Psalms 39:1-6

¹(39-1) For the Leader, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. (39-2) I said: 'I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue; I will keep a curb upon my mouth, while the wicked is before me.'

²(39-3) I was dumb with silence; I held my peace, had no comfort; and my pain was held in check.

³(39-4) My heart waxed hot within me; while I was musing, the fire kindled; then spoke I with my tongue:

⁴(39-5) 'LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; let me know how short-lived I am.

⁵(39-6) Behold, Thou hast made my days as hand-breadths; and mine age is as nothing before Thee; surely every man at his best estate is altogether vanity. Selah

⁶(39-7) Surely man walketh as a mere semblance; surely for vanity they are in turmoil; he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them.