Psalms 19

Yahweh’s Creation and Law

For the music director. A psalm of David.*The Hebrew Bible counts the superscription as the first verse of the psalm; the English verse number is reduced by one

1 The heavens are telling the glory of God,

and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.

2 Every day*Literally "day to day" they pour forth speech,

and every night*Literally "night to night" they tell knowledge.

3 There is no speech and there are no words;

their sound is inaudible.

4 Yet in all the world their line*LXX "line" goes out,

and their words to the end of the world.

In them*That is, the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,

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 one*Hebrew "the" end of the heavens

and its circuit to the other end*Hebrew "ends" of them;

and nothing is hidden from its heat.

7 The law of Yahweh is perfect, reviving life.*Or "soul"

The testimony of Yahweh is firm, making wise the simple.

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 warned*Or "illumined" by them;

in keeping them is great reward.

12 Who can perceive his errors?

Acquit me from hidden faults.

13 Also, keep back your servant from arrogant sins;*Usage elsewhere might suggest "arrogant people"

let them not rule over me.

Then I shall be blameless,

and I shall be innocent of great transgression.

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.