Psalm 19:1-6
Words: Joseph Addison, 1712
Note: This setting is not quite as literal as other versions, but we think
that this version of these verses may do the best job of any of capturing
the essence of the message of the original Psalm.
Try this Psalm with "Creation" (from the
Oratorio by Hayden)
Hayden's Baroque ornamentation can be a bit difficult if you're not
accustomed to the style, but stick with it--it does fit the words perfectly.
1 The spacious firmament on high,
With all the blue ethereal sky,
And spangled heavens, a shining frame,
Their great Original proclaim.
2 Th'unwearied sun, from day to day,
Does his Creator's power display;
And publishes to every land
The work of an almighty hand.
3 Soon as the evening shades prevail,
The moon takes up the wondrous tale,
And nightly to the listening earth
Repeats the story of her birth:
4 Whilst all the stars that round her burn,
And all the planets in their turn,
Confirm the tidings as they roll,
And spread the truth from pole to pole.
5 What though in solemn silence all
Move round this dark terrestrial ball;
What though no real voice or sound
Amidst their radiant orbs be found;
6 In reason's ear they all rejoice,
And utter forth a glorious voice,
For ever singing as they shine,
"The hand that made us is divine."
