1 They have greatly oppressed me from my youth- let Israel say-

2 they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me.

3 Plowmen have plowed my back and made their furrows long.

4 But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.

5 May all who hate Zion be turned back in shame.

6 May they be like grass on the roof, which withers before it can grow;

7 with it the reaper cannot fill his hands, nor the one who gathers fill his arms.

8 May those who pass by not say, "The blessing of the LORD be upon you; we bless you in the name of the LORD."