The Irish Presbyterian Hymnbook ‎#P2

P2. Why rage the heathen? and vain things

1 Why rage the heathen? and vain things
why do the people mind?
2 Kings of the earth do set themselves,
and princes are combined,
to plot against the Lord, and his
anointed, saying thus,
3 let us asunder break their bands,
and cast their cords from us.

4 He that in heaven sits shall laugh;
the Lord shall scorn them all.
5 Then shall he speak to them in wrath,
in rage he vex them shall.
6 Yet, I my King appointed have
upon my holy hill;
on Zion mount his throne is set,
established by my will.

7 The sure decree I will declare:
the Lord hath said to me,
thou art mine only Son; this day
I have begotten thee.
8 Ask of me, and for heritage
the heathen I’ll make thine;
and for possession I to thee
will give earth’s utmost line.
9 Thou with a rod of iron shalt
beat down and break them all;
them, as a potter’s vessel, thou
shalt dash in pieces small.
10 Now therefore, kings, be wise; be taught
ye judges of the earth:
11 serve ye the Lord in holy fear;
join trembling with your mirth.

12 Kiss ye the Son, lest in his ire
ye perish from the way,
for suddenly his wrath may burn:
blest all that on him stay.

Text Information

• First Line: Why rage the heathen? and vain things
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2004
• Scripture:
  Psalm 2

Tune Information

• Name: WESTMINSTER
• Composer: James Turle, 1802-1882
• Meter: CM
• Key: C Major