033) The Third Part.

The Third Part.

14 My blood like water’s spilled, my joints are racked and out of frame; My heart dissolves within my breast, like wax before the flame;

15 My strength like potter’s earth is parched, my tongue cleaves to my jaws; And to the silent shades of death my fainting soul withdraws.

16 Like blood-hounds, to surround me, they in packed assemblies meet;

They pierced my inoffensive hands, they pierced my harmless feet.

17 My body’s racked, till all my bones distinctly may be told:

Yet such a spectacle of woe as pastime they behold.

18 As spoil, my garments they divide, lots for my vesture cast:

19 Therefore approach, O Lord, my strength, and to my succor haste.

20 From their sharp sword protect thou me, of all but life bereft! Nor let my darling in the pow’r of cruel dogs be left.

21 To save me from the lion’s jaws thy present succor send; As once, from goring unicorns thou didst my life defend.

22 Then to my brethren I’ll declare the triumphs of thy Name, In presence of assembled saints thy glory, thus proclaim:

23 "Ye worshippers of Jacob’s God, all you of Israel’s line, O praise the Lord, and to your praise sincere obedience join."

24 "He ne’er disdained on low distress to cast a gracious eye; Nor turned from poverty his face, but hears its humble cry."