Psalmus 16]
[Psalm 16] (17)

{16:1} Oratio David. Exaudi Domine iustitiam meam: intende deprecationem meam. Auribus percipe orationem meam, non in labiis dolosis.
{16:1} A Prayer of David. Lord, listen to my justice, attend to my supplication. Pay attention to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips.

{16:2} De vultu tuo iudicium meum prodeat: oculi tui videant æquitates.
{16:2} Let my judgment proceed from your presence. Let your eyes behold fairness.

{16:3} Probasti cor meum, et visitasti nocte: igne me examinasti, et non est inventa in me iniquitas.
{16:3} You have tested my heart and visited it by night. You have examined me by fire, and iniquity has not been found in me.

{16:4} Ut non loquatur os meum opera hominum: propter verba labiorum tuorum ego custodivi vias duras.
{16:4} Therefore, may my mouth not speak the works of men. I have kept to difficult ways because of the words of your lips.

{16:5} Perfice gressus meos in semitis tuis: ut non moveantur vestigia mea.
{16:5} Perfect my steps in your paths, so that my footsteps may not be disturbed.

{16:6} Ego clamavi, quoniam exaudisti me Deus: inclina aurem tuam mihi, et exaudi verba mea.
{16:6} I have cried out because you, O God, have listened to me. Incline your ear to me and heed my words.

{16:7} Mirifica misericordias tuas, qui salvos facis sperantes in te.
{16:7} Make your mercies wonderful, for you save those who hope in you.

{16:8} A resistentibus dexteræ tuæ custodi me, ut pupillam oculi. Sub umbra alarum tuarum protege me:
{16:8} From those who resist your right hand, preserve me like the pupil of your eye. Protect me under the shadow of your wings,

{16:9} a facie impiorum qui me afflixerunt. Inimici mei animam meam circumdederunt,
{16:9} from the face of the impious who have afflicted me. My enemies have surrounded my soul.

{16:10} adipem suum concluserunt: os eorum locutum est superbiam.
{16:10} They have concealed their fatness; their mouth has been speaking arrogantly.

{16:11} Proiicientes me nunc circumdederunt me: oculos suos statuerunt declinare in terram.
{16:11} They have cast me out, and now they have surrounded me. They have cast their eyes down to the earth.

~ They look down on other people, even the whole world. They put on the mask of false humility, casting their eyes downward, as if humble, while they act with self-exaltation and condescension.

{16:12} Susceperunt me sicut leo paratus ad prædam: et sicut catulus leonis habitans in abditis.
{16:12} They have taken me, like a lion ready for the prey, and like a young lion dwelling in hiding.

{16:13} Exurge Domine, præveni eum, et supplanta eum: eripe animam meam ab impio, frameam tuam ab inimicis manus tuæ.
{16:13} Rise up, O Lord, arrive before him and displace him. Deliver my soul from the impious one: your spear from the enemies of your hand.

{16:14} Domine a paucis de terra divide eos in vita eorum: de absconditis tuis adimpletus est venter eorum. Saturati sunt filiis: et dimiserunt reliquias suas parvulis suis.
{16:14} Lord, divide them from the few of the earth in their life. Their gut has been filled from your hidden stores. They have been filled with sons, and they have bequeathed to their little ones the remainder.

{16:15} Ego autem in iustitia apparebo conspectui tuo: satiabor cum apparuerit gloria tua.
{16:15} But as for me, I will appear before your sight in justice. I will be satisfied when your glory appears.

[Psalmus 17]
[Psalm 17] (18)

{17:1} In finem, puero Domini David, qui locutus est Domino verba cantici huius, in die, qua eripuit eum Dominus de manu omnium inimicorum eius, et de manu Saul, et dixit:
{17:1} Unto the end. For David, the servant of the Lord, who spoke the words of this canticle to the Lord, in the day that the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. And he said:

{17:2} Diligam te Domine fortitudo mea:
{17:2} I will love you, O Lord my strength.

{17:3} Dominus firmamentum meum, et refugium meum, et liberator meus. Deus meus adiutor meus, et sperabo in eum. Protector meus, et cornu salutis meæ, et susceptor meus.
{17:3} The Lord is my firmament, my refuge, and my liberator. My God is my helper, and I hope in him: my protector, and the horn of my salvation, and my support.

{17:4} Laudans invocabo Dominum: et ab inimicis meis salvus ero.
{17:4} Praising, I will call upon the Lord. And I will be saved from my enemies.

{17:5} Circumdederunt me dolores mortis: et torrentes iniquitatis conturbaverunt me.
{17:5} The sorrows of death surrounded me, and the torrents of iniquity dismayed me.

{17:6} Dolores inferni circumdederunt me: præoccupaverunt me laquei mortis.
{17:6} The sorrows of Hell encompassed me, and the snares of death intercepted me.

{17:7} In tribulatione mea invocavi Dominum, et ad Deum meum clamavi: et exaudivit de templo sancto suo vocem meam: et clamor meus in conspectu eius, introivit in aures eius.
{17:7} In my tribulation, I called upon the Lord, and I cried out to my God. And he listened to my voice from his holy temple. And my cry in his presence entered into his ears.

{17:8} Commota est, et contremuit terra: fundamenta montium conturbata sunt, et commota sunt, quoniam iratus est eis.
{17:8} The earth was shaken, and it trembled. The foundations of the mountains were disturbed, and they were shaken, because he was angry with them.

{17:9} Ascendit fumus in ira eius: et ignis a facie eius exarsit: carbones succensi sunt ab eo.
{17:9} A smoke ascended by his wrath, and a fire flared up from his face: coals were kindled by it.

{17:10} Inclinavit cælos, et descendit: et caligo sub pedibus eius.
{17:10} He bent the heavens, and they descended. And darkness was under his feet.

{17:11} Et ascendit super cherubim, et volavit: volavit super pennas ventorum.
{17:11} And he ascended upon the cherubim, and he flew: he flew upon the feathers of the winds.

{17:12} Et posuit tenebras latibulum suum, in circuitu eius tabernaculum eius: tenebrosa aqua in nubibus aeris.
{17:12} And he set darkness as his hiding place, with his tabernacle all around him: dark waters in the clouds of the air.

{17:13} Præ fulgore in conspectu eius nubes transierunt, grando et carbones ignis.
{17:13} At the brightness that was before his sight, the clouds crossed by, with hail and coals of fire.

{17:14} Et intonuit de cælo Dominus, et Altissimus dedit vocem suam: grando et carbones ignis.
{17:14} And the Lord thundered from heaven, and the Most High uttered his voice: hail and coals of fire.

{17:15} Et misit sagittas suas, et dissipavit eos: fulgura multiplicavit, et conturbavit eos.
{17:15} And he sent forth his arrows and scattered them. He multiplied lightnings, and he set them in disarray.

{17:16} Et apparuerunt fontes aquarum, et revelata sunt fundamenta orbis terrarum: Ab increpatione tua Domine, ab inspiratione Spiritus iræ tuæ.
{17:16} Then the fountains of waters appeared, and the foundations of the world were revealed, by your rebuke, O Lord, by the inspiration of the Spirit of your wrath.

{17:17} Misit de summo, et accepit me: et assumpsit me de aquis multis.
{17:17} He sent from on high, and he accepted me. And he took me up, out of many waters.

{17:18} Eripuit me de inimicis meis fortissimis, et ab his qui oderunt me: quoniam confortati sunt super me.
{17:18} He rescued me from my strongest enemies, and from those who hated me. For they had been too strong for me.

{17:19} Prævenerunt me in die afflictionis meæ: et factus est Dominus protector meus.
{17:19} They intercepted me in the day of my affliction, and the Lord became my protector.

{17:20} Et eduxit me in latitudinem: salvum me fecit, quoniam voluit me.
{17:20} And he led me out, into a wide place. He accomplished my salvation, because he willed me.

~ The phrase ‘quoniam voluit me’ could be translated as ‘because he was pleased with me,’ or ‘because he wanted me,’ or ‘because he willed me.’ In terms of salvation theology, God does not save us because of us but because of Himself. Therefore, ‘because he willed me,’ is the better fit.

{17:21} Et retribuet mihi Dominus secundum iustitiam meam, et secundum puritatem manuum mearum retribuet mihi:
{17:21} And the Lord will reward me according to my justice, and he will repay me according to the purity of my hands.

{17:22} Quia custodivi vias Domini, nec impie gessi a Deo meo.
{17:22} For I have preserved the ways of the Lord, and I have not behaved impiously before my God.

{17:23} Quoniam omnia iudicia eius in conspectu meo: et iustitias eius non repuli a me.
{17:23} For all his judgments are in my sight, and his justice, I have not pushed away from me.

{17:24} Et ero immaculatus cum eo: et observabo me ab iniquitate mea.
{17:24} And I will be immaculate together with him, and I will keep myself from my iniquity.

{17:25} Et retribuet mihi Dominus secundum iustitiam meam: et secundum puritatem manuum mearum in conspectu oculorum eius.
{17:25} And the Lord will reward me according to my justice and according to the purity of my hands before his eyes.

{17:26} Cum sancto sanctus eris, et cum viro innocente innocens eris:
{17:26} With the holy, you will be holy, and with the innocent, you will be innocent,

{17:27} et cum electo electus eris: et cum perverso perverteris.
{17:27} and with the elect, you will be elect, and with the perverse, you will be perverse.

{17:28} Quoniam tu populum humilem salvum facies: et oculos superborum humiliabis.
{17:28} For you will save the humble people, but you will bring down the eyes of the arrogant.

{17:29} Quoniam tu illuminas lucernam meam Domine: Deus meus illumina tenebras meas.
{17:29} For you illuminate my lamp, O Lord. My God, enlighten my darkness.

{17:30} Quoniam in te eripiar a tentatione, et in Deo meo transgrediar murum.
{17:30} For in you, I will be delivered from temptation; and with my God, I will climb over a wall.

{17:31} Deus meus impolluta via eius: eloquia Domini igne examinata: protector est omnium sperantium in se.
{17:31} As for my God, his way is undefiled. The eloquence of the Lord has been examined by fire. He is the protector of all who hope in him.

{17:32} Quoniam quis Deus præter Dominum? aut quis Deus præter Deum nostrum?
{17:32} For who is God, except the Lord? And who is God, except our God?

{17:33} Deus qui præcinxit me virtute: et posuit immaculatam viam meam.
{17:33} It is God who has wrapped me with virtue and made my way immaculate.

{17:34} Qui perfecit pedes meos tamquam cervorum, et super excelsa statuens me.
{17:34} It is he who has perfected my feet, like the feet of deer, and who stations me upon the heights.

{17:35} Qui docet manus meas ad prælium: et posuisti, ut arcum æreum, brachia mea.
{17:35} It is he who trains my hands for battle. And you have set my arms like a bow of brass.

{17:36} Et dedisti mihi protectionem salutis tuæ: et dextera tua suscepit me: Et disciplina tua correxit me in finem: et disciplina tua ipsa me docebit.
{17:36} And you have given me the protection of your salvation. And your right hand sustains me. And your discipline has corrected me unto the end. And your discipline itself will teach me.

~ In most cases, ‘in finem’ means ‘in the end.’ In this context, perhaps the alternate translation of ‘in parts,’ also works. God does not wait until the end to correct, but He corrects in parts or in steps.

{17:37} Dilatasti gressus meos subtus me: et non sunt infirmata vestigia mea:
{17:37} You have expanded my footsteps under me, and my tracks have not been weakened.

{17:38} Persequar inimicos meos, et comprehendam illos: et non convertar donec deficiant.
{17:38} I will pursue my enemies and apprehend them. And I will not turn back until they have failed.

{17:39} Confringam illos, nec poterunt stare: cadent subtus pedes meos.
{17:39} I will break them, and they will not be able to stand. They will fall under my feet.

{17:40} Et præcinxisti me virtute ad bellum: et supplantasti insurgentes in me subtus me.
{17:40} And you have wrapped me with virtue for the battle. And those rising up against me, you have subdued under me.

{17:41} Et inimicos meos dedisti mihi dorsum, et odientes me disperdidisti.
{17:41} And you have given the back of my enemies to me, and you have destroyed those who hated me.

~ The word ‘dorsum’ can also refer to a downhill position (i.e. the less favorable position during a battle).

