1O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance;they have defiled your holy temple,they have reduced Jerusalem to rubble.
2They have left the dead bodies of your servantsas food for the birds of the sky,the flesh of your own people for the animals of the wild.
3They have poured out blood like waterall around Jerusalem,and there is no one to bury the dead.
4We are objects of contempt to our neighbors,of scorn and derision to those around us.
5How long, Lord? Will you be angry forever?How long will your jealousy burn like fire?
6Pour out your wrath on the nationsthat do not acknowledge you,on the kingdomsthat do not call on your name;
7for they have devoured Jacoband devastated his homeland.
8Do not hold against us the sins of past generations;may your mercy come quickly to meet us,for we are in desperate need.
9Help us, God our Savior,for the glory of your name;deliver us and forgive our sinsfor your name’s sake.
10Why should the nations say,“Where is their God?”Before our eyes, make known among the nationsthat you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants.
11May the groans of the prisoners come before you;with your strong arm preserve those condemned to die.
12Pay back into the laps of our neighbors seven timesthe contempt they have hurled at you, Lord.
13Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture,will praise you forever;from generation to generationwe will proclaim your praise.