Psalms
Summary
Psalm 53 is a variation of Psalm 14, describing the universal depravity of mankind and the folly of those who say in their heart, "There is no God." It depicts God looking down from heaven to see if any "did understand" or "did seek God," only to find that "every one of them is gone back." The psalm notes that the workers of iniquity "eat up my people as they eat bread." It concludes with a longing for the salvation of Israel to come out of Zion, bringing joy back to Jacob and gladness to Israel.
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity; there is no one who does good.
God looks down from heaven on the children of men to see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
Every one of them has turned away; they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, no, not one.
Do the workers of iniquity have no knowledge? They eat up my people as they eat bread; they have not called on God.
There they were in great fear, where no fear was; for God has scattered the bones of those who camped against you; you have put them to shame, because God has despised them.
Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion! When God brings back the captivity of his people, Jacob will rejoice and Israel will be glad.