{17:42} Clamaverunt, nec erat qui salvos faceret, ad Dominum: nec exaudivit eos.
{17:42} They cried out, but there was none to save them, to the Lord, but he did not heed them.

{17:43} Et comminuam eos, ut pulverem ante faciem venti: ut lutum platearum delebo eos.
{17:43} And I will crush them into dust before the face of the wind, so that I will obliterate them like the mud in the streets.

{17:44} Eripies me de contradictionibus populi: constitues me in caput Gentium.
{17:44} You will rescue me from the contradictions of the people. You will set me at the head of the Gentiles.

{17:45} Populus, quem non cognovi, servivit mihi: in auditu auris obedivit mihi.
{17:45} A people I did not know has served me. As soon as their ears heard, they were obedient to me.

{17:46} Filii alieni mentiti sunt mihi, filii alieni inveterati sunt, et claudicaverunt a semitis suis.
{17:46} The sons of foreigners have been deceitful to me, the sons of foreigners have grown weak with time, and they have wavered from their paths.

{17:47} Vivit Dominus, et benedictus Deus meus, et exaltetur Deus salutis meæ.
{17:47} The Lord lives, and blessed is my God, and may the God of my salvation be exalted:

{17:48} Deus qui das vindictas mihi, et subdis populos sub me, liberator meus de inimicis meis iracundis.
{17:48} O God, who vindicates me and who subdues the people under me, my liberator from my enraged enemies.

{17:49} Et ab insurgentibus in me exaltabis me: a viro iniquo eripies me.
{17:49} And you will exalt me above those who rise up against me. From the iniquitous man, you will rescue me.

~ Notice that the phrase ‘viro iniquo’ is translated using the word ‘man,’ but the word ‘iniquo’ by itself would be translated without the word ‘man.’

{17:50} Propterea confitebor tibi in nationibus Domine: et nomini tuo psalmum dicam,
{17:50} Because of this, O Lord, I will confess to you among the nations, and I will compose a psalm to your name:

~ The phrase ‘dicam psalmum’ can be translated as ‘I will recite a psalm,’ but such a translation would too weak for this context. The context is that of being vindicated and liberated from great harm, and of confessing to God among the nations of the world. Therefore, the phrase does not mean to merely recite a psalm, but to compose a psalm. (Composition in ancient times was probably most often done in spoken words, since most persons were illiterate and those who were literate did much less reading and writing than the average person today.)

{17:51} magnificans salutes regis eius, et faciens misericordiam christo suo David, et semini eius usque in sæculum.
{17:51} magnifying the salvation of his king, and showing mercy to David, his Christ, and to his offspring, even for all time.

~ The term ‘christo suo David’ refers to David, and the term ‘semini eius’ refers to Jesus Christ. However, references to David can often be taken as figurative references to Christ, because David was a foreshadowing of Christ, the son of David.

[Psalmus 18]
[Psalm 18] (19)

{18:1} In finem, Psalmus David.
{18:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David.

{18:2} Cæli enarrant gloriam Dei, et opera manuum eius annunciat firmamentum.
{18:2} The heavens describe the glory of God, and the firmament announces the work of his hands.

{18:3} Dies diei eructat verbum, et nox nocti indicat scientiam.
{18:3} Day proclaims the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge.

{18:4} Non sunt loquelæ, neque sermones, quorum non audiantur voces eorum.
{18:4} There are no speeches or conversations, where their voices are not being heard.

~ These ‘loquelæ’ and ‘sermones’ are between the various parts of Creation, such as the days, the nights, the heavens, etc. It is not referring to literal conversations between people.

{18:5} In omnem terram exivit sonus eorum: et in fines orbis terræ verba eorum.
{18:5} Their sound has gone forth through all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.

{18:6} In sole posuit tabernaculum suum: et ipse tamquam sponsus procedens de thalamo suo: Exultavit ut gigas ad currendam viam,
{18:6} He has placed his tabernacle in the sun, and he is like a bridegroom coming out of his bedroom. He has exulted like a giant running along the way;

{18:7} a summo cælo egressio eius: Et occursus eius usque ad summum eius: nec est qui se abscondat a calore eius.
{18:7} his departure is from the summit of heaven. And his course reaches all the way to its summit. Neither is there anyone who can hide himself from his heat.

{18:8} Lex Domini immaculata convertens animas: testimonium Domini fidele, sapientiam præstans parvulis.
{18:8} The law of the Lord is immaculate, converting souls. The testimony of the Lord is faithful, providing wisdom to little ones.

{18:9} Iustitiæ Domini rectæ, lætificantes corda: præceptum Domini lucidum; illuminans oculos.
{18:9} The justice of the Lord is right, rejoicing hearts. The precepts of the Lord are brilliant, enlightening the eyes.

{18:10} Timor Domini sanctus, permanens in sæculum sæculi: iudicia Domini vera, iustificata in semetipsa.
{18:10} The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for all generations. The judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves:

{18:11} Desiderabilia super aurum et lapidem pretiosum multum: et dulciora super mel et favum.
{18:11} desirable beyond gold and many precious stones, and sweeter than honey and the honeycomb.

{18:12} Etenim servus tuus custodit ea, in custodiendis illis retributio multa.
{18:12} For, indeed, your servant keeps them, and in keeping them, there are many rewards.

{18:13} Delicta quis intelligit? ab occultis meis munda me:
{18:13} Who can understand transgression? From my hidden faults, cleanse me, O Lord,

{18:14} et ab alienis parce servo tuo. Si mei non fuerint dominati, tunc immaculatus ero: et emundabor a delicto maximo.
{18:14} and from those of others, spare your servant. If they will have no dominion over me, then I will be immaculate, and I will be cleansed from the greatest transgression.

{18:15} Et erunt ut complaceant eloquia oris mei: et meditatio cordis mei in conspectu tuo semper. Domine adiutor meus, et redemptor meus.
{18:15} And the eloquence of my mouth will be so as to please, along with the meditation of my heart, in your sight, forever, O Lord, my helper and my redeemer.

[Psalmus 19]
[Psalm 19] (20)

{19:1} In finem, Psalmus David.
{19:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David.

{19:2} Exaudiat te Dominus in die tribulationis: protegat te nomen Dei Iacob.
{19:2} May the Lord hear you in the day of tribulation. May the name of the God of Jacob protect you.

{19:3} Mittat tibi auxilium de sancto: et de Sion tueatur te.
{19:3} May he send you help from the sanctuary and watch over you from Zion.

{19:4} Memor sit omnis sacrificii tui: et holocaustum tuum pingue fiat.
{19:4} May he be mindful of all your sacrifices, and may your burnt-offerings be fat.

{19:5} Tribuat tibi secundum cor tuum: et omne consilium tuum confirmet.
{19:5} May he grant to you according to your heart, and confirm all your counsels.

{19:6} Lætabimur in salutari tuo: et in nomine Dei nostri magnificabimur.
{19:6} We will rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God, we will be magnified.

{19:7} Impleat Dominus omnes petitiones tuas: nunc cognovi quoniam salvum fecit Dominus CHRISTUM suum. Exaudiet illum de cælo sancto suo: in potentatibus salus dexteræ eius.
{19:7} May the Lord fulfill all your petitions. Now I know that the Lord has saved his Christ. He will hear him from his holy heaven. The salvation of his right hand is in his power.

{19:8} Hi in curribus, et hi in equis: nos autem in nomine Domini Dei nostri invocabimus.
{19:8} Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will call upon the name of the Lord our God.

{19:9} Ipsi obligati sunt, et ceciderunt: nos autem surreximus et erecti sumus.
{19:9} They have been bound, and they have fallen. But we have risen up, and we have been set upright.

{19:10} Domine salvum fac regem: et exaudi nos in die, qua invocaverimus te.
{19:10} O Lord, save the king, and hear us on the day that we will call upon you.

[Psalmus 20]
[Psalm 20] (21)

{20:1} In finem, Psalmus David.
{20:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David.

{20:2} Domine in virtute tua lætabitur rex: et super salutare tuum exultabit vehementer.
{20:2} In your virtue, Lord, the king will rejoice, and over your salvation, he will exult exceedingly.

{20:3} Desiderium cordis eius tribuisti ei: et voluntate labiorum eius non fraudasti eum.
{20:3} You have granted him the desire of his heart, and you have not cheated him of the wish of his lips.

{20:4} Quoniam prævenisti eum in benedictionibus dulcedinis: posuisti in capite eius coronam de lapide pretioso.
{20:4} For you have gone ahead of him with blessings of sweetness. You have placed a crown of precious stones on his head.

{20:5} Vitam petiit a te: et tribuisti ei longitudinem dierum in sæculum, et in sæculum sæculi.
{20:5} He petitioned you for life, and you have granted him length of days, in the present time, and forever and ever.

~ This expression ‘in sæculum, et in sæculum sæculi’ refers both to the here and now on earth, and to eternity. So his prayer for long life is answered by a long life on earth in his own generation (in sæculum), and in eternity (in sæculum sæculi).

{20:6} Magna est gloria eius in salutari tuo: gloriam et magnum decorem impones super eum.
{20:6} Great is his glory in your salvation. Glory and great adornment, you will lay upon him.

{20:7} Quoniam dabis eum in benedictionem in sæculum sæculi: lætificabis eum in gaudio cum vultu tuo.
{20:7} For you will give him as a blessing forever and ever. You will make him rejoice with gladness in your presence.

~ He himself is given to the people as a blessing upon them. The text is not merely saying that he is given blessings, but that he is given as a blessing. The one given as a blessing is Christ, foreshadowed by David.

{20:8} Quoniam rex sperat in Domino: et in misericordia Altissimi non commovebitur.
{20:8} Because the king hopes in the Lord, and in the mercy of the Most High, he will not be disturbed.

{20:9} Inveniatur manus tua omnibus inimicis tuis: dextera tua inveniat omnes, qui te oderunt.
{20:9} May your hand be found by all your enemies. May your right hand discover all those who hate you.

{20:10} Pones eos ut clibanum ignis in tempore vultus tui: Dominus in ira sua conturbabit eos, et devorabit eos ignis.
{20:10} You will make them like an oven of fire, in the time of your presence. The Lord will stir them up with his wrath, and fire will devour them.

{20:11} Fructum eorum de terra perdes: et semen eorum a filiis hominum.
{20:11} You will destroy their fruit from the earth and their offspring from the sons of men.

{20:12} Quoniam declinaverunt in te mala; cogitaverunt consilia, quæ non potuerunt stabilire.
{20:12} For they have turned evils upon you; they have devised plans, which they have not been able to accomplish.

{20:13} Quoniam pones eos dorsum: in reliquiis tuis præparabis vultum eorum.
{20:13} For you will make them turn their back; with your remnants, you will prepare their countenance.

~ The first part of this verse is an idiomatic expression which refers to the back as a point of weakness, as in battle when one’s enemy turns their back to you. The second part of the verse uses ‘vultum’ to refer to the expression on their faces after God punishes them, i.e. to the effect of the punishment.

{20:14} Exaltare Domine in virtute tua: cantabimus et psallemus virtutes tuas.
{20:14} Be exalted, Lord, by your own power. We will play music and sing psalms to your virtues.

~ The word ‘psallemus’ can refer to playing a musical instrument or to singing psalms. The word ‘cantabimus’ can refer to singing songs or playing a musical instrument. The overall meaning of those two words used together, in this context, is to play musical instruments and to sing psalms or hymns to God.

[Psalmus 21]
[Psalm 21] (22)

{21:1} In finem, pro susceptione matutina, Psalmus David.
{21:1} Unto the end. For the tasks of early morning. A Psalm of David.

~ This psalm is about the time of early morning, metaphorically referring to the end of a dark time, and to the beginning of a time of light, when God saves at the end of suffering. It is also a fitting psalm for the start of the day.

{21:2} Deus, Deus meus, respice in me: quare me dereliquisti? longe a salute mea verba delictorum meorum.
{21:2} O God, my God, look upon me. Why have you forsaken me? Far from my salvation are the words of my offenses.

{21:3} Deus meus clamabo per diem, et non exaudies: et nocte, et non ad insipientiam mihi.
{21:3} My God, I will cry out by day, and you will not heed, and by night, and it will not be foolishness for me.

{21:4} Tu autem in sancto habitas, Laus Israel.
{21:4} But you dwell in holiness, O Praise of Israel.

{21:5} In te speraverunt patres nostri: speraverunt, et liberasti eos.
{21:5} In you, our fathers have hoped. They hoped, and you freed them.

