1 A song of ascents. They have greatly oppressed me from my youth— let Israel say—
2they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me.
3Ploughmen have ploughed my back and made their furrows long.
4But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.
5May all who hate Zion be turned back in shame.
6May they be like grass on the roof, which withers before it can grow;
7with it the reaper cannot fill his hands, nor the one who gathers fill his arms.
8May those who pass by not say, "The blessing of the LORD be upon you; we bless you in the name of the LORD."