1. Have mercy on me, O God, in your kindness;
in your compassion blot out my offense.
O wash me more and more from my guilt
and cleanse me from my sin.
2. My offenses, truly I know them;
my sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned.
What is evil in your sight I have done.
3. Indeed you love truth in the heart;
then in the secret of my heart teach me wisdom.
O purify me, then I shall be clean.
O wash me, and I shall be purer than snow.
4. A pure heart create for me, O God,
put a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence,
nor deprive me of your Holy Spirit.
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Give me again the joy of your help.
With a spirit of fervor sustain me,
that I may teach transgressors your ways
and sinners may return to you.
5. O rescue me, God, my helper,
and my tongue shall ring out your goodness. O Lord,
open my lips and my mouth shall declare your praise.
6. For in sacrifice you take no delight,
burnt offering from me you would refuse;
my sacrifice, a contrite spirit.
A humbled, contrite heart you will not spurn.