Agnus Dei

My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken me?

All who see me mock me.
They curl their lips, they wag their heads:
“He trusted in the Lord, let Him save him;
let Him rescue him if this is His friend.”

Many dogs have surrounded me,
a band of the wicked has beset me.
They pierced my hands and my feet.
I can count every one of my bones.

They divide my clothing among them.
They cast lots for my robe.
O Lord, do not leave me alone.
O You my strength, make haste to help me.

I will tell of Your name to my people
and praise You where they are assembled:
“You who fear the Lord, give Him praise;
all children of Jacob, give Him glory.
Revere Him, children of Israel.”


The Psalmist David, circa 1,000 BC