1For the leader. A psalm of David.
2The heavens declare the glory of God;
the firmament proclaims the works of his hands.
3Day unto day pours forth speech;
night unto night whispers knowledge.
4There is no speech, no words;[#: the regular functioning of the heavens and the alternation of day and night inform human beings without words of the creator’s power and wisdom.]
their voice is not heard;
5A report goes forth through all the earth,
their messages, to the ends of the world.
He has pitched in them a tent for the sun;
6it comes forth like a bridegroom from his canopy,
and like a hero joyfully runs its course.
7From one end of the heavens it comes forth;
its course runs through to the other;
nothing escapes its heat.
8The law of the Lord is perfect,
refreshing the soul.
The decree of the Lord is trustworthy,
giving wisdom to the simple.
9The precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eye.
10The fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever.
The statutes of the Lord are true,
all of them just;
11More desirable than gold,
than a hoard of purest gold,
Sweeter also than honey
or drippings from the comb.
12By them your servant is warned;[#: the Hebrew verb means both to shine and to warn, cf. Dn 12:3.]
obeying them brings much reward.
13Who can detect trespasses?
Cleanse me from my inadvertent sins.
14Also from arrogant ones restrain your servant;
let them never control me.
Then shall I be blameless,
innocent of grave sin.
15Let the words of my mouth be acceptable,
the thoughts of my heart before you,
Lord , my rock and my redeemer.