Psalms of Solomon 1

Pseudonymously attributed to Solomon; actual author(s) unknown, generally thought to be Pharisaic Jewish writers, commonly dated to the mid-to-late 1st century BC, apparently responding to the Roman general Pompey's conquest of Jerusalem in 63 BC and his death in 48 BC. A collection of 18 psalms of lament and hope, expressing longing for a righteous, Davidic Messiah to overthrow corrupt rulers.

1I cried unto the Lord when I was in distress, Unto God when sinners assailed.

2Suddenly the alarm of war was heard before me; (I said), He will hearken to me, for I am full of righteousness.

3I thought in my heart that I was full of righteousness, Because I was well off and had become rich in children.

4Their wealth spread to the whole earth, And their glory unto the end of the earth.

5They were exalted unto the stars; They said they would never fall.

6But they became insolent in their prosperity, And they were without understanding,

7Their sins were in secret, And even I had no knowledge (of them).

8Their transgressions (went) beyond those of the heathen before them; They utterly polluted the holy things of the Lord.