Psalms 53

1 For the end, [a Psalm] of David upon Maeleth, of instruction. The fool has said in his heart, There is no God. They have corrupted [themselves], and become abominable in iniquities: there is none that does good.

For the choirmaster. According to Mahalath. A Maskil of David. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt; their ways are vile. There is no one who does good.

2 God looked down from heaven upon the sons of men, to see if there were any that understood, or sought after God.

God looks down from heaven upon the sons of men to see if any understand, if any seek God.

3 They have all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that does good, there is not even one.

All have turned away, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.

4 Will none of the workers of iniquity know, who devour my people as they would eat bread? they have not called upon God. There were they greatly afraid, where there was no fear:

Will the workers of iniquity never learn? They devour my people like bread; they refuse to call upon God.

5 or God has scattered the bones of the men-pleasers; they were ashamed, for God despised them.

There they are, overwhelmed with dread, where there was nothing to fear. For God has scattered the bones of those who besieged you. You put them to shame, for God has despised them.

6 Who will bring the salvation of Israel out of Sion? When the Lord turns the captivity of his people, Jacob shall exult, and Israel shall be glad.

Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion! When God restores His captive people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad!