A Song for the King
For the director of music. To the tune of "Lilies." A wisdom psalm of the sons of Korah. A love song.
A court poet's wedding song for the king: sword strapped on, robes scented with myrrh and aloes, ivory palaces, a bride told to leave her father's house. The middle addresses the throne itself as everlasting, anointed by our Father with the oil of gladness.
45 1My heart overflows with a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skilled scribe. 2You are the most handsome of all men; grace is poured upon your lips; therefore our Father has blessed you forever. 3Strap your sword on your thigh, mighty warrior, in your splendor and majesty. 4In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and humility and righteousness; let your right hand teach you awesome deeds. 5Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; the peoples fall beneath you. 6Your throne, God, is forever and ever; the scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness. a a v6 Hebrews 1:8 applies this verse to Jesus — our Father addresses the Son as God, whose throne endures forever. 7You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore our Father, your Father, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions. b b v7 Hebrews 1:9 — our Father anoints the Son with joy above all others. 8All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of strings gladdens you.
9Daughters of kings are among your honored women; at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir. c c v9 Ophir was an ancient region renowned for producing the world's finest gold. 10Listen, daughter; consider and pay attention: forget your people and your father's house, 11and the king will desire your beauty. Since he is your lord, bow to him. 12The daughter of Tyre comes with a gift; the rich among the people will seek your favor. 13The king's daughter is all glorious within; her gown is interwoven with gold. 14In embroidered garments she is led to the king; the young women, her companions, are brought to you behind her.
15With joy and gladness they are led along; they enter the palace of the king. 16In place of your fathers will be your sons; you will make them princes in all the earth. 17I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore the peoples will praise you forever and ever.
