Psalm 2

Ps.2

Tune: Mendelssohn "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" 7.7.7.7. D

adapted from the Book of Psalms 1871

1 Why do heathen nations rage? Why do peoples folly mind? 
2 Kings of earth in plots engage, Rulers are in league combined; 
   Then against Jehovah high, And against Messiah's sway, 
3 "Let us break their bands," they cry, "Let us cast their cords away." 
4 But the Lord will scorn them all; He will laugh Who sits on high.

5 Then His wrath will on them fall; Sore displeased He will reply: 
6 "Yet according to My will I have set My King to reign, 
   And on Zion's holy hill My Anointed I'll maintain." 

7 His decree I will make known: Unto Me the Lord did say, 
   "You are My beloved Son; I've begotten You this day. 

8 Ask of Me, and You I'll make Heir to earth and nations all; 
9 Them with iron You shall break, Dashing them in pieces small." 
10 Therefore, kings, be wise, give ear; Hearken, Judges of the earth; 
11 Serve the Lord with godly fear; Mingle trembling with your mirth. 
12 Kiss the Son, His wrath to turn, Lest you perish in the way, 
     For His anger soon will burn. Blest are all that on Him stay.