{21:6} Ad te clamaverunt, et salvi facti sunt: in te speraverunt, et non sunt confusi.
{21:6} They cried out to you, and they were saved. In you, they hoped and were not confounded.

{21:7} Ego autem sum vermis, et non homo: opprobrium hominum, et abiectio plebis.
{21:7} But I am a worm and not a man: a disgrace among men, and an outcast of the people.

{21:8} Omnes videntes me, deriserunt me: locuti sunt labiis, et moverunt caput.
{21:8} All those who saw me have derided me. They have spoken with the lips and shook the head.

{21:9} Speravit in Domino, eripiat eum: salvum faciat eum, quoniam vult eum.
{21:9} He has hoped in the Lord, let him rescue him. Let him save him because he chooses him.

{21:10} Quoniam tu es, qui extraxisti me de ventre: spes mea ab uberibus matris meæ.
{21:10} For you are the one who has drawn me out of the womb, my hope from the breasts of my mother.

{21:11} In te proiectus sum ex utero: de ventre matris meæ Deus meus es tu,
{21:11} I have been thrown upon you from the womb; from the womb of my mother, you are my God.

{21:12} ne discesseris a me: Quoniam tribulatio proxima est: quoniam non est qui adiuvet.
{21:12} Do not depart from me. For tribulation is near, since there is no one who may help me.

{21:13} Circumdederunt me vituli multi: tauri pingues obsederunt me.
{21:13} Many calves have surrounded me; fat bulls have besieged me.

{21:14} Aperuerunt super me os suum, sicut leo rapiens et rugiens.
{21:14}They have opened their mouths over me, just like a lion seizing and roaring.

{21:15} Sicut aqua effusus sum: et dispersa sunt omnia ossa mea. Factum est cor meum tamquam cera liquescens in medio ventris mei.
{21:15} And so, I have been poured out like water, and all my bones have been scattered. My heart has become like wax, melting in the midst of my chest.

{21:16} Aruit tamquam testa virtus mea, et lingua mea adhæsit faucibus meis: et in pulverem mortis deduxisti me.
{21:16} My strength has dried up like clay, and my tongue has adhered to my jaws. And you have pulled me down, into the dust of death.

{21:17} Quoniam circumdederunt me canes multi: concilium malignantium obsedit me. Foderunt manus meas et pedes meos:
{21:17} For many dogs have surrounded me. The council of the malicious has besieged me. They have pierced my hands and feet.

{21:18} dinumeraverunt omnia ossa mea. Ipsi vero consideraverunt et inspexerunt me:
{21:18} They have numbered all my bones. And they have examined me and stared at me.

{21:19} diviserunt sibi vestimenta mea, et super vestem meam miserunt sortem.
{21:19} They divided my garments among them, and over my vestment, they cast lots.

{21:20} Tu autem Domine ne elongaveris auxilium tuum a me: ad defensionem meam conspice.
{21:20} But you, O Lord, do not take your help far from me; be attentive to my defense.

{21:21} Erue a framea Deus animam meam: et de manu canis unicam meam:
{21:21} O God, rescue my soul from the spear, and my only one from the hand of the dog.

{21:22} Salva me ex ore leonis: et a cornibus unicornium humilitatem meam.
{21:22} Save me from the mouth of the lion, and my humility from the horns of the single-horned beast.

~ The word ‘unicornium’ does not refer to the mythical horse with a single horn. It refers literally to some type of wild animal with one horn in ancient times. This animal is most likely some species that has since gone extinct. Some have speculated that it could refer to the rhinoceros of India (Rhinoceros unicornis), which has one horn, unlike its African cousin, which has two horns. It also has a figurative meaning. Notice that the first part of the verse refers to being saved by lions. It is not the case that the Israelites were largely afraid of being eaten by lions; rather, the lion is figurative for a king or for governmental authority. Save me from governmental authority gone astray. Likewise, save my humility from the horns of the single-horned beast. This beast could represent law enforcement and military bodies gone astray. Guns and tanks can be figuratively said to have a single horn, yet they shoot many horns (bullets, etc.) from their single horn. May I be humble in the face of law enforcement and military authorities gone astray.

~ The single-horned beast can also be said to be a figure of the Antichrist’s kingdom. The figure of a horn is often used in the Old Testament to signify a leader of a kingdom. The Antichrist’s kingdom has a single horn, in the sense that he is one leader who will have dominion over nearly the whole world. And it has many horns, in that there are many other leaders who exercise authority under the Antichrist.

{21:23} Narrabo nomen tuum fratribus meis: in medio ecclesiæ laudabo te.
{21:23} I will declare your name to my brothers. In the midst of the Church, I will praise you.

{21:24} Qui timetis Dominum laudate eum: universum semen Iacob glorificate eum:
{21:24} You who fear the Lord, praise him. All the offspring of Jacob, glorify him.

{21:25} Timeat eum omne semen Israel: quoniam non sprevit, neque despexit deprecationem pauperis: Nec avertit faciem suam a me: et cum clamarem ad eum exaudivit me.
{21:25} May all the offspring of Israel fear him. For he has neither spurned nor despised the pleas of the poor. Neither has he turned his face away from me. And when I cried out to him, he heeded me.

{21:26} Apud te laus mea in ecclesia magna: vota mea reddam in conspectu timentium eum.
{21:26} My praise is with you, within a great church. I will pay my vows in the sight of those who fear him.

{21:27} Edent pauperes, et saturabuntur: et laudabunt Dominum qui requirunt eum: vivent corda eorum in sæculum sæculi.
{21:27} The poor will eat and be satisfied, and those who yearn for the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will live forever and ever.

{21:28} Reminiscentur et convertentur ad Dominum universi fines terræ: Et adorabunt in conspectu eius universæ familiæ Gentium.
{21:28} All the ends of the earth will remember, and they will be converted to the Lord. And all the families of the Gentiles will adore in his sight.

{21:29} Quoniam Domini est regnum: et ipse dominabitur Gentium.
{21:29} For the kingdom belongs to the Lord, and he will have dominion over the Gentiles.

{21:30} Manducaverunt et adoraverunt omnes pingues terræ: in conspectu eius cadent omnes qui descendunt in terram.
{21:30} All the fat of the earth have gnashed their teeth, and they have adored. In his sight, they will fall down, all those who descend to the ground.

{21:31} Et anima mea illi vivet: et semen meum serviet ipsi.
{21:31} And my soul will live for him, and my offspring will serve him.

{21:32} Annunciabitur Domino generatio ventura: et annunciabunt cæli iustitiam eius populo qui nascetur, quem fecit Dominus.
{21:32} There will be announced for the Lord a future generation, and the heavens will announce his justice to a people who will be born, whom the Lord has made.

~ The phrase ‘quem fecit Dominus’ refers to the people whom the Lord has made (a future generation, not yet born), not to the justice. The word ‘justitiam’ is feminine, but the word ‘populo’ and the word ‘quem’ are each masculine.

[Psalmus 22]
[Psalm 22] (23)

{22:1} Psalmus David. Dominus regit me, et nihil mihi deerit:
{22:1} A Psalm of David. The Lord directs me, and nothing will be lacking to me.

~ The often quoted phrasing: “The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want.” cannot be arrived at from the Latin. There is no mention of shepherd, but of the Lord guiding or directing. And the term ‘want’ is in the sense of ‘I shall not lack,’ not in the sense of ‘I shall not desire anything.’

{22:2} in loco pascuæ ibi me collocavit. Super aquam refectionis educavit me:
{22:2} He has settled me here, in a place of pasture. He has led me out to the water of refreshment.

~ The word ‘ibi’ generally means ‘there,’ but in this context, ‘here’ is a better fit. So, we start in a place of pasture, here. Then we go out to water of refreshment.

{22:3} animam meam convertit. Deduxit me super semitas iustitiæ, propter nomen suum.
{22:3} He has converted my soul. He has led me away on the paths of justice, for the sake of his name.

~ Next, we are led away on the path of righteousness, for the holy must go forth, out of safe pastures, to do the work of the Lord.

{22:4} Nam, et si ambulavero in medio umbræ mortis, non timebo mala: quoniam tu mecum es. Virga tua, et baculus tuus: ipsa me consolata sunt.
{22:4} For, even if I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils. For you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they have given me consolation.

~ On this journey of righteousness, we encounter danger and even the shadow of death. The rod and the staff, which give consolation, are the Sacraments of Confession (a rod of correction) and Communion (the bread of life is our staff for the journey of life). Notice that a word meaning ‘valley’ is not found in the Latin text.

{22:5} Parasti in conspectu meo mensam, adversus eos, qui tribulant me. Impinguasti in oleo caput meum: et calix meus inebrians quam præclarus est!
{22:5} You have prepared a table in my sight, opposite those who trouble me. You have anointed my head with oil, and my cup, which inebriates me, how brilliant it is!

{22:6} Et misericordia tua subsequetur me omnibus diebus vitæ meæ: et ut inhabitem in domo Domini, in longitudinem dierum.
{22:6} And your mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and so may I dwell in the house of the Lord for length of days.

[Psalmus 23]
[Psalm 23] (24)

{23:1} Prima sabbati, Psalmus David. Domini est terra, et plenitudo eius: orbis terrarum, et universi, qui habitant in eo.
{23:1} For the First Sabbath. A Psalm of David. The earth and all its fullness belong to the Lord: the whole world and all that dwells in it.

~ There are two First Sabbaths. The first of the First Sabbaths is the Sabbath during the Feast of Passover. After that Sabbath, the counting of the Feast of Weeks begins with the very next day. The first week in the counting of the Feast of Weeks ends with the second First Sabbath, that is, the First Sabbath in the count of Seven Sabbaths leading up to the Feast of Weeks. Because there was no clear concept of a number zero (which would, in modern counting be the first Sabbath of Passover), there must be two first Sabbaths.

{23:2} Quia ipse super maria fundavit eum: et super flumina præparavit eum.
{23:2} For he has founded it upon the seas, and he has prepared it upon the rivers.

{23:3} Quis ascendet in montem Domini? aut quis stabit in loco sancto eius?
{23:3} Who will ascend to the mountain of the Lord? And who will stand in his holy place?

{23:4} Innocens manibus et mundo corde, qui non accepit in vano animam suam, nec iuravit in dolo proximo suo.
{23:4} The innocent of hands and the clean of heart, who has not received his soul in vain, nor sworn deceitfully to his neighbor.

{23:5} Hic accipiet benedictionem a Domino: et misericordiam a Deo salutari suo.
{23:5} He will receive a blessing from the Lord, and mercy from God, his Saviour.

{23:6} Hæc est generatio quærentium eum, quærentium faciem Dei Iacob.
{23:6} This is the generation that seeks him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.

{23:7} Attollite portas principes vestras, et elevamini portæ æternales: et introibit Rex gloriæ.
{23:7} Lift up your gates, you princes, and be lifted up, eternal gates. And the King of Glory shall enter.

{23:8} Quis est iste rex gloriæ? Dominus fortis et potens: Dominus potens in prælio.
{23:8} Who is this King of Glory? The Lord who is strong and powerful; the Lord powerful in battle.

{23:9} Attollite portas principes vestras, et elevamini portæ æternales: et introibit Rex gloriæ.
{23:9} Lift up your gates, you princes, and be lifted up, eternal gates. And the King of Glory shall enter.

{23:10} Quis est iste rex gloriæ? Dominus virtutum ipse est Rex gloriæ.
{23:10} Who is this King of Glory? The Lord of virtue. He himself is the King of Glory.

[Psalmus 24]
[Psalm 24] (25)

{24:1} In finem, Psalmus David. Ad te Domine levavi animam meam:
{24:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David. To you, Lord, I have lifted up my soul.

{24:2} Deus meus in te confido, non erubescam:
{24:2} In you, my God, I trust. Let me not be put to shame.

{24:3} Neque irrideant me inimici mei: etenim universi, qui sustinent te, non confundentur.
{24:3} And do not let my enemies laugh at me. For all who remain with you will not be confounded.

{24:4} Confundantur omnes iniqua agentes supervacue. Vias tuas Domine demonstra mihi: et semitas tuas edoce me.
{24:4} May all those who act unjustly over nothing be confounded. O Lord, demonstrate your ways to me, and teach me your paths.

