Psalms
Summary
Psalm 45 is a magnificent royal wedding song, likely composed for an Israelite King's marriage to a foreign princess. It begins with the psalmist's heart "overflowing with a good word" as he praises the King as "fairer than the children of men." The King is described as a warrior-judge anointed with "the oil of gladness." The psalm then turns to the bride, the King's daughter, advising her to "forget your own people" and celebrate her new life. It concludes with an eternal promise: that the King's name will be remembered through all generations and that nations will praise Him for ever.
My heart overflows with a good word; I speak of the things which I have made touching the king; my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.
You are the most excellent of men and your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you for ever.
Gird your sword on your side, you mighty one; clothe yourself with splendour and majesty.
In your majesty ride forth victoriously in the cause of truth, humility and justice; let your right hand display awesome deeds.
Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s enemies; let the nations fall beneath your feet.
Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a sceptre of justice will be the sceptre of your kingdom.
You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of joy above your companions.
All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.
Daughters of kings are among your honourable women; at your right hand stands the royal bride in gold of Ophir.
Listen, daughter, and consider; incline your ear: Forget your people and your father’s house.
Let the king be enthralled by your beauty; honour him, for he is your lord.
The city of Tyre will come with a gift, people of wealth will seek your favour.
All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold.
In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her and are brought to you.
With joy and gladness they are led; they enter the palace of the king.
Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land.
I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.