12   for you saved me from destruction
   and rescued me in time of trouble.
For this reason I thank you and praise you,
   and I bless the name of the Lord.



Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the God of praises,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the guardian of Israel,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who formed all things,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the redeemer of Israel,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who gathers the dispersed of Israel,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who rebuilt his city and his sanctuary,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who makes a horn to sprout for the house of David,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who has chosen the sons of Zadok to be priests,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the shield of Abraham,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the rock of Isaac,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the mighty one of Jacob,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to him who has chosen Zion,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


Give thanks to the King of the kings of kings,
   for his mercy endures for ever;


He has raised up a horn for his people,
   praise for all his loyal ones.


For the children of Israel, the people close to him.
   Praise the Lord!




13 While I was still young, before I went on my travels,
   I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.
14 Before the temple I asked for her,
   and I will search for her until the end.

15 From the first blossom to the ripening grape
   my heart delighted in her;
my foot walked on the straight path;
   from my youth I followed her steps.

16 I inclined my ear a little and received her,
   and I found for myself much instruction.
17 I made progress in her;
   to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.

18 For I resolved to live according to wisdom,
   and I was zealous for the good,
   and I shall never be disappointed.
19 My soul grappled with wisdom,
   and in my conduct I was strict;


I spread out my hands to the heavens,
   and lamented my ignorance of her.
20 I directed my soul to her,
   and in purity I found her.


With her I gained understanding from the first;
   therefore I will never be forsaken.