{24:5} Dirige me in veritate tua, et doce me: quia tu es Deus salvator meus, et te sustinui tota die.
{24:5} Direct me in your truth, and teach me. For you are God, my Saviour, and I remain with you all day long.

{24:6} Reminiscere miserationum tuarum Domine, et misericordiarum tuarum, quæ a sæculo sunt.
{24:6} O Lord, remember your compassion and your mercies, which are from ages past.

~ Or, ‘which are from time immemorial.’

{24:7} Delicta iuventutis meæ, et ignorantias meas ne memineris. Secundum misericordiam tuam memento mei tu: propter bonitatem tuam Domine.
{24:7} Do not remember the offenses of my youth and my ignorances. Remember me according to your mercy, because of your goodness, O Lord.

{24:8} Dulcis et rectus Dominus: propter hoc legem dabit delinquentibus in via.
{24:8} The Lord is sweet and righteous. Because of this, he will grant a law to those who fall short in the way.

~ Those who fall short in following the Way of Christ will be granted laws to help them along the way.

{24:9} Diriget mansuetos in iudicio: docebit mites vias suas.
{24:9} He will direct the mild in judgment. He will teach the meek his ways.

{24:10} Universæ viæ Domini, misericordia et veritas, requirentibus testamentum eius et testimonia eius.
{24:10} All the ways of the Lord are mercy and truth, to those who yearn for his covenant and his testimonies.

{24:11} Propter nomen tuum Domine propitiaberis peccato meo: multum est enim.
{24:11} Because of your name, O Lord, you will pardon my sin, for it is great.

{24:12} Quis est homo qui timet Dominum? legem statuit ei in via, quam elegit.
{24:12} Which is the man who fears the Lord? He has established a law for him, on the way that he has chosen.

{24:13} Anima eius in bonis demorabitur: et semen eius hereditabit terram.
{24:13} His soul will dwell upon good things, and his offspring will inherit the earth.

{24:14} Firmamentum est Dominus timentibus eum: et testamentum ipsius ut manifestetur illis.
{24:14} The Lord is a firmament to those who fear him, and his covenant will be made manifest to them.

{24:15} Oculi mei semper ad Dominum: quoniam ipse evellet de laqueo pedes meos.
{24:15} My eyes are ever toward the Lord, for he will pull my feet from the snare.

{24:16} Respice in me, et miserere mei: quia unicus et pauper sum ego.
{24:16} Look upon me and have mercy on me; for I am alone and poor.

{24:17} Tribulationes cordis mei multiplicatæ sunt: de necessitatibus meis erue me.
{24:17} The troubles of my heart have been multiplied. Deliver me from my needfulness.

{24:18} Vide humilitatem meam, et laborem meum: et dimitte universa delicta mea.
{24:18} See my lowliness and my hardship, and release all my offenses.

{24:19} Respice inimicos meos quoniam multiplicati sunt, et odio iniquo oderunt me.
{24:19} Consider my enemies, for they have been multiplied, and they have hated me with an unjust hatred.

{24:20} Custodi animam meam, et erue me: non erubescam, quoniam speravi in te.
{24:20} Preserve my soul and rescue me. I will not be ashamed, for I have hoped in you.

{24:21} Innocentes et recti adhæserunt mihi: quia sustinui te.
{24:21} The innocent and the righteous have adhered to me, because I have remained with you.

{24:22} Libera Deus Israel ex omnibus tribulationibus suis.
{24:22} Free Israel, O God, from all his tribulations.

[Psalmus 25]
[Psalm 25] (26)

{25:1} In finem, Psalmus David. Iudica me Domine, quoniam ego in innocentia mea ingressus sum: et in Domino sperans non infirmabor.
{25:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David. Judge me, Lord, for I have been walking in my innocence, and by hoping in the Lord, I will not be weakened.

{25:2} Proba me Domine, et tenta me: ure renes meos et cor meum.
{25:2} Examine me, Lord, and test me: enkindle my temperament and my heart.

~ Here again ‘renes’ literally means ‘kidneys,’ but is used metaphorically to refer to one’s temperament.

{25:3} Quoniam misericordia tua ante oculos meos est: et complacui in veritate tua.
{25:3} For your mercy is before my eyes, and I am serene in your truth.

{25:4} Non sedi cum concilio vanitatis: et cum iniqua gerentibus non introibo.
{25:4} I have not sat with the council of emptiness, and I will not enter with those who carry out injustice.

{25:5} Odivi ecclesiam malignantium: et cum impiis non sedebo.
{25:5} I have hated the assembly of the malicious; and I will not sit with the impious.

{25:6} Lavabo inter innocentes manus meas: et circumdabo altare tuum Domine:
{25:6} I will wash my hands among the innocent, and I will surround your altar, O Lord,

{25:7} Ut audiam vocem laudis, et enarrem universa mirabilia tua.
{25:7} so that I may hear the voice of your praise and describe all your wonders.

{25:8} Domine dilexi decorem domus tuæ, et locum habitationis gloriæ tuæ.
{25:8} O Lord, I have loved the beauty of your house and the dwelling place of your glory.

{25:9} Ne perdas cum impiis Deus animam meam, et cum viris sanguinum vitam meam:
{25:9} O God, do not let my soul perish with the impious, nor my life with the men of blood,

{25:10} In quorum manibus iniquitates sunt: dextera eorum repleta est muneribus.
{25:10} in whose hands are iniquities: their right hand has been filled by bribes.

{25:11} Ego autem in innocentia mea ingressus sum: redime me, et miserere mei.
{25:11} But as for me, I have been walking in my innocence. Redeem me, and have mercy on me.

{25:12} Pes meus stetit in directo: in ecclesiis benedicam te Domine.
{25:12} My foot has stood firm in the straight path. In the churches, I will bless you, O Lord.

[Psalmus 26]
[Psalm 26] (27)

{26:1} Psalmus David priusquam liniretur. Dominus illuminatio mea, et salus mea, quem timebo? Dominus protector vitæ meæ, a quo trepidabo?
{26:1} A Psalm of David, before he was sealed. The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the protector of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?

~ Or, ‘before he was anointed.’ David is similar in many respects to the great monarch, who will receive the visible seal of God on his forehead, prior to beginning his reign as king of that vast territory formerly occupied by the Arab nations (led by Iraq and Iran).

{26:2} Dum appropiant super me nocentes, ut edant carnes meas: Qui tribulant me inimici mei, ipsi infirmati sunt et ceciderunt.
{26:2} Meanwhile, the guilty draw near to me, so as to eat my flesh. Those who trouble me, my enemies, have themselves been weakened and have fallen.

{26:3} Si consistant adversum me castra, non timebit cor meum. Si exurgat adversum me prælium, in hoc ego sperabo.
{26:3} If entrenched armies were to stand together against me, my heart would not fear. If a battle were to rise up against me, I would have hope in this.

{26:4} Unam petii a Domino, hanc requiram, ut inhabitem in domo Domini omnibus diebus vitæ meæ: Ut videam voluptatem Domini, et visitem templum eius.
{26:4} One thing I have asked of the Lord, this I will seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, so that I may behold the delight of the Lord, and may visit his temple.

{26:5} Quoniam abscondit me in tabernaculo suo: in die malorum protexit me in abscondito tabernaculi sui.
{26:5} For he has hidden me in his tabernacle. In the day of evils, he has protected me in the hidden place of his tabernacle.

~ During the latter half of the Antichrist’s reign (3.5 years), a part of the Church will be hidden from the world in a secret place.

{26:6} In petra exaltavit me: et nunc exaltavit caput meum super inimicos meos. Circuivi, et immolavi in tabernaculo eius hostiam vociferationis: cantabo, et psalmum dicam Domino.
{26:6} He has exalted me upon the rock, and now he has exalted my head above my enemies. I have circled around and offered a sacrifice of loud exclamation in his tabernacle. I will sing, and I will compose a psalm, to the Lord.

~ The word ‘vociferationis’ does not refer specifically to jubilation, but to a loud, even disruptive outcry, either of protest or of gladness. The Rock upon which he is exalted is the Church. This psalm is about David, who composed psalms to the Lord; therefore, the translation ‘compose a psalm’ is more fitting than merely ‘recite a psalm.’ Also, the word psalm is singular here. If the meaning were merely to recite rather than to compose, then the word psalm would likely be plural.

{26:7} Exaudi Domine vocem meam, qua clamavi ad te: miserere mei, et exaudi me.
{26:7} Hear my voice, O Lord, with which I have cried out to you. Have mercy on me, and hear me.

{26:8} Tibi dixit cor meum, exquisivit te facies mea: faciem tuam Domine requiram.
{26:8} My heart has spoken to you; my face has sought you. I yearn for your face, O Lord.

{26:9} Ne avertas faciem tuam a me: ne declines in ira a servo tuo. Adiutor meus esto: ne derelinquas me, neque despicias me Deus salutaris meus.
{26:9} Do not turn your face away from me. In your wrath, do not turn aside from your servant. Be my helper. Do not abandon me, and do not despise me, O God, my Saviour.

{26:10} Quoniam pater meus, et mater mea dereliquerunt me: Dominus autem assumpsit me.
{26:10} For my father and my mother have left me behind, but the Lord has taken me up.

{26:11} Legem pone mihi Domine in via tua: et dirige me in semitam rectam propter inimicos meos.
{26:11} O Lord, establish a law for me in your way, and direct me in the right path, because of my enemies.

{26:12} Ne tradideris me in animas tribulantium me: quoniam insurrexerunt in me testes iniqui, et mentita est iniquitas sibi.
{26:12} Do not surrender me to the souls of those who trouble me. For unjust witnesses have risen up against me, and iniquity has lied to itself.

{26:13} Credo videre bona Domini in terra viventium.
{26:13} I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

{26:14} Expecta Dominum, viriliter age: et confortetur cor tuum, et sustine Dominum.
{26:14} Wait for the Lord, act manfully; and let your heart be strengthened, and remain with the Lord.

~ Most translations obscure this male reference (‘viriliter’), or drop the phrase entirely. “... and if anyone takes away from the words in this prophetic book, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city described in this book.” (Rev 22:19). This translation does not omit or deliberately obscure gender-specific references in the words of Sacred Scripture.

[Psalmus 27]
[Psalm 27] (28)

{27:1} Psalmus ipsi David. Ad te Domine clamabo, Deus meus ne sileas a me: ne quando taceas a me, et assimilabor descendentibus in lacum.
{27:1} A Psalm of David himself. To you, Lord, I will cry out. My God, do not be silent toward me. For if you remain silent toward me, I will become like those who descend into the pit.

{27:2} Exaudi Domine vocem deprecationis meæ dum oro ad te: dum extollo manus meas ad templum sanctum tuum.
{27:2} Hear, O Lord, the voice of my supplication, when I pray to you, when I lift up my hands toward your holy temple.

{27:3} Ne simul trahas me cum peccatoribus: et cum operantibus iniquitatem ne perdas me: Qui loquuntur pacem cum proximo suo, mala autem in cordibus eorum.
{27:3} Do not draw me away together with sinners; and let me not perish with those who work iniquity, who speak peacefully to their neighbor, yet evils are in their hearts.

{27:4} Da illis secundum opera eorum, et secundum nequitiam adinventionum ipsorum. Secundum opera manuum eorum tribue illis: redde retributionem eorum ipsis.
{27:4} Give to them according to their works and according to the wickedness of their inventions. Assign to them according to the works of their hands. Repay them with their own retribution.

{27:5} Quoniam non intellexerunt opera Domini, et in opera manuum eius destrues illos, et non ædificabis eos.
{27:5} Since they have not understood the works of the Lord and the works of his hands, you will destroy them, and you will not build them up.

{27:6} Benedictus Dominus: quoniam exaudivit vocem deprecationis meæ.
{27:6} Blessed is the Lord, for he has heard the voice of my supplication.

{27:7} Dominus adiutor meus, et protector meus: in ipso speravit cor meum, et adiutus sum. Et refloruit caro mea: et ex voluntate mea confitebor ei.
{27:7} The Lord is my helper and my protector. In him, my heart has hoped and I have been helped. And my flesh has flourished again. And from my will, I shall confess to him.

{27:8} Dominus fortitudo plebis suæ: et protector salvationum Christi sui est.
{27:8} The Lord is the strength of his people and the protector of the salvation of his Christ.

~ The term ‘Christ’ in the Old Testament can refer to Jesus Christ and/or it can refer to one who is anointed and who foreshadows the Christ, such as David.

