Psalms 2

1Why do the nations rage,

and the peoples plot a vain thing?

2The kings of the earth take a stand,

and the rulers take counsel together,

against the LORD, and against his Anointed,* saying,

3“Let’s break their bonds apart,

and cast their cords from us.”

4He who sits in the heavens will laugh.

The Lord* will have them in derision.

5Then he will speak to them in his anger,

and terrify them in his wrath:

6“Yet I have set my King on my holy hill of Zion.”

7I will tell of the decree:

The LORD said to me, “You are my son.

Today I have become your father.

8Ask of me, and I will give the nations for your inheritance,

the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession.

9You shall break them with a rod of iron.

You shall dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

10Now therefore be wise, you kings.

Be instructed, you judges of the earth.

11Serve the LORD with fear,

and rejoice with trembling.

12Give sincere homage to the Son,* lest he be angry, and you perish on the way,

for his wrath will soon be kindled.

Blessed are all those who take refuge in him.