1Why do nations assemble,and peoples plotaplot Lit. “utter.” vain things;
2kings of the earth take their stand,and regents intrigue togetheragainst the one anointed by GOD?bagainst the one anointed by GOD Lit. “against GOD and against His anointed one.”
3“Let us break the cords of their yoke,shake off their ropes from us!”
4The One who is enthroned in heaven laughs;my Sovereign mocks at them.
5Then [God] speaks to them in anger,terrifying them with divine rage,
6“But I have installed My kingon Zion, My holy mountain!”
7Let me tell of the decree: GOD said to me,“You are My son,I have fathered you this day.cYou are My son, / I have fathered you this day I.e., GOD agrees to provide the king with what fathers in the ancient Near East normally provide sons: ongoing protection and aid, in return for accountability. Compare 2 Sam. 7.14 and Ps. 89.27ff.
8Ask it of Me,and I will make the nations your domain;your estate, the limits of the earth.
9You can smash them with an iron mace,shatter them like potter’s ware.”
10So now, O kings, be prudent;accept discipline, you rulers of the earth!
11Serve GOD in awe;tremble with fright,dtremble with fright Meaning of Heb. uncertain; in contrast to others “rejoice with trembling.”
12pay homage in good faith,epay homage in good faith Meaning of Heb. uncertain. lest [God] be angered, and your way be doomedin the mere flash of divine anger.Happy are all who take refuge in [God].