{27:9} Salvum fac populum tuum Domine, et benedic hereditati tuæ: et rege eos, et extolle illos usque in æternum.
{27:9} O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance, and reign over them and exalt them, even unto eternity.

[Psalmus 28]
[Psalm 28] (29)

{28:1} Psalmus David, In consummatione tabernaculi. Afferte Domino filii Dei: afferte Domino filios arietum:
{28:1} A Psalm of David, at the completion of the tabernacle. Bring to the Lord, O sons of God, bring to the Lord the sons of rams.

{28:2} Afferte Domino gloriam et honorem, afferte Domino gloriam nomini eius: adorate Dominum in atrio sancto eius.
{28:2} Bring to the Lord, glory and honor. Bring to the Lord, glory for his name. Adore the Lord in his holy court.

{28:3} Vox Domini super aquas, Deus maiestatis intonuit: Dominus super aquas multas.
{28:3} The voice of the Lord is over the waters. The God of majesty has thundered. The Lord is over many waters.

{28:4} Vox Domini in virtute: vox Domini in magnificentia.
{28:4} The voice of the Lord is in virtue. The voice of the Lord is in magnificence.

{28:5} Vox Domini confringentis cedros: et confringet Dominus cedros Libani:
{28:5} The voice of the Lord shatters the cedars. And the Lord will shatter the cedars of Lebanon.

{28:6} Et comminuet eas tamquam vitulum Libani: et dilectus quemadmodum filius unicornium.
{28:6} And it will break them into pieces, like a calf of Lebanon, and in the same way as the beloved son of the single-horned beast.

{28:7} Vox Domini intercidentis flammam ignis:
{28:7} The voice of the Lord cuts through the flame of fire.

{28:8} vox Domini concutientis desertum: et commovebit Dominus desertum Cades.
{28:8} The voice of the Lord shakes the desert. And the Lord will quake the desert of Kadesh.

{28:9} Vox Domini præparantis cervos, et revelabit condensa: et in templo eius omnes dicent gloriam.
{28:9} The voice of the Lord is preparing the stags, and he will reveal the dense woods. And in his temple, all will speak his glory.

{28:10} Dominus diluvium inhabitare facit: et sedebit Dominus Rex in æternum.
{28:10} The Lord causes the great flood to dwell. And the Lord will sit as King in eternity.

~ The great flood is a great flood of people who return to the Lord and who, thereafter, dwell with him.

{28:11} Dominus virtutem populo suo dabit: Dominus benedicet populo suo in pace.
{28:11} The Lord will give virtue to his people. The Lord will bless his people in peace.

[Psalmus 29]
[Psalm 29] (30)

{29:1} Psalmus Cantici In dedicatione domus David.
{29:1} A Canticle Psalm. In dedication to the house of David.

{29:2} Exaltabo te Domine quoniam suscepisti me: nec delectasti inimicos meos super me.
{29:2} I will extol you, Lord, for you have sustained me, and you have not allowed my enemies to delight over me.

{29:3} Domine Deus meus clamavi ad te, et sanasti me.
{29:3} O Lord my God, I have cried out to you, and you have healed me.

{29:4} Domine eduxisti ab inferno animam meam: salvasti me a descendentibus in lacum.
{29:4} Lord, you led my soul away from Hell. You have saved me from those who descend into the pit.

{29:5} Psallite Domino sancti eius: et confitemini memoriæ sanctitatis eius.
{29:5} Sing a psalm to the Lord, you his saints, and confess with remembrance of his holiness.

{29:6} Quoniam ira in indignatione eius: et vita in voluntate eius. Ad vesperum demorabitur fletus: et ad matutinum lætitia.
{29:6} For wrath is in his indignation, and life is in his will. Toward evening, weeping will linger, and toward morning, gladness.

{29:7} Ego autem dixi in abundantia mea: Non movebor in æternum.
{29:7} But I have said in my abundance: “I will never be disturbed.”

{29:8} Domine in voluntate tua, præstitisti decori meo virtutem. Avertisti faciem tuam a me, et factus sum conturbatus.
{29:8} O Lord, in your will, you made virtue preferable to beauty for me. You turned your face away from me, and I became disturbed.

{29:9} Ad te Domine clamabo: et ad Deum meum deprecabor.
{29:9} To you, Lord, I will cry out. And I will make supplication to my God.

{29:10} Quæ utilitas in sanguine meo, dum descendo in corruptionem? Numquid confitebitur tibi pulvis, aut annunciabit veritatem tuam?
{29:10} What use would there be in my blood, if I descend into corruption? Will dust confess to you or announce your truth?

{29:11} Audivit Dominus, et misertus est mei: Dominus factus est adiutor meus.
{29:11} The Lord has heard, and he has been merciful to me. The Lord has become my helper.

{29:12} Convertisti planctum meum in gaudium mihi: conscidisti saccum meum, et circumdedisti me lætitia:
{29:12} You have turned my mourning into gladness for me. You have cut off my sackcloth, and you have surrounded me with joy.

{29:13} Ut cantet tibi gloria mea: et non compungar: Domine Deus meus in æternum confitebor tibi.
{29:13} So then, may my glory sing to you, and may I not regret it. O Lord, my God, I will confess to you for eternity.

[Psalmus 30]
[Psalm 30] (31)

{30:1} In finem, Psalmus David, pro extasi.
{30:1} Unto the end. A Psalm of David according to an ecstasy.

{30:2} In te Domine speravi non confundar in æternum: in iustitia tua libera me.
{30:2} In you, Lord, I have hoped; let me never be confounded. In your justice, deliver me.

{30:3} Inclina ad me aurem tuam, accelera ut eruas me. Esto mihi in Deum protectorem: et in domum refugii, ut salvum me facias.
{30:3} Incline your ear to me. Hasten to rescue me. Be for me a protector God and a house of refuge, so as to accomplish my salvation.

{30:4} Quoniam fortitudo mea, et refugium meum es tu: et propter nomen tuum deduces me, et enutries me.
{30:4} For you are my strength and my refuge; and for the sake of your name, you will lead me and nourish me.

{30:5} Educes me de laqueo hoc, quem absconderunt mihi: quoniam tu es protector meus.
{30:5} You will lead me out of this snare, which they have hidden for me. For you are my protector.

{30:6} In manus tuas commendo spiritum meum: redemisti me Domine Deus veritatis.
{30:6} Into your hands, I commend my spirit. You have redeemed me, O Lord, God of truth.

{30:7} Odisti observantes vanitates, supervacue. Ego autem in Domino speravi:
{30:7} You have hated those who practice emptiness to no purpose. But I have hoped in the Lord.

{30:8} exultabo, et lætabor in misericordia tua. Quoniam respexisti humilitatem meam, salvasti de necessitatibus animam meam.
{30:8} I will exult and rejoice in your mercy. For you have looked upon my humility; you have saved my soul from needfulness.

{30:9} Nec conclusisti me in manibus inimici: statuisti in loco spatioso pedes meos.
{30:9} And you have not enclosed me in the hands of the enemy. You have set my feet in a spacious place.

{30:10} Miserere mei Domine quoniam tribulor: conturbatus est in ira oculus meus, anima mea, et venter meus:
{30:10} Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am troubled. My eye has been disturbed by wrath, along with my soul and my gut.

{30:11} Quoniam defecit in dolore vita mea: et anni mei in gemitibus. Infirmata est in paupertate virtus mea: et ossa mea conturbata sunt.
{30:11} For my life has fallen into sorrow, and my years into sighing. My virtue has been weakened in poverty, and my bones have been disturbed.

{30:12} Super omnes inimicos meos factus sum opprobrium et vicinis meis valde: et timor notis meis. Qui videbant me, foras fugerunt a me:
{30:12} I have become a disgrace among all my enemies, and even more so to my neighbors, and a dread to my acquaintances. Those who catch sight of me, flee away from me.

{30:13} oblivioni datus sum, tamquam mortuus a corde. Factus sum tamquam vas perditum:
{30:13} I have become forgotten, like one dead to the heart. I have become like a damaged utensil.

{30:14} quoniam audivi vituperationem multorum commorantium in circuitu: In eo dum convenirent simul adversum me, accipere animam meam consiliati sunt.
{30:14} For I have heard the harsh criticism of many who linger in the area. While assembled together against me in that place, they deliberated on how to take away my life.

~ The phrase ‘commorantium in circuitu’ refers to people who are not living in the general area, but who have come to the area and are lingering there. The phrase ‘in eo’ refers to the phrase ‘in circuitu,’ i.e. it refers to a place, so it is translated loosely as ‘there,’ rather than as ‘in it.’

{30:15} Ego autem in te speravi Domine: dixi: Deus meus es tu:
{30:15} But I have hoped in you, O Lord. I said, “You are my God.”

{30:16} in manibus tuis sortes meæ. Eripe me de manu inimicorum meorum, et a persequentibus me.
{30:16} My fate is in your hands. Rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from those who are persecuting me.

{30:17} Illustra faciem tuam super servum tuum, salvum me fac in misericordia tua:
{30:17} Shine your face upon your servant. Save me in your mercy.

{30:18} Domine non confundar, quoniam invocavi te. Erubescant impii, et deducantur in infernum:
{30:18} Do not let me be confounded, Lord, for I have called upon you. Let the impious be ashamed and be drawn down into Hell.

{30:19} muta fiant labia dolosa. Quæ loquuntur adversus iustum iniquitatem, in superbia, et in abusione.
{30:19} May deceitful lips be silenced: those that speak iniquity against the just, in arrogance and in abusiveness.

{30:20} Quam magna multitudo dulcedinis tuæ Domine, quam abscondisti timentibus te. Perfecisti eis, qui sperant in te, in conspectu filiorum hominum.
{30:20} How great is the multitude of your sweetness, O Lord, which you keep hidden for those who fear you, which you have perfected for those who hope in you, in the sight of the sons of men.

{30:21} Abscondes eos in abscondito faciei tuæ a conturbatione hominum. Proteges eos in tabernaculo tuo a contradictione linguarum.
{30:21} You hide them in the concealment of your face, from the disturbance of men. You protect them in your tabernacle, from the contradiction of tongues.

{30:22} Benedictus Dominus: quoniam mirificavit misericordiam suam mihi in civitate munita.
{30:22} Blessed is the Lord. For he has shown his wonderful mercy to me, in a fortified city.

{30:23} Ego autem dixi in excessu mentis meæ: Proiectus sum a facie oculorum tuorum. Ideo exaudisti vocem orationis meæ, dum clamarem ad te.
{30:23} But I said in the excess of my mind: “I have been cast away from the glance of your eyes.” And so, you heeded the voice of my prayer, while I was still crying out to you.

{30:24} Diligite Dominum omnes sancti eius: quoniam veritatem requiret Dominus, et retribuet abundanter facientibus superbiam.
{30:24} Love the Lord, all you his saints. For the Lord will require truth, and he will abundantly repay those who act with arrogance.

{30:25} Viriliter agite, et confortetur cor vestrum, omnes qui speratis in Domino.
{30:25} Act manfully, and let your heart be strengthened, all you who hope in the Lord.

[Psalmus 31]
[Psalm 31] (32)

{31:1} Ipsi David intellectus. Beati, quorum remissæ sunt iniquitates: et quorum tecta sunt peccata.
{31:1} The understanding of David himself. Blessed are they whose iniquities have been forgiven and whose sins have been covered.

~ Or, “The understanding of David to himself.” Or, “David’s own understanding.” This phrase has been often misunderstood. The word ‘intellectus’ is nominative, so it is the subject. The name David, and other non-Latin names written in Latin, often do not change their ending, despite being in various cases in various sentences. The word ‘David’ in this sentence is genitive (the understanding of David, or, David’s understanding). The word ‘ipsi’ is dative (to himself), but in English we would express this idea not by saying ‘The understanding of David to himself,’ but by saying, ‘The understanding of David himself.’ In other words, this psalm is about David’s own understanding. It is a psalm that describes things from David’s point of view.

{31:2} Beatus vir, cui non imputavit Dominus peccatum, nec est in spiritu eius dolus.
{31:2} Blessed is the man to whom the Lord has not imputed sin, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

{31:3} Quoniam tacui, inveteraverunt ossa mea, dum clamarem tota die.
{31:3} Because I was silent, my bones grew old, while still I cried out all day long.

