16
But because you graciously bestowed your glory upon your people Israel, you sanctified this place.
17
Do not punish us for the defilement committed by these men, or call us to account for this profanation, lest the transgressors boast in their wrath or exult in the arrogance of their tongue, saying,
18
`We have trampled down the house of the sanctuary as offensive houses are trampled down.'
19
Wipe away our sins and disperse our errors, and reveal your mercy at this hour.
20
Speedily let your mercies overtake us, and put praises in the mouth of those who are downcast and broken in spirit, and give us peace."
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.