⁴ No one calls for justice;^(A)
    no one pleads a case with integrity.
They rely^(B) on empty arguments, they utter lies;^(C)
    they conceive trouble and give birth to evil.^(D)

² The faithful have been swept from the land;^(A)
    not one^(B) upright person remains.
Everyone lies in wait^(C) to shed blood;^(D)
    they hunt each other^(E) with nets.^(F)
3 Both hands are skilled in doing evil;^(G)
    the ruler demands gifts,
the judge accepts bribes,^(H)
    the powerful dictate what they desire—
    they all conspire together.
⁴ The best of them is like a brier,^(I)
    the most upright worse than a thorn^(J) hedge.
The day God visits you has come,
    the day your watchmen sound the alarm.
    Now is the time of your confusion.^(K)
5 Do not trust a neighbor;
    put no confidence in a friend.^(L)
Even with the woman who lies in your embrace
    guard the words of your lips.

2 Woe to those who plan iniquity,
    to those who plot evil^(A) on their beds!^(B)
At morning’s light they carry it out
    because it is in their power to do it.