{31:4} Quoniam die ac nocte gravata est super me manus tua: conversus sum in ærumna mea, dum configitur spina.
{31:4} For, day and night, your hand was heavy upon me. I have been converted in my anguish, while still the thorn is piercing.

{31:5} Delictum meum cognitum tibi feci: et iniustitiam meam non abscondi. Dixi: Confitebor adversum me iniustitiam meam Domino: et tu remisisti impietatem peccati mei.
{31:5} I have acknowledged my offense to you, and I have not concealed my injustice. I said, “I will confess against myself, my injustice to the Lord,” and you forgave the impiety of my sin.

{31:6} Pro hac orabit ad te omnis sanctus, in tempore opportuno. Verumtamen in diluvio aquarum multarum, ad eum non approximabunt.
{31:6} For this, everyone who is holy will pray to you in due time. Yet truly, in a flood of many waters, they will not draw near to him.

~ A flood immediately precedes the reign of the Antichrist over the world. Those who repent before God will not draw near to him (the Antichrist) during that time.

{31:7} Tu es refugium meum a tribulatione, quæ circumdedit me: exultatio mea erue me a circumdantibus me.
{31:7} You are my refuge from the tribulation that has surrounded me. You are my exultation: rescue me from those who are surrounding me.

{31:8} Intellectum tibi dabo, et instruam te in via hac, qua gradieris: firmabo super te oculos meos.
{31:8} I will give you understanding, and I will instruct you in this way, in which you will walk. I will fix my eyes upon you.

{31:9} Nolite fieri sicut equus et mulus, quibus non est intellectus. In camo et freno maxillas eorum constringe, qui non approximant ad te.
{31:9} Do not become like the horse and the mule, which have no understanding. Their jaws are constrained with bit and bridle, so as not to draw near to you.

{31:10} Multa flagella peccatoris, sperantem autem in Domino misericordia circumdabit.
{31:10} Many are the scourges of the sinner, but mercy will surround him that hopes in the Lord.

{31:11} Lætamini in Domino et exultate iusti, et gloriamini omnes recti corde.
{31:11} Rejoice in the Lord and exult, you just ones, and glory, all you upright of heart.

[Psalmus 32]
[Psalm 32] (33)

{32:1} Psalmus David. Exultate iusti in Domino: rectos decet collaudatio.
{32:1} A Psalm of David. Exult in the Lord, you just ones; together praise the upright.

{32:2} Confitemini Domino in cithara: in psalterio decem chordarum psallite illi.
{32:2} Confess to the Lord with stringed instruments; sing psalms to him with the psaltery, the instrument of ten strings.

{32:3} Cantate ei canticum novum: bene psallite ei in vociferatione.
{32:3} Sing to him a new song. Sing psalms to him skillfully, with loud exclamation.

{32:4} Quia rectum est verbum Domini, et omnia opera eius in fide.
{32:4} For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his works are in faith.

{32:5} Diligit misericordiam et iudicium: misericordia Domini plena est terra.
{32:5} He loves mercy and judgment. The earth is full of the mercy of the Lord.

{32:6} Verbo Domini cæli firmati sunt: et spiritu oris eius omnis virtus eorum.
{32:6} By the word of the Lord, the heavens were established, and all their power, by the Spirit of his mouth:

{32:7} Congregans sicut in utre aquas maris: ponens in thesauris abyssos.
{32:7} gathering together the waters of the sea, as if in a container, placing the depths in storage.

{32:8} Timeat Dominum omnis terra: ab eo autem commoveantur omnes inhabitantes orbem.
{32:8} Let all the earth fear the Lord, and may all the inhabitants of the world quake before him.

{32:9} Quoniam ipse dixit, et facta sunt: ipse mandavit, et creata sunt.
{32:9} For he spoke, and they became. He commanded, and they were created.

{32:10} Dominus dissipat consilia gentium: reprobat autem cogitationes populorum, et reprobat consilia principum.
{32:10} The Lord scatters the counsels of the nations. Moreover, he reproves the thoughts of the people, and he rejects the counsels of the leaders.

~ Democracy is not necessarily good, nor does it necessarily please God.

{32:11} Consilium autem Domini in æternum manet: cogitationes cordis eius in generatione et generationem.
{32:11} But the counsel of the Lord remains for eternity, the thoughts of his heart from generation to generation.

{32:12} Beata gens, cuius est Dominus, Deus eius: populus, quem elegit in hereditatem sibi.
{32:12} Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his inheritance.

{32:13} De cælo respexit Dominus: vidit omnes filios hominum.
{32:13} The Lord has looked down from heaven. He has seen all the sons of men.

{32:14} De præparato habitaculo suo respexit super omnes, qui habitant terram.
{32:14} From his well-prepared dwelling place, he has gazed upon all who dwell on the earth.

{32:15} Qui finxit sigillatim corda eorum: qui intelligit omnia opera eorum.
{32:15} He has formed the hearts of each one of them; he understands all their works.

{32:16} Non salvatur rex per multam virtutem: et gigas non salvabitur in multitudine virtutis suæ.
{32:16} The king is not saved by great power, nor will the giant be saved by his many powers.

{32:17} Fallax equus ad salutem: in abundantia autem virtutis suæ non salvabitur.
{32:17} The horse is false safety; for he will not be saved by the abundance of his powers.

{32:18} Ecce oculi Domini super metuentes eum: et in eis, qui sperant super misericordia eius.
{32:18} Behold, the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him and on those who hope in his mercy,

{32:19} Ut eruat a morte animas eorum: et alat eos in fame.
{32:19} so as to rescue their souls from death and to feed them during famine.

{32:20} Anima nostra sustinet Dominum: quoniam adiutor et protector noster est.
{32:20} Our soul remains with the Lord. For he is our helper and protector.

{32:21} Quia in eo lætabitur cor nostrum: et in nomine sancto eius speravimus.
{32:21} For in him, our heart will rejoice, and in his holy name, we have hoped.

{32:22} Fiat misericordia tua Domine super nos: quemadmodum speravimus in te.
{32:22} Let your mercy be upon us, O Lord, just as we have hoped in you.

[Psalmus 33]
[Psalm 33] (34)

{33:1} Davidi, cum immutavit vultum suum coram Achimelech, et dimisit eum et abiit.
{33:1} To David, when he changed his appearance in the sight of Abimelech, and so he dismissed him, and he went away.

{33:2} Benedicam Dominum in omni tempore: semper laus eius in ore meo.
{33:2} I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise will be ever in my mouth.

{33:3} In Domino laudabitur anima mea: audiant mansueti, et lætentur.
{33:3} In the Lord, my soul will be praised. May the meek listen and rejoice.

{33:4} Magnificate Dominum mecum: et exaltemus nomen eius in idipsum.
{33:4} Magnify the Lord with me, and let us extol his name in itself.

{33:5} Exquisivi Dominum, et exaudivit me: et ex omnibus tribulationibus meis eripuit me.
{33:5} I sought the Lord, and he heeded me, and he carried me away from all my tribulations.

{33:6} Accedite ad eum, et illuminamini: et facies vestræ non confundentur.
{33:6} Approach him and be enlightened, and your faces will not be confounded.

{33:7} Iste pauper clamavit, et Dominus exaudivit eum: et de omnibus tribulationibus eius salvavit eum.
{33:7} This poor one cried out, and the Lord heeded him, and he saved him from all his tribulations.

{33:8} Immittet angelus Domini in circuitu timentium eum: et eripiet eos.
{33:8} The Angel of the Lord will encamp around those who fear him, and he will rescue them.

{33:9} Gustate, et videte quoniam suavis est Dominus: beatus vir, qui sperat in eo.
{33:9} Taste and see that the Lord is sweet. Blessed is the man who hopes in him.

{33:10} Timete Dominum omnes sancti eius: quoniam non est inopia timentibus eum.
{33:10} Fear the Lord, all you his saints. For there is no destitution for those who fear him.

{33:11} Divites eguerunt et esurierunt: inquirentes autem Dominum non minuentur omni bono.
{33:11} The rich have been needy and hungry, but those who seek the Lord will not be deprived of any good thing.

{33:12} Venite filii, audite me: timorem Domini docebo vos.
{33:12} Come forward, sons. Listen to me. I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

{33:13} Quis est homo qui vult vitam: diligit dies videre bonos?
{33:13} Which is the man who wills life, who chooses to see good days?

{33:14} Prohibe linguam tuam a malo: et labia tua ne loquantur dolum.
{33:14} Prohibit your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

{33:15} Diverte a malo, et fac bonum: inquire pacem, et persequere eam.
{33:15} Turn away from evil, and do good. Inquire about peace, and pursue it.

{33:16} Oculi Domini super iustos: et aures eius in preces eorum.
{33:16} The eyes of the Lord are on the just, and his ears are with their prayers.

{33:17} Vultus autem Domini super facientes mala: ut perdat de terra memoriam eorum.
{33:17} But the countenance of the Lord is upon those who do evil, to perish the remembrance of them from the earth.

{33:18} Clamaverunt iusti, et Dominus exaudivit eos: et ex omnibus tribulationibus eorum liberavit eos.
{33:18} The just cried out, and the Lord heard them, and he freed them from all their tribulations.

{33:19} Iuxta est Dominus iis, qui tribulato sunt corde: et humiles spiritu salvabit.
{33:19} The Lord is near to those who are troubled in heart, and he will save the humble in spirit.

{33:20} Multæ tribulationes iustorum: et de omnibus his liberabit eos Dominus.
{33:20} Many are the afflictions of the just, but from them all the Lord will free them.

{33:21} Custodit Dominus omnia ossa eorum: unum ex his non conteretur.
{33:21} The Lord preserves all of their bones, not one of them shall be broken.

{33:22} Mors peccatorum pessima: et qui oderunt iustum delinquent.
{33:22} The death of a sinner is very harmful, and those who hate the just will fare badly.

~ The death of an unrepentant sinner is a very bad thing, but those who hate the just will fare much worse. The word ‘pessima’ in this context does not mean morally bad, as if there were sin in dying itself, but it refers to something that is harmful, for there is great harm to oneself and to the world when someone dies without repenting.

{33:23} Redimet Dominus animas servorum suorum: et non delinquent omnes qui sperant in eo.
{33:23} The Lord will redeem the souls of his servants, and none of those who hope in him will fare badly.

[Psalmus 34]
[Psalm 34] (35)

{34:1} Ipsi David. Iudica Domine nocentes me, expugna impugnantes me.
{34:1} Of David himself. O Lord, judge those who harm me; assail those who attack me.

~ The expression ‘ipsi David’ indicates that this is David’s point of view. Or, ‘expunge those who impugn me.’

{34:2} Apprehende arma et scutum: et exurge in adiutorium mihi.
{34:2} Take hold of weapons and a shield, and rise up in assistance to me.

{34:3} Effunde frameam, et conclude adversus eos, qui persequuntur me: dic animæ meæ: Salus tua ego sum.
{34:3} Bring forth the spear, and close in on those who persecute me. Say to my soul, “I am your salvation.”

{34:4} Confundantur et revereantur, quærentes animam meam. Avertantur retrorsum, et confundantur cogitantes mihi mala.
{34:4} Let them be confounded and in awe, who pursue my soul. Let them be turned back and be confounded, who think up evil against me.

{34:5} Fiant tamquam pulvis ante faciem venti: et angelus Domini coarctans eos.
{34:5} May they become like dust before the face of the wind, and let the Angel of the Lord hem them in.

{34:6} Fiat via illorum tenebræ et lubricum: et angelus Domini persequens eos.
{34:6} May their way become dark and slippery, and may the Angel of the Lord pursue them.

{34:7} Quoniam gratis absconderunt mihi interitum laquei sui: supervacue exprobraverunt animam meam.
{34:7} For, without cause, they have concealed their snare for me unto destruction. Over nothing, they have rebuked my soul.

{34:8} Veniat illi laqueus, quem ignorat: et captio, quam abscondit, apprehendat eum: et in laqueum cadat in ipsum.
{34:8} Let the snare, of which he is ignorant, come upon him, and let the deception, which he has hidden, take hold of him: and may he fall into that very snare.

{34:9} Anima autem mea exultabit in Domino: et delectabitur super salutari suo.
{34:9} But my soul will exult in the Lord and delight over his salvation.

