Yahweh’s Creation and Law

¹ For the music director. A psalm of David.¹ The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.

1. The Hebrew Bible counts the superscription as the first verse of the psalm; the English verse number is reduced by one

² ⌞Every day⌟¹ they pour forth speech, and ⌞every night⌟² they tell knowledge.

1. Literally “day to day”
2. Literally “night to night”

³ There is no speech and there are no words; their sound is inaudible.

⁴ Yet in all the world their line¹ goes out, and their words to the end of the world. In them² he has pitched a tent for the sun,

1. LXX “line”
2. That is, the heavens

⁵ and it is like a bridegroom who comes out of his bridal chamber. It is glad like a strong man to run its course.

⁶ Its rising is from one¹ end of the heavens and its circuit to the other end² of them; and nothing is hidden from its heat.

1. Hebrew “the”
2. Hebrew “ends”

⁷ The law of Yahweh is perfect, reviving life.¹ The testimony of Yahweh is firm, making wise the simple.

1. Or “soul”

⁸ The precepts of Yahweh are right, making the heart rejoice. The command of Yahweh is pure, enlightening the eyes.

⁹ The fear of Yahweh is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of Yahweh are true; they are righteous altogether,

¹⁰ more desirable than gold, even much fine gold; and sweeter than honey, even honey in the comb.

¹¹ Moreover, your servant is warned¹ by them; in keeping them is great reward.

1. Or “illumined”

¹² Who can perceive his errors? Acquit me from hidden faults.

¹³ Also, keep back your servant from arrogant sins;¹ let them not rule over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression.

1. Usage elsewhere might suggest “arrogant people”

¹⁴ Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your presence, O Yahweh, my rock and my redeemer.