The Prayer before Sleep
March 28, 1931, 7 in the evening


"Oh Lord, amid the light of day
I've been overcome by sloth.
Permit me to lie down and sleep, oh Lord,
And, while I slumber, fill me oh Lord
with Thy might.
I desire great knowledge,
but no man and no book shall give me this.
Only Thou shalt enlighten me
by way of my verse.
Awake me strong- for the battle with meanings,
Quick- in directing the words,
and diligent- in Praise of thy Name
for centuries to come."

 

 

Translation: Roman Turovsky

 

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