Psalm 2

1    Why are the nations in tumult,  

and why do the peoples devise a vain plot?

2    The kings of the earth rise up,

    and the rulers take counsel together,  

against the Lord and against his anointed:

3    ‘Let us break their bonds asunder  

and cast away their cords from us.’

4    He who dwells in heaven shall laugh them to scorn;  

the Lord shall have them in derision.

5    Then shall he speak to them in his wrath  

and terrify them in his fury:

6    ‘Yet have I set my king  

upon my holy hill of Zion.’

7    I will proclaim the decree of the Lord;  

he said to me: ‘You are my Son; this day have I begotten you.

8    ‘Ask of me and I will give you the nations for your inheritance  

and the ends of the earth for your possession.

9    ‘You shall break them with a rod of iron  

and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.’

10  Now therefore be wise, O kings;  

be prudent, you judges of the earth.

11  Serve the Lord with fear, and with trembling kiss his feet,  

lest he be angry and you perish from the way,

    for his wrath is quickly kindled.

12  Happy are all they  

who take refuge in him.

 

Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, material from which is included here,
is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2000 and published by Church House Publishing.

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