Psalms [Praises] 53

For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Mahalath.” A maskil ·instructional wisdom psalm· by David [Beloved].

Context: A contemplation similar to Proverbs 1:7. (Prov 1:7)

1The fool has said in his heart, “There is no Elohim ·Deity, Judge·.”

They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity.

There is no one who does good.

2God looks down from heaven on the children of men,

to see if there are any who understood,

who seek after God.

3Every one of them has gone back.

They have become filthy together.

There is no one who does good, no, not one. 1

4Have the workers of vain striving of iniquity no knowledge,

who eat up my people as they eat bread,

and don’t call on God?

5There they were in great fear, where no fear was,

for God has scattered the bones of him who encamps against you.

You have put them to shame,

because God has rejected them.

6Oh that the yishu'ah ·salvation· of Israel [God prevails] would come out of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]!

When God brings back his people from captivity,

then Jacob [Supplanter] shall rejoice,

and Israel [God prevails] shall be glad.