For the director of music. To the tune of ‘Lilies’. Of the Sons of Korah. A maskil. A wedding song.
1My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer.[1]2You are the most excellent of men and your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you for ever.3Gird your sword on your side, you mighty one; clothe yourself with splendour and majesty.4In your majesty ride forth victoriously in the cause of truth, humility and justice; let your right hand achieve awesome deeds.5Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s enemies; let the nations fall beneath your feet.6Your throne, O God,[2] will last for ever and ever; a sceptre of justice will be the sceptre of your kingdom.7You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.8All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.9Daughters of kings are among your honoured women; at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir.10Listen, daughter, and pay careful attention: Forget your people and your father’s house.11Let the king be enthralled by your beauty; honour him, for he is your lord.12The city of Tyre will come with a gift,[3] people of wealth will seek your favour.13All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold.14In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her – those brought to be with her.15Led in with joy and gladness, they enter the palace of the king.16Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land.17I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.