Psalm 130: Out of the Depths
The De Profundis is Psalm 130 in modern numbering and Psalm 129 in the Vulgate. Its Latin title comes from the opening words, “Out of the depths.” This biblical prayer belongs to the Psalter and is counted among the seven Penitential Psalms traditionally associated with King David. Catholics have long prayed it in times of sorrow, repentance, and urgent need for God’s mercy. It is also especially offered for the faithful departed, often at funerals, during visits to cemeteries, and in November. The closing versicles for eternal rest express the Church’s charity toward the dead, a practice commended in CCC 1032.
In Latin
De profundis clamavi ad te, Domine: Domine, exaudi vocem meam. Fiant aures tuae intendentes in vocem deprecationis meae. Si iniquitates observaveris, Domine: Domine, quis sustinebit? Quia apud te propitiatio est: et propter legem tuam sustinui te, Domine. Sustinuit anima mea in verbo ejus: speravit anima mea in Domino. A custodia matutina usque ad noctem: speret Israel in Domino. Quia apud Dominum misericordia: et copiosa apud eum redemptio. Et ipse redimet Israel ex omnibus iniquitatibus ejus. V. Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine. R. Et lux perpetua luceat eis. V. Requiescant in pace. R. Amen.
When to pray it: Pray it in repentance, in times of sorrow, or for the repose of the faithful departed.