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.
6
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.