{34:10} Omnia ossa mea dicent: Domine, quis similis tibi? Eripiens inopem de manu fortiorum eius: egenum et pauperem a diripientibus eum.
{34:10} All my bones will say, “Lord, who is like you?” He rescues the needy from the hand of the stronger one, the indigent and the poor from those who plunder him.

{34:11} Surgentes testes iniqui, quæ ignorabam interrogabant me.
{34:11} Unfair witnesses have risen up, interrogating me about things of which I am ignorant.

~ Notice that in translation, the participle ‘surgentes’ becomes the main verb and the verb ‘interrogabant’ becomes a participle. Otherwise the sentence would be awkward in English and no more meaningful.

{34:12} Retribuebant mihi mala pro bonis: sterilitatem animæ meæ.
{34:12} They repaid me evil for good, to the deprivation of my soul.

{34:13} Ego autem cum mihi molesti essent, induebar cilicio. Humiliabam in ieiunio animam meam: et oratio mea in sinu meo convertetur.
{34:13} But as for me, when they were harassing me, I was clothed with haircloth. I humbled my soul with fasting, and my prayer will become my sinews.

{34:14} Quasi proximum, et quasi fratrem nostrum, sic complacebam: quasi lugens et contristatus sic humiliabar.
{34:14} Like a neighbor, and like our brother, so did I please; like one mourning and contrite, so was I humbled.

{34:15} Et adversum me lætati sunt, et convenerunt: congregata sunt super me flagella, et ignoravi.
{34:15} And they have been joyful against me, and they joined together. Scourges have been gathered over me, and I was ignorant of it.

{34:16} Dissipati sunt, nec compuncti, tentaverunt me, subsannaverunt me subsannatione: frenduerunt super me dentibus suis.
{34:16} They have been scattered, yet they were unremorseful. They have tested me. They scoffed at me with scorn. They gnashed their teeth over me.

{34:17} Domine quando respicies? restitue animam meam a malignitate eorum, a leonibus unicam meam.
{34:17} Lord, when will you look down upon me? Restore my soul from before their malice, my only one from before the lions.

{34:18} Confitebor tibi in Ecclesia magna, in populo gravi laudabo te.
{34:18} I will confess to you in a great Church. I will praise you among a weighty people.

{34:19} Non supergaudeant mihi qui adversantur mihi inique: qui oderunt me gratis et annuunt oculis.
{34:19} May those who are my unjust adversaries not be glad over me: those who have hated me without cause, and who nod agreement with their eyes.

~ Literally, this last phrase means ‘to nod (in agreement) with the eyes.’

{34:20} Quoniam mihi quidem pacifice loquebantur: et in iracundia terræ loquentes, dolos cogitabant.
{34:20} For indeed, they spoke peacefully to me; and speaking with passion to the earth, they intended deceit.

{34:21} Et dilataverunt super me os suum: dixerunt: Euge, euge, viderunt oculi nostri.
{34:21} And they opened their mouth wide over me. They said, “Well, well, our eyes have seen.”

{34:22} Vidisti Domine, ne sileas: Domine ne discedas a me.
{34:22} You have seen, O Lord, do not be silent. Lord, do not depart from me.

{34:23} Exurge et intende iudicio meo: Deus meus, et Dominus meus in causam meam.
{34:23} Rise up and be attentive to my judgment, to my cause, my God and my Lord.

{34:24} Iudica me secundum iustitiam tuam Domine Deus meus, et non supergaudeant mihi.
{34:24} Judge me according to your justice, O Lord, my God, and do not let them be glad over me.

{34:25} Non dicant in cordibus suis: Euge, euge, animæ nostræ: nec dicant: Devoravimus eum.
{34:25} Do not let them say in their hearts, “Well, well, to our soul.” Neither let them say, “We have devoured him.”

{34:26} Erubescant et revereantur simul, qui gratulantur malis meis. Induantur confusione et reverentia qui magna loquuntur super me.
{34:26} Let them blush and be in awe together, those who congratulate at my misfortunes. Let them be clothed with confusion and awe, who speak great things against me.

{34:27} Exultent et lætentur qui volunt iustitiam meam: et dicant semper: Magnificetur Dominus, qui volunt pacem servi eius.
{34:27} Let them exult and rejoice, who wish my justice, and let them ever say, “The Lord be magnified,” who will the peace of his servant.

{34:28} Et lingua mea meditabitur iustitiam tuam, tota die laudem tuam.
{34:28} And so my tongue will express your justice: your praise all day long.

[Psalmus 35]
[Psalm 35] (36)

{35:1} In finem, servo Domini ipsi David.
{35:1} Unto the end. To the servant of the Lord, David himself.

{35:2} Dixit iniustus ut delinquat in semetipso: non est timor Dei ante oculos eius.
{35:2} The unjust one has said within himself that he would commit offenses. There is no fear of God before his eyes.

{35:3} Quoniam dolose egit in conspectu eius: ut inveniatur iniquitas eius ad odium.
{35:3} For he has acted deceitfully in his sight, such that his iniquity will be found to be hatred.

{35:4} Verba oris eius iniquitas, et dolus: noluit intelligere ut bene ageret.
{35:4} The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit. He is unwilling to understand, so that he may act well.

{35:5} Iniquitatem meditatus est in cubili suo: astitit omni viæ non bonæ, malitiam autem non odivit.
{35:5} He has been considering iniquity on his bed. He has set himself on every way that is not good; moreover, he has not hated evil.

{35:6} Domine in cælo misericordia tua: et veritas tua usque ad nubes.
{35:6} Lord, your mercy is in heaven, and your truth is even to the clouds.

{35:7} Iustitia tua sicut montes Dei: iudicia tua abyssus multa. Homines, et iumenta salvabis Domine:
{35:7} Your justice is like the mountains of God. Your judgments are a great abyss. Men and beasts, you will save, O Lord.

{35:8} quemadmodum multiplicasti misericordiam tuam Deus. Filii autem hominum, in tegmine alarum tuarum sperabunt.
{35:8} How you have multiplied your mercy, O God! And so the sons of men will hope under the cover of your wings.

{35:9} Inebriabuntur ab ubertate domus tuæ: et torrente voluptatis tuæ potabis eos.
{35:9} They will be inebriated with the fruitfulness of your house, and you will give them to drink from the torrent of your enjoyment.

{35:10} Quoniam apud te est fons vitæ: et in lumine tuo videbimus lumen.
{35:10} For with you is the fountain of life; and within your light, we will see the light.

{35:11} Prætende misericordiam tuam scientibus te, et iustitiam tuam his, qui recto sunt corde.
{35:11} Extend your mercy before those who know you, and your justice to these, who are upright in heart.

{35:12} Non veniat mihi pes superbiæ: et manus peccatoris non moveat me.
{35:12} May arrogant feet not approach me, and may the hand of the sinner not disturb me.

~ Notice that the word ‘pes’ is singular, but the translation makes it plural. The reason is that English uses this same type of expression (referring to feet figuratively), but with the plural, not the singular.

{35:13} Ibi ceciderunt qui operantur iniquitatem: expulsi sunt, nec potuerunt stare.
{35:13} In that place, those who work iniquity have fallen. They have been expelled; they were not able to stand.

[Psalmus 36]
[Psalm 36] (37)

{36:1} Psalmus ipsi David. Noli æmulari in malignantibus: neque zelaveris facientes iniquitatem.
{36:1} A Psalm of David himself. Do not choose to imitate the malicious; neither should you envy those who work iniquity.

{36:2} Quoniam tamquam fœnum velociter arescent: et quemadmodum olera herbarum cito decident.
{36:2} For they will quickly wither away like dry grass, and in like manner to kitchen herbs, they will soon droop.

~ The word ‘foenum’ is usually translated as ‘hay,’ but it can refer to any type of crop or grass that is cut and dried, or to dry grass in the field. The word ‘olera’ refers to vegetables or herbs for use in a kitchen; so, as a phrase, ‘olera herbarum’ refers to herb that are for use in cooking: ‘kitchen herbs.’ These last dry out and droop easily, because they are delicate plants (often grown indoors).

{36:3} Spera in Domino, et fac bonitatem: et inhabita terram, et pasceris in divitiis eius.
{36:3} Hope in the Lord and do good, and dwell in the land, and so you shall be pastured with its riches.

{36:4} Delectare in Domino: et dabit tibi petitiones cordis tui.
{36:4} Delight in the Lord, and he will grant to you the petitions of your heart.

{36:5} Revela Domino viam tuam, et spera in eo: et ipse faciet.
{36:5} Reveal your way to the Lord, and hope in him, and he will accomplish it.

{36:6} Et educet quasi lumen iustitiam tuam: et iudicium tuum tamquam meridiem:
{36:6} And he will bring forth your justice like the light, and your judgment like the midday.

{36:7} subditus esto Domino, et ora eum. Noli æmulari in eo, qui prosperatur in via sua: in homine faciente iniustitias.
{36:7} Be subject to the Lord and pray to him. Do not choose to compete with him who prospers in his way, with the man who does injustice.

{36:8} Desine ab ira, et derelinque furorem: noli æmulari ut maligneris.
{36:8} Cease from wrath and leave behind rage. Do not choose to imitate the malicious.

{36:9} Quoniam qui malignantur, exterminabuntur: sustinentes autem Dominum, ipsi hereditabunt terram.
{36:9} For those who are malicious will be exterminated. But those who remain with the Lord, these will inherit the land.

{36:10} Et adhuc pusillum, et non erit peccator: et quæres locum eius, et non invenies.
{36:10} Yet still a little while, and the sinner will not be. And you will search his place and find nothing.

{36:11} Mansueti autem hereditabunt terram, et delectabuntur in multitudine pacis.
{36:11} But the meek shall inherit the earth, and they will delight in the multitude of peace.

{36:12} Observabit peccator iustum: et stridebit super eum dentibus suis.
{36:12} The sinner will observe the just, and he will gnash his teeth over him.

{36:13} Dominus autem irridebit eum: quoniam prospicit quod veniet dies eius.
{36:13} But the Lord will laugh at him: for he knows in advance that his day will come.

{36:14} Gladium evaginaverunt peccatores: intenderunt arcum suum. Ut deiiciant pauperem et inopem: ut trucident rectos corde.
{36:14} The sinners have drawn the sword, they have bent their bow, so as to cast down the poor and the needy, so as to massacre the upright of heart.

{36:15} Gladius eorum intret in corda ipsorum: et arcus eorum confringatur.
{36:15} Let their sword enter into their own hearts, and let their bow be broken.

{36:16} Melius est modicum iusto, super divitias peccatorum multas.
{36:16} A little is better to the just than the many riches of sinners.

{36:17} Quoniam brachia peccatorum conterentur: confirmat autem iustos Dominus.
{36:17} For the arms of sinners will be crushed, but the Lord confirms the just.

{36:18} Novit Dominus dies immaculatorum: et hereditas eorum in æternum erit.
{36:18} The Lord knows the days of the immaculate, and their inheritance will be in eternity.

{36:19} Non confundentur in tempore malo, et in diebus famis saturabuntur:
{36:19} They will not be confounded in an evil time; and in days of famine, they will be satisfied:

{36:20} quia peccatores peribunt. Inimici vero Domini mox ut honorificati fuerint et exaltati: deficientes, quemadmodum fumus deficient.
{36:20} for sinners will perish. Truly, the adversaries of the Lord, soon after they have been honored and exalted, will fade away, in the same way that smoke fades away.

{36:21} Mutuabitur peccator, et non solvet: iustus autem miseretur et tribuet.
{36:21} The sinner will lend and not release, but the just one shows compassion and donates.

~ Or, ‘The sinner borrows and does not repay.’ The words ‘Mutuabitur’ and ‘solvet’ seem to indicate lending and releasing from debit. But based on the meaning of the remainder of the sentence, other translators have translated the text as ‘borrow’ and ‘repay.’

{36:22} Quia benedicentes ei hereditabunt terram: maledicentes autem ei disperibunt.
{36:22} For those who bless him will inherit the earth, but those who curse him will perish.

{36:23} Apud Dominum gressus hominis dirigentur: et viam eius volet.
{36:23} The steps of a man will be directed by the Lord, and he will choose his way.

{36:24} Cum ceciderit, non collidetur: quia Dominus supponit manum suam.
{36:24} When he falls, he will not be harmed, because the Lord places his hand under him.

