1
A Contemplation of Asaph. O God, why have You cast us off forever? Why does Your anger smoke against the sheep of Your pasture?
2
Remember Your congregation, which You have purchased of old, The tribe of Your inheritance, which You have redeemed-- This Mount Zion where You have dwelt.
3
Lift up Your feet to the perpetual desolations. The enemy has damaged everything in the sanctuary.
4
Your enemies roar in the midst of Your meeting place; They set up their banners for signs.
5
They seem like men who lift up Axes among the thick trees.
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And now they break down its carved work, all at once, With axes and hammers.
7
They have set fire to Your sanctuary; They have defiled the dwelling place of Your name to the ground.
8
They said in their hearts, "Let us destroy them altogether." They have burned up all the meeting places of God in the land.
9
We do not see our signs; There is no longer any prophet; Nor is there any among us who knows how long.
10
O God, how long will the adversary reproach? Will the enemy blaspheme Your name forever?
11
Why do You withdraw Your hand, even Your right hand? Take it out of Your bosom and destroy them.
12
For God is my King from of old, Working salvation in the midst of the earth.
13
You divided the sea by Your strength; You broke the heads of the sea serpents in the waters.