1
I was so embarrassed and ashamed that I sighed and began to cry. Then, as I choked back my tears, I prayed:
2
"You are righteous, O Lord! You are merciful in all you do, faithful in all your ways. You are the judge of this world.
3
I beg you, treat me with kindness. Do not punish me for my sins, not even for sins of which I am unaware. My ancestors rebelled and disobeyed your commands, but do not punish me for their sins. You let our people be plundered, taken captive and killed. You made an example of our people, an object of contempt and disgrace in all the nations where you scattered us.
5
You have often judged my ancestors for their sins and punished me for mine. We were disloyal and rejected your commands, so our punishment has always been just.