{36:25} Iunior fui, etenim senui: et non vidi iustum derelictum, nec semen eius quærens panem.
{36:25} I have been young, and now I am old; and I have not seen the just forsaken, nor his offspring seeking bread.

{36:26} Tota die miseretur et commodat: et semen illius in benedictione erit.
{36:26} He shows compassion and lends, all day long, and his offspring will be in blessing.

~ The word ‘miseretur’ refers to showing mercy, or compassion, or pity for someone.

{36:27} Declina a malo, et fac bonum: et inhabita in sæculum sæculi.
{36:27} Turn away from evil and do good, and dwell forever and ever.

{36:28} Quia Dominus amat iudicium, et non derelinquet sanctos suos: in æternum conservabuntur. Iniusti punientur: et semen impiorum peribit.
{36:28} For the Lord loves judgment, and he will not abandon his saints. They will be kept safe in eternity. The unjust will be punished, and the offspring of the impious will perish.

~ The phrase ‘offspring of,’ or ‘sons of,’ is a figure of speech often used in the Old Testament. It does not literally mean that a child will perish if his parents sin. It means that if you sin continually, you are acting as if you were the offspring of sin. Thus, ‘semen impiorum peribit’ could be translated as ‘the offspring of impiety will perish.’ In another example, the ‘sons of adultery’ are not the biological sons of adulterers, but they are those who act as if they had adultery itself as a parent. This figure of speech is predicated on the idea that children learn most from their parents. If you commit adultery, it is as if your parents were adulterers, or as if your parent was adultery itself.

{36:29} Iusti autem hereditabunt terram: et inhabitabunt in sæculum sæculi super eam.
{36:29} But the just will inherit the earth, and they will dwell upon it forever and ever.

{36:30} Os iusti meditabitur sapientiam, et lingua eius loquetur iudicium.
{36:30} The mouth of the just one will express wisdom, and his tongue will speak judgment.

{36:31} Lex Dei eius in corde ipsius: et non supplantabuntur gressus eius.
{36:31} The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps shall not be supplanted.

{36:32} Considerat peccator iustum: et quærit mortificare eum.
{36:32} The sinner considers the just one and seeks to put him to death.

{36:33} Dominus autem non derelinquet eum in manibus eius: nec damnabit eum cum iudicabitur illi.
{36:33} But the Lord will not abandon him into his hands, nor condemn him, when he will be judged.

{36:34} Expecta Dominum, et custodi viam eius: et exaltabit te ut hereditate capias terram: cum perierint peccatores videbis.
{36:34} Wait for the Lord, and keep to his way. And he will exalt you, so as to inherit the land that you may seize. When the sinners will have passed away, then you shall see.

~ The word ‘capias’ is in the Clementine Vulgate, but it’s translation is not found in the Wycliffe, Douay, or Challoner versions. The word ‘capias’ refers to the land that the just ‘seize’ when the sinners pass away.

{36:35} Vidi impium superexaltatum, et elevatum sicut cedros Libani.
{36:35} I have seen the impious over-exalted, and lifted up like the cedars of Lebanon.

{36:36} Et transivi, et ecce non erat: et quæsivi eum, et non est inventus locus eius.
{36:36} And I passed by, and behold, he was not. And I sought him, and his place was not found.

{36:37} Custodi innocentiam, et vide æquitatem: quoniam sunt reliquiæ homini pacifico.
{36:37} Keep to innocence, and gaze upon fairness: because there are allotments for the peaceful man.

~ In this context, the word ‘reliquiae’ could be accurately translated as ‘bequests,’ or ‘bestowals,’ or ‘bequeathments,’ or ‘endowments,’ or ‘allotments.’

{36:38} Iniusti autem disperibunt simul: reliquiæ impiorum interibunt.
{36:38} But the unjust will be destroyed together: the allotments of the impious will pass away.

~ The word ‘interibunt’ literally means ‘they will go between.’ This was an expression used to refer to going between this life and the next, i.e. passing away or crossing over. People still sometimes say that someone has ‘passed between the veil of this life and the next.’

{36:39} Salus autem iustorum a Domino: et protector eorum in tempore tribulationis.
{36:39} But the salvation of the just is from the Lord, and he is their protector in time of tribulation.

{36:40} Et adiuvabit eos Dominus, et liberabit eos: et eruet eos a peccatoribus, et salvabit eos: quia speraverunt in eo.
{36:40} And the Lord will help them and free them. And he will rescue them from sinners and save them, because they have hoped in him.

[Psalmus 37]
[Psalm 37] (38)

{37:1} Psalmus David, in rememorationem de Sabbato.
{37:1} A Psalm of David, in commemoration of the Sabbath.

{37:2} Domine ne in furore tuo arguas me, neque in ira tua corripias me.
{37:2} O Lord, do not rebuke me in your fury, nor chastise me in your wrath.

{37:3} Quoniam sagittæ tuæ infixæ sunt mihi: et confirmasti super me manum tuam.
{37:3} For your arrows have been driven into me, and your hand has been confirmed over me.

{37:4} Non est sanitas in carne mea a facie iræ tuæ: non est pax ossibus meis a facie peccatorum meorum.
{37:4} There is no health in my flesh before the face of your wrath. There is no peace for my bones before the face of my sins.

{37:5} Quoniam iniquitates meæ supergressæ sunt caput meum: et sicut onus grave gravatæ sunt super me.
{37:5} For my iniquities have walked over my head, and they have been like a heavy burden weighing upon me.

{37:6} Putruerunt et corruptæ sunt cicatrices meæ, a facie insipientiæ meæ.
{37:6} My sores have putrefied and been corrupted before the face of my foolishness.

{37:7} Miser factus sum, et curvatus sum usque in finem: tota die contristatus ingrediebar.
{37:7} I have become miserable, and I have been bent down, even to the end. I have walked with contrition all day long.

{37:8} Quoniam lumbi mei impleti sunt illusionibus: et non est sanitas in carne mea.
{37:8} For my loins have been filled with illusions, and there is no health in my flesh.

{37:9} Afflictus sum, et humiliatus sum nimis: rugiebam a gemitu cordis mei.
{37:9} I have been afflicted and greatly humbled. I bellowed from the groaning of my heart.

{37:10} Domine, ante te omne desiderium meum: et gemitus meus a te non est absconditus.
{37:10} O Lord, all my desire is before you, and my groaning before you has not been hidden.

{37:11} Cor meum conturbatum est: dereliquit me virtus mea, et lumen oculorum meorum: et ipsum non est mecum.
{37:11} My heart has been disturbed. My strength has abandoned me, and the light of my eyes has abandoned me, and it is not with me.

~ The verb for ‘lumen oculorum meorum’ is the same as the verb for the previous phrase, ‘dereliquit me virtus mea.’ This grammatical arrangement is common in Biblical Latin. The word ‘ipsum’ is nominative singular neuter, just as lumen is nominative singular neuter; therefore, ipsum refers to ‘lumen.’

{37:12} Amici mei et proximi mei adversum me appropinquaverunt, et steterunt. Et qui iuxta me erant, de longe steterunt: et vim faciebant qui quærebant animam meam.
{37:12} My friends and my neighbors have drawn near and stood against me. And those who were next to me stood far apart. And those who sought my soul used violence.

{37:13} Et qui inquirebant mala mihi, locuti sunt vanitates: et dolos tota die meditabantur.
{37:13} And those who sought evil accusations against me were speaking emptiness. And they practiced deceitfulness all day long.

{37:14} Ego autem tamquam surdus non audiebam: et sicut mutus non aperiens os suum.
{37:14} But, like someone deaf, I did not hear. And I was like someone mute, not opening his mouth.

{37:15} Et factus sum sicut homo non audiens: et non habens in ore suo redargutiones.
{37:15} And I became like a man who does not hear, and who has no reproofs in his mouth.

{37:16} Quoniam in te Domine speravi: tu exaudies me Domine Deus meus.
{37:16} For in you, Lord, I have hoped. You will listen to me, O Lord my God.

{37:17} Quia dixi: Nequando supergaudeant mihi inimici mei: et dum commoventur pedes mei, super me magna locuti sunt.
{37:17} For I said, “Lest at any time, my enemies might rejoice over me,” and, “While my feet are being shaken, they have spoken great things against me.”

{37:18} Quoniam ego in flagella paratus sum: et dolor meus in conspectu meo semper.
{37:18} For I have been prepared for scourges, and my sorrow is ever before me.

{37:19} Quoniam iniquitatem meam annuntiabo: et cogitabo pro peccato meo.
{37:19} For I will announce my iniquity, and I will think about my sin.

{37:20} Inimici autem mei vivunt, et confirmati sunt super me: et multiplicati sunt qui oderunt me inique.
{37:20} But my enemies live, and they have been stronger than me. And those who have wrongfully hated me have been multiplied.

{37:21} Qui retribuunt mala pro bonis, detrahebant mihi: quoniam sequebar bonitatem.
{37:21} Those who render evil for good have dragged me down, because I followed goodness.

{37:22} Ne derelinquas me Domine Deus meus: ne discesseris a me.
{37:22} Do not forsake me, O Lord my God. Do not depart from me.

{37:23} Intende in adiutorium meum, Domine Deus salutis meæ.
{37:23} Be attentive to my help, O Lord, the God of my salvation.

[Psalmus 38]
[Psalm 38] (39)

{38:1} In finem, ipsi Idithun, Canticum David.
{38:1} Unto the end. For Jeduthun himself. A Canticle of David.

{38:2} Dixi: Custodiam vias meas: ut non delinquam in lingua mea. Posui ori meo custodiam, cum consisteret peccator adversum me.
{38:2} I said, “I will keep to my ways, so that I will not offend with my tongue.” I posted a guard at my mouth, when a sinner took up a position against me.

{38:3} Obmutui, et humiliatus sum, et silui a bonis: et dolor meus renovatus est.
{38:3} I was silenced and humbled, and I was quiet before good things, and my sorrow was renewed.

{38:4} Concaluit cor meum intra me: et in meditatione mea exardescet ignis.
{38:4} My heart grew hot within me, and, during my meditation, a fire would flare up.

{38:5} Locutus sum in lingua mea: Notum fac mihi Domine finem meum. Et numerum dierum meorum quis est: ut sciam quid desit mihi.
{38:5} I spoke with my tongue, “O Lord, make me know my end, and what the number of my days will be, so that I may know what is lacking to me.”

{38:6} Ecce mensurabiles posuisti dies meos: et substantia mea tamquam nihilum ante te. Verumtamen universa vanitas, omnis homo vivens.
{38:6} Behold, you have made my days measurable, and, before you, my substance is as nothing. Yet truly, all things are vanity: every living man.

{38:7} Verumtamen in imagine pertransit homo: sed et frustra conturbatur. Thesaurizat: et ignorat cui congregabit ea.
{38:7} So then, truly man passes by like an image; even so, he is disquieted in vain. He stores up, and he knows not for whom he will gather these things.

{38:8} Et nunc quæ est expectatio mea? nonne Dominus? et substantia mea apud te est.
{38:8} And now, what is it that awaits me? Is it not the Lord? And my substance is with you.

{38:9} Ab omnibus iniquitatibus meis erue me: opprobrium insipienti dedisti me.
{38:9} Rescue me from all my iniquities. You have handed me over as a reproach to the foolish.

{38:10} Obmutui, et non aperui os meum, quoniam tu fecisti:
{38:10} I was silenced, and I did not open my mouth, because it was you who acted.

{38:11} amove a me plagas tuas.
{38:11} Remove your scourges from me.

{38:12} A fortitudine manus tuæ ego defeci in increpationibus: propter iniquitatem corripuisti hominem. Et tabescere fecisti sicut araneam animam eius: verumtamen vane conturbatur omnis homo.
{38:12} I fall short at corrections from the strength of your hand. For you have chastised man for iniquity. And you have made his soul shrink away like a spider. Nevertheless, it is in vain that any man be disquieted.

{38:13} Exaudi orationem meam Domine, et deprecationem meam: auribus percipe lacrimas meas. Ne sileas: quoniam advena ego sum apud te, et peregrinus, sicut omnes patres mei.
{38:13} O Lord, heed my prayer and my supplication. Pay attention to my tears. Do not be silent. For I am a newcomer with you, and a sojourner, just as all my fathers were.

{38:14} Remitte mihi, ut refrigerer priusquam abeam, et amplius non ero.
{38:14} Forgive me, so that I may be refreshed, before I will go